Whirlpool washer draining dilemma: the 5 surprising culprits you never suspected

A malfunctioning washing machine can be a frustrating inconvenience, especially when it refuses to drain properly. If your Whirlpool washer is leaving your clothes soaking wet, it’s time to investigate the root cause. Here are some potential reasons why your washer may not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose is responsible for carrying wastewater from the washer to the drainpipe. If it becomes clogged with lint, debris, or other objects, it can prevent water from flowing out. Check the drain hose for any blockages and remove any obstructions you find.

Malfunctioning Drain Pump

The drain pump is the heart of the washer’s drainage system. It pumps water out of the tub and into the drain hose. If the pump is not working properly, it may not be able to remove water from the washer. Test the drain pump by running the washer on a spin cycle without any clothes in it. If you don’t hear the pump running, it may be faulty and need to be replaced.

Clogged Drain Filter

Some Whirlpool washers have a drain filter that traps lint and other debris. If the filter becomes clogged, it can prevent water from draining. Locate the drain filter, usually at the bottom of the washer, and clean it by removing any accumulated debris.

Faulty Lid Switch

The lid switch is a safety feature that prevents the washer from operating when the lid is open. If the lid switch is malfunctioning, it may not be able to detect when the lid is closed, causing the washer to stop draining. Inspect the lid switch for any damage or loose connections.

Kinked Drain Hose

A kinked drain hose can restrict water flow and prevent the washer from draining properly. Check the drain hose for any bends or kinks and straighten it out if necessary.

Blocked Vent Pipe

The vent pipe allows air to enter the washer’s drain system. If the vent pipe becomes blocked, it can create a vacuum that prevents water from draining. Check the vent pipe for any obstructions and clear them if necessary.

Faulty Water Level Sensor

The water level sensor detects the amount of water in the washer and signals the washer to stop filling when the water reaches the desired level. If the water level sensor is not working properly, it may not detect when the washer is full and allow too much water to enter, causing the washer to overflow and not drain properly.

Wrapping Up

If you’ve checked all the potential causes and your Whirlpool washer is still not draining, it may be time to call a professional appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs to get your washer back up and running.

Questions You May Have

Q: Why is my Whirlpool washer draining slowly?
A: A slow-draining washer could be caused by a partially clogged drain hose, drain filter, or vent pipe. Cleaning these components may resolve the issue.

Q: What are the signs of a faulty drain pump?
A: A faulty drain pump may not produce any noise when the washer is running on a spin cycle. It may also cause the washer to stop draining completely.

Q: How can I reset my Whirlpool washer‘s drain cycle?
A: To reset the drain cycle, unplug the washer from the power outlet, wait a few minutes, and then plug it back in. This should reset the washer’s control panel and allow you to restart the drain cycle.

Q: Can I use a drain cleaner to unclog the drain hose?
A: Using drain cleaner in a washing machine is not recommended as it can damage the internal components. It’s best to use a physical method to remove clogs, such as a drain snake or a wet/dry vacuum.

Q: How often should I clean the drain filter in my Whirlpool washer?
A: The frequency of drain filter cleaning depends on how often you use the washer and the amount of lint and debris it collects. It’s recommended to clean the drain filter every few months or as needed.