If you washing machine hasn’t fully drained the water after a washing cycle, there is a good chance that the drain hose is clogged or blocked.
Below, we’re going to talk you through removing the water from the washing machine and unblocking the drain hose. We’ll also talk you through how to unblock the drain filter and the drain pump just in case the blockage is there rather than in the drain hose.
Before attempting any maintenance or repairs, make sure the washing machine is unplugged to avoid any risk of electric shock.
How to Empty Water from Your Washing Machine
1. Locate the drain hose
The drain hose is usually located at the back of the washing machine, near the bottom. It is connected to a drain pump or a drain filter.
2. Grab a container
Place a shallow container or a bucket near the washing machine to catch the water. You’ll need this to collect the water that comes out of the drain hose.
3. Remove the drain hose
Carefully detach the drain hose from the drain pump or the drain filter. Be prepared for some water to spill out initially. If there is a clamp holding the hose in place, loosen this to detach the hose.
4. Remove the water
Position the end of the drain hose over the container or bucket you’ve placed nearby.
Gravity should allow the water to flow out of the hose and into the container.
If the water doesn’t start flowing, you might need to gently squeeze or massage the hose to help dislodge any blockages.
5. Clean the drain hose
Once the water has drained, this is a good time to clean the drain hose and remove any blockages that may remain in the pipe.
You can leave the drain hose in the sink with some washing-up liquid and warm water.
Leave it to soak for half an hour, and then rinse out the drain hose with warm water from the tap.
6. Reinstall the drain hose
Once clean, reinstall the drain hose, turn your washing machine on and run a short cycle.
If a blockage in the hose was the cause of your issue, the washing machine should drain correctly now. If the blockage is in the drain pump or filter, follow the steps below.
How to Fix a Blocked Drain Pump or Filter
In some cases, your washing machine might have a drain pump or a drain filter that could be clogged. If you suspect this is the issue, follow these steps:
1. Locate the drain pump and filter
Refer to your washing machine’s user manual to locate the drain pump or filter. You can usually find the user manual on the manufacturers website if you don’t have a copy at home.
However, if you’ve already followed the steps for removing the drain hose, the placement of the drain pump should be fairly obvious.
The drain hose you removed in the steps above is attached to the drain pump and filter. You may need to gain more access to these by removing a panel, but, in some case, there is no need to remove any panels.
2. Remove the blockage
Remove the drain hose from the pump. Be prepared for water to come out when you remove it. Placing a towel on the floor will help keep the water at bay.
Check the drain pump or filter for any debris or blockages. Clean out any lint, coins, or other objects that might be causing the blockage.
If the filter or pump is particularly dirty, this is a good time to clean it out. Use a mild detergent for this.
3. Reassemble
After the water has been emptied and any blockages have been cleared, reattach the drain hose to the washing machine and secure it in place.
If you removed a panel to access the filter or pump, make sure it’s properly sealed.
4. Test
Plug the washing machine back in and run a short cycle to make sure the water drains properly now.
If the problem persists, you might need to consult the manufacturer’s manual or call for professional repair assistance. This may indicate that the drain pump is malfunctioning and it may need to be replaced.
In Conclusion
Now you know how to empty a washing machine that is full of water and to remove a blockage from the drain hose and filter/pump.
Remember, if you’re not comfortable with these steps or if the issue is more complex, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
For more advice on repairing your washing machine, explore In The Wash further. We have loads of articles about simple repairs to washing machines that can help you keep your washing machine in good working order.
If your washing machine needs to be replaced, we also have articles about the best washing machines available in the UK right now too.
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