How To Drain A Washing Machine
If you've opened up your washing machine and found water still inside the tub, there's a pretty good chance that your machine has a clog, making it drain improperly. The good news is that you can drain the tub, find, and remove the clog all by yourself. See below for instructions to complete the task.
Here's What You'll Need:
- Screwdriver
- Bucket
- Towels
- Paint cans (or 2" x 4" pieces of wood)
- Hose clamp
- Needle nose pliers
Instructions:
- Begin by unplugging your washing machine, and then empty out the water left inside the tub. You can accomplish this using a bucket to bail the water out or by using the drain hose to empty the water. You can then drain the water to a drain nearby such as in a wash tub, sink, or toilet.
- Once you've removed as much water as possible, place a hose clamp on the drainage hose to prevent any further water from coming out.
- Now that the water is gone, prop up the front of the machine using either 2 x 4's or paint cans. Then, take the front of the machine off by removing the screws holding it in place.
- Once the inside panel is exposed, look at the pump to see if there is anything clogging it. If you see anything inside, such as a piece of clothing, remove it with the needle nose pliers. If you don't see anything in the pump, check the hose. If there isn't anything in either of these areas, the clog could be in the outlet at the bottom of the tub. You'll need the needle nose pliers to remove anything stuck in this area as well. Remove any clogs, and then put the washing machine back together.
- If you didn't see any clogs in any of these areas, the pump itself could be the problem and will need to be replaced. You can replace it yourself by finding the replacement part online or at a local washing machine repair parts shop. Remove the old pump carefully by taking out the screws and taking off the belt. Then, replace it with the new part. Or you can contact a processional repairman to do this part of the repair for you.
A washing machine that will not drain is usually due to a clog. Be sure to keep smaller clothing items (such as children's socks) in a wash bag to prevent them from getting sucked into the drain, and always check the pockets of clothing before placing them into the washer.