Why Your Washing Machine Won't Drain

Finding a pool of dirty water inside your washing machine drum means the appliance cannot expel water. This is almost always caused by a physical blockage in the drainage system, such as a clogged filter or kinked hose, or a failed drain pump.

The Drainage System Path

Water is pulled from the bottom of the drum, passed through a debris filter, and pushed out by the drain pump impeller. If a coin or hair grip bypasses the filter and jams the impeller, the pump cannot turn. Alternatively, if the external drain hose is crushed behind the machine, the pump will run but water cannot escape.

Common causes

  • Blocked filter trapping coins, lint, or hair grips
  • Kinked or blocked external drain hose
  • Pump impeller obstructed by a foreign object
  • Drain pump motor failure
  • Overfilled tub triggering a safety halt

Safe first checks

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Safety warning

If the water inside the drum is hot from a recent 60°C or 90°C wash, wait several hours for it to cool before attempting to drain it manually to prevent severe scalding.

When to stop and call a professional

If the filter is completely clear, the hoses are unkinked, but you hear a loud buzzing or grinding noise when the machine tries to empty, the drain pump has failed and needs replacing.

How this information is researched

Publisher: Error Code Lookup Editorial Team. Error Code Lookup is an independent appliance-information resource and is not affiliated with appliance manufacturers. Guidance is written in our own words and reviewed with safety boundaries in mind.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I manually drain the machine?

Yes. Most machines have a small emergency drain tube located next to the main filter behind the bottom plinth. Lower this tube into a shallow tray to slowly siphon the water out.

How do I clean the filter?

Once the machine is completely empty of water, unscrew the filter anti-clockwise. Wash it under a warm tap and remove any debris from the housing cavity before replacing it tightly.

Is it safe to open the door?

No. Modern machines lock the door if water is detected above a certain level to prevent flooding. You must drain the water manually before the safety interlock will release the door.