General owner-safe guideUpdated July 2026

Washing machine not draining

Water remains in the drum after the cycle, or the machine stops before the final spin.

Start herePause the cycle before checking the drain path.

Try these checks in order

Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.

  1. 1

    Remove a simple cycle issue

    Wait two minutes, then select Drain, Spin, or Cancel and Drain if your controls offer it. A paused or interrupted cycle can leave water behind.

    What you want: The pump starts and the water level falls.
  2. 2

    Check the drain hose

    Look behind the washer for a crushed, sharply bent, or frozen hose. Do not pull the machine farther than the hoses and cord allow.

    What you want: The hose has a smooth path to the drain.
  3. 3

    Check the standpipe height

    Confirm the hose is not pushed too far down the drain and is not sealed airtight. Use the installation guide for the correct height.

    What you want: The hose is secure but has an air gap.
  4. 4

    Reduce an unbalanced load

    If the drum is packed or one heavy item is on one side, remove some items and run Drain and Spin again.

    What you want: The load can move and balance.
  5. 5

    Clean only an owner-accessible filter

    Some front-load washers have a small pump filter behind a lower access door. Follow the exact model manual and prepare for water.

    What you want: Lint or a small object is removed and the cap seals correctly.

Stop and arrange help when

  • Water is leaking onto an outlet, cord, or control area.
  • There is a burning smell, smoke, or repeated breaker trip.
  • The filter or pump is not listed as owner-accessible in the manual.
  • The machine hums without draining after the visible path is clear.

If the problem remains

Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.