How to Fix a Washer That Doesn't Drain Before the Spin Cycle

When you open the washing machine lid and discover it full of water, it means it didn't drain before the spin cycle. You may be confronted with a tub full of sopping wet clothes at an inconvenient time, but don't panic and call a repairman. Chances are the trouble is with the drain hose or the pump and you can fix it yourself with just a few simple tools.

Instructions

1. Look at the drain hose to make sure it isn't kinked or clogged. If there is a piece of clothing lodged in there, clear away the hose from the pump and yank the clothing out.

2. Take a look at the switch under the lid of the washing machine. If it doesn't click when you press it, it may be broken and the washer may stop during the drain cycle. Call a repairman to repair or replace the switch.

3. Examine the clothes tub and the outer tub of the washer for anything that may be stuck in there.

4. Open the main access panel of the washer and take out the large rubber hose connecting the pump to the lower part of the outer tub.

5. Check to see if there is a piece of clothing stuck in there. If so, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grab the clothing and pull it through the port. If it is difficult to reach, you will need to take out the agitator, the top part of the outer cylinder, and the interior tub to grab it. Unless you have special skills and tools, you may want to call a repairman.

6. Inspect the pump for a clog or frozen pulley. To check if the pulley is broken or frozen, take the pump out and attempt to turn it manually with your hands. If it's stiff or appears frozen, install a new pump.

7. Call a repairman if these steps don't work.

Tips & Warnings

• Unplug the machine before attempting any do-it-yourself repair.