It’s never a good day when you open your washing machine to find water sitting stubbornly at the bottom. Whether it’s pooling after a wash or refusing to drain, standing water leaves clothes soggy and can even start to smell.
Knowing how to remove water quickly isn’t just convenient—it can help prevent mold, protect your appliance, and save you a headache. This article guides you through simple, effective steps to drain your washing machine safely and smoothly.
How to Remove Water from Your Washing Machine: A Step-By-Step Guide
A washing machine full of water that won’t drain can be an unexpected headache. Whether it’s a minor clog, a faulty part, or a temporary power outage, knowing how to safely remove water from your washer is essential for getting things back on track. Here, you’ll find a straightforward explanation of what to do, detailed steps for both front and top-load machines, practical troubleshooting tips, and the answers to common questions.
Why Won’t My Washing Machine Drain?
Before diving into the draining process, it helps to understand possible reasons for water remaining in your washer:
- A clogged or blocked drain hose
- A malfunctioning drain pump
- A jammed door or lid lock
- An electrical issue
- Overloaded or imbalanced laundry loads
Identifying the cause can make the process easier, but the critical first step is always safely removing the water to prevent further problems.
Draining Your Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break down the process into simple, manageable steps. Make sure to keep safety first—unplug any appliance before working on it.
What You’ll Need
- Bucket or large container
- Towels or old rags
- Flat pan or shallow bowl
- Screwdriver (optional)
- Work gloves (recommended)
1. Unplug Your Machine
Safety always comes first. Disconnect your washer from the power socket to avoid electrical hazards.
2. Access the Water
Depending on your machine type, the steps might differ slightly.
For Top-Load Machines:
- Lift the lid slowly.
- If water level is very high, skip to Step 3 directly.
- Sometimes, you may be able to bail out water immediately.
For Front-Load Machines:
- Open the washer’s door only if it’s safe and the water isn’t too high.
- Most front-load washers have a lower access panel or filter trap for manual draining.
3. Manually Remove the Water
The Bucket-and-Bowl Method
- Place towels around the base of your washer.
- Use a plastic container or cup to scoop water into your bucket.
- Pour water into a nearby sink or drain as you go.
- Keep going until you reach the bottom, tilting the drum gently if needed.
The Drain Hose Trick
- Locate the drain hose at the back of your machine.
- Place a bucket lower than the machine.
- Detach the hose and allow the water to flow out.
- Be prepared, as this can release a lot of water quickly.
- Pinching or kinking the hose after flow stops can help control drips.
4. Check for Clogs or Blockages
Once most of the water is out, check several key spots:
- Drain Pump Filter (Front-Load):
- Usually found at the machine’s lower front behind a small panel.
- Twist off the cap carefully, as residual water may escape.
- Clear away any lint, coins, hair, or debris stuck inside.
- Drain Hose:
- Run water through it or gently poke with a flexible wire to ensure it isn’t clogged.
- Pump Area:
- Shine a flashlight to look for foreign objects (socks, small items) blocking the pump.
5. Run a Spin or Drain Cycle
After removing water and any visible obstructions:
- Reconnect hoses securely.
- Plug the washer back in.
- Select a short drain or spin cycle to see if the machine now drains properly.
If the drum fills again or water remains, there may be a more serious issue requiring a professional repair.
Troubleshooting Tips and Practical Advice
Even after draining your washer, addressing the root cause is crucial. Here are some best practices:
Regular Maintenance
- Clean the drain pump filter every few months.
- Inspect hoses for bulges or cracks.
- Avoid overloading the washer.
Prevent Future Blockages
- Use mesh laundry bags for small items (socks, lingerie).
- Empty pockets before washing.
- Check that the drain hose isn’t kinked or crushed.
Watch for Warning Signs
- Unusual noises during the spin cycle.
- Slow draining or standing water after a wash.
- Error codes on digital displays (refer to your owner’s manual).
Addressing these symptoms early can prevent larger breakdowns.
Benefits of Promptly Draining Your Washer
Tackling standing water in your washing machine quickly offers several advantages:
- Prevents mold and mildew growth in your machine.
- Reduces the risk of flood or water damage to your laundry room.
- Ensures your clothes are properly cleaned and rinsed.
- Helps extend the lifespan of your appliance.
Challenges and When to Call a Professional
Some issues are tricky to solve alone. Contact a professional if:
- You notice leaking water or a broken pump.
- The washer makes loud banging or grinding noises.
- There’s a persistent or recurring error code.
- The machine remains full of water after several draining attempts.
Expert help ensures safety and protects your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my washer won’t drain due to a clog or a broken part?
A clog is likely if water remains and you see visible debris in the drain hose or filter. If the machine hums but doesn’t drain even after clearing blockages, you may have a faulty drain pump.
My washing machine door is locked and there’s water inside. What should I do?
For front-load washers, use the emergency unlock cord (usually inside the small access panel at the bottom) or run a drain/spin-only cycle. Unplugging and waiting may also reset the lock. Never force the door.
Can I use any hose or tubing to drain my washer manually?
It’s best to use the washer’s original drain hose, as other hoses might not fit securely, could leak, or may not be sanitary. Make sure your drain hose is flexible and unobstructed.
Is it safe to tip the washing machine to drain more water out?
You can tilt the washer slightly to help remaining water flow toward the front for removal, but never tip it on its side or upside-down. Large appliances can be heavy and shifting may damage internal parts.
How do I prevent water from flooding my floor during manual draining?
Lay several thick towels around the machine before you start. Drain slowly and use a shallow pan to catch initial surges. Keep your bucket or container on hand to switch out quickly when full.
Draining a washing machine by hand is a manageable DIY task with the right approach. Following these steps helps you stay safe, protect your appliance, and get back to clean laundry in no time. Keeping up with regular maintenance can minimize these issues in the future!