Quick answer
A washer that will not drain usually has a clogged drain pump filter, a kinked or blocked drain hose, or a failed drain pump. Coins, socks and lint cause most clogs. Run a drain and spin cycle, check the filter and the hose, and if the water stays, call a technician. Appliance Repair Philly repairs washers across Philadelphia, and the diagnostic is $60 flat, credited toward the repair.
Check these first
- Try the drain and spin cycle. Many washers have a “drain” or “spin only” option. Run it and listen for the pump.
- Check the display. Error codes narrow down the cause: LG shows OE, Samsung shows 5C, 5E or SC, Whirlpool and Maytag front loaders show F21, and Bosch shows E18 or E19.
- Look at the drain hose. Pull the washer forward a little and look for a kink behind it. Straighten any bend.
- Check the standpipe. If the hose is pushed too far into the standpipe, or the pipe is partly blocked, water backs up. The hose should rest loose in the pipe, not sealed tight.
- Reduce the load. An overloaded washer can fail to drain or spin.
Clean the drain pump filter (front load washers)
Most front load washers have a small access door at the bottom front corner. The filter catches coins, hair pins, buttons and lint before the pump.
- Unplug the washer.
- Lay down towels and put a shallow baking dish or a flat tray under the filter. Water will come out.
- Open the small drain hose if there is one, and let the water out into the tray.
- Unscrew the filter counterclockwise and pull it out.
- Remove debris, rinse the filter, and check the pump opening for blockages.
- Put the filter back in firmly. A loose filter will leak.
Do this once every few months. Do not open a washer that still has water in the drum without draining the water first.
Top load washers
Top loaders do not have a user filter. The drain pump or a clogged hose is usually behind the cabinet. On some top loaders, a lid switch or a coin trap in the pump causes the problem. A technician can access the pump quickly.
Likely causes
| Cause | What to notice |
|---|---|
| Clogged drain pump filter | Slow drain, standing water, gurgle, items like coins in the filter |
| Clogged or kinked drain hose | Water drains slowly or backs up out of the standpipe |
| Failed drain pump | Humming or buzzing with no water moving, or complete silence |
| Blocked household drain | Other sinks or the laundry tub also drain slowly |
| Lid switch or door lock problem | Washer will not start the drain or spin cycle |
| Control board | Drain command never reaches the pump (rare) |
If the standpipe or the household drain is slow, the washer is not the problem. A plumber should clear the line. Older Philadelphia homes with cast iron or clay drain lines can clog in the main line.
What the technician does
The technician checks the error code, tests the pump for power and for resistance, inspects the filter and hose, and runs a drain test. A blockage is cleared on the spot. A failed pump is usually replaced in the same visit if the part is on the truck.
What it costs
| Fault | Typical total with part |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic | $60 flat, credited to the repair |
| Clear a clog, clean the filter | $100 to $180 |
| Drain pump replacement | $180 to $320 |
| Lid switch or door lock | $150 to $280 |
| Control board | $250 to $450 |
Repair or replace
Under 8 years old, always repair a pump or a clog. At 10 to 13 years, a drain pump is still a reasonable repair if nothing else is failing. See the cost guide.
How it works
- Call or send the brand, model and the error code.
- Call to check the next open appointment; availability depends on the schedule.
- Diagnosis and a clear price. The $60 is credited if you go ahead.
- Repair and test. Ask what the repair includes when you book.
More on the whole appliance: washer repair. Related: washer not spinning, dryer repair. We come to Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Bensalem, Willow Grove, Abington, Huntingdon Valley, Southampton and Feasterville-Trevose.
FAQ
Why is my washer full of water and not draining?
A clogged filter or hose, or a failed drain pump. Run a drain and spin cycle, and check the filter on a front loader.
How do I drain a washer by hand?
Unplug it, place towels and a tray, then open the small drain hose near the filter and let the water out. Never open the door with a lot of water inside.
What does the OE code mean on an LG washer?
It means the washer cannot drain in the allowed time. Check the filter, the hose and the pump.
How much does it cost to fix a washer that will not drain?
Most repairs are $100 to $320. A clog is cheaper, a pump costs more.
Can I use my washer if it will not drain?
No. Do not run cycles with standing water. It can overflow and soak the floor.