Washer Not Draining? Here’s What to Check Before Calling a Plumber

Washer Not Draining? Start Here

You load up the laundry, hit start, and come back to find your washer still full of water. Annoying, but not hopeless. A washer not draining is one of the most common issues homeowners face, and the fix can range from a quick DIY job to a full plumbing repair.

At Precise Plumbing and Heating, we’ve handled every kind of washing machine drain problem (from clogged hoses to faulty pumps and everything in between) and we know the difference between something you can fix yourself and something that needs professional attention. Here’s how to tell which is which.

Step 1: Check for a Clog in the Washing Machine Drain

If your clothes washer won’t drain, the most common reason is a blockage in the drain hose or pump filter. Over time, lint, coins, or other small items from pockets can clog the system.

Here’s how to check it safely:

1. Unplug your washer.
2. Pull it away from the wall to reach the washing machine drain hose.
3. Look for any kinks or sharp bends. Straighten them out if needed.
4. Detach the hose and inspect for clogs. A wet/dry vacuum can help clear debris effectively.

If you see water sitting inside the hose or backing up during draining, the problem might be deeper in your home’s plumbing line. In that case, it’s time to call a professional drain cleaning service. Precise Plumbing and Heating handles full washing machine drain clearings using the right tools to remove buildup without damaging your lines.

Step 2: Inspect the Drain Pump

If the hose is clear, the next suspect is the drain pump. Most washers have a small pump that pushes water out through the drain line. If it’s jammed or broken, the washer won’t drain properly.

Look for these signs:

• A humming sound when the machine tries to drain
• Water sitting at the bottom after the spin cycle
• Visible debris inside the pump filter

If your pump is clogged, cleaning it might get you back in business. But if it’s burned out, you’ll need a replacement. This is where professional service matters. Our technicians at Precise can diagnose and replace a bad pump quickly, so you’re not stuck waiting on laundry day.

Step 3: Test the Lid Switch or Door Lock

Modern washers have safety switches that stop the cycle when the lid or door isn’t fully latched. If the switch fails, the washer won’t drain even if everything else works fine.

You can test it by closing the lid and listening for a click. If you don’t hear it, or if your machine doesn’t respond when you press “start,” the switch may need repair.

Our plumbing and appliance experts often see this issue in homes where washers get heavy use. It’s a small fix that can save a lot of frustration and water cleanup.

Step 4: Check the Washing Machine Drain Hose Extension

If you’ve recently moved your washer or remodeled your laundry room, the washing machine drain hose extension might be installed incorrectly.

Make sure the hose:

• Sits at the right height (about 30 inches above the floor)
• Isn’t pushed too far down the standpipe
• Has a secure but not airtight fit

An improper hose setup can cause poor draining or even backflow. If you’re unsure how to position it correctly, Precise can help you adjust it to meet code and manufacturer specs.

Step 5: Rule Out a Plumbing Backup

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the washer at all…it’s actually your home’s plumbing. If multiple fixtures (like your sink or tub) drain slowly, you might have a main line clog. This can cause your washing machine drain to back up even when the washer is working fine.

In that case, a professional drain cleaning service is the answer. Our team uses precision-grade equipment to clear the line, not temporary fixes. It’s one of the reasons customers across Utah trust Precise for long-term solutions instead of quick patches.

When to Call a Professional

You can handle small clogs or hose adjustments on your own. But if you’ve gone through these steps and your washer still won’t drain, don’t keep forcing it. That can burn out your pump or overflow the drain line.

Call Precise Plumbing and Heating if:

• You hear grinding or buzzing during the drain cycle
• Water backs up into nearby drains
• You’ve tried clearing the hose with no success
• You suspect a plumbing issue beyond the washer

We’ll send a licensed technician to diagnose the problem, clear any drain blockages, and make sure your washer and plumbing are both running as they should.

How Precise Handles Drain Problems

We don’t guess. We find the cause and fix it right the first time. Our drain cleaning process includes:

• Camera inspection to locate clogs
• Hydro jetting or snaking to remove buildup
• Checking the full line for proper slope and flow

Because we handle everything from plumbing to remodel work, we can fix any underlying issues, whether it’s a poorly installed line, a drain that was never vented correctly, or any other unexpected thing that might arise.

And if your washing area needs a plumbing upgrade or relocation, our remodel and construction team can reroute the system cleanly and efficiently.

Keep Your Washer Draining Smoothly

To prevent future problems:

• Run a cleaning cycle once a month
• Empty pockets before washing
• Avoid overloading the drum
• Keep the washing machine drain hose clear and positioned correctly

A little maintenance goes a long way. But when problems happen, you don’t need guesswork. You need precision.

Trust the Team That Gets It Right the First Time

At Precise Plumbing and Heating, we’ve built our reputation on doing things the right way, not the easy way. Whether it’s a washer not draining, a clogged line, or a full plumbing repair, we show up prepared and finish the job with care and accuracy.

Don’t let a drain issue flood your laundry day. Schedule your service with Precise Plumbing and Heating today.