An overflowing washing machine isn’t the only unpleasant surprise that can occur when you’re doing laundry. Finding a sopping wet pile of clothes as you’re about to transfer a load to the dryer is rather unpleasant, but it happens all too often.
What should you do if your washing machine isn’t draining properly?
Usually the problem is with the washing machine itself, though it can be caused by a clogged drainage tub.
Problems with the Washing Machine
If the issue is the machine, it’s likely a drain tube clog or a bad pump. If the drain tube is clogged the water will have nowhere to go. To test for a drain clog problem, remove the drain tube and see if it’s clear by blowing air through it. If there are no obstructions, the issue is likely the pump.
If the pump isn’t working, water cannot eject from the machine at the end of the cycle. A plumber can help you repair the pump if you think that’s the problem.
Problems with the Drain
In some cases, the problem will be outside of the washing machine entirely. If you have a clog in your drain, you’ll likely notice water flooding onto the floor whenever you do laundry. If the problem is the pump or drainage tube, you’re unlikely to have flooding. In this case, clearing the drain will likely resolve the problem.
Though clearing a washing machine clog isn’t the messiest of plumbing jobs, most homeowners lack the equipment to ensure a complete clog clear. In some cases, you’ll need a fairly long snake to clear the drain.
The good news is most washing machine drainage issues can be alleviated without buying an all new washing machine. It just takes a bit of trial and error to determine what’s causing the problem, and then calling a plumber to fix whatever issue you find.
If you need help with a washing machine that won’t drain or you have questions about a problem with your washer, give us a call!