Washing Machine Drains Slowly? Here’s How to Fix It

A washing machine that drains slowly can be a frustrating issue, leaving your clothes wet and increasing the time you spend doing laundry. Fortunately, slow drainage is often caused by common, fixable issues that don’t require professional repair. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and fixing a washer that drains slowly.

1. Check for Drain Hose Blockages

One of the most common causes of slow drainage is a blocked or kinked drain hose. The drain hose allows water to exit the washing machine and flow into the drain, so any obstruction can slow down or stop the flow.

How to Check and Fix the Drain Hose:

Turn Off the Power: Unplug the washing machine or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
Inspect the Hose: Look for any visible kinks, twists, or blockages in the drain hose. If it’s kinked, straighten it out.
Disconnect the Hose: If there’s a suspected blockage, disconnect the hose from the washing machine. You may need a bucket to catch any water that drains out.
Flush the Hose: Run water through the hose to clear any debris. If there’s a clog, use a flexible brush to remove it.
Reconnect the Hose: After clearing any obstructions, reattach the hose and ensure it’s properly connected to the drain pipe.

2. Clean the Lint Filter or Coin Trap

Many washing machines have a lint filter or coin trap that catches lint, coins, and other small debris that could clog the drainage system. If these filters get clogged, they can slow down drainage.

How to Clean the Lint Filter or Coin Trap:

Locate the Filter: Refer to your washing machine’s manual to find the location of the lint filter or coin trap, usually at the bottom front of the machine.
Remove and Clean the Filter: Open the filter compartment and carefully remove the filter. Use a brush or warm water to clear away lint, coins, and any other debris.
Replace the Filter: Once cleaned, place the filter back in its compartment securely.

3. Inspect the Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the machine and into the drain. If the pump is blocked or malfunctioning, it can lead to slow drainage or prevent draining altogether.

How to Check the Drain Pump:

Turn Off the Power: Unplug the machine to ensure your safety.
Access the Drain Pump: Depending on the model, you may need to remove the back or front panel of the washing machine. Refer to your manual for guidance.
Check for Obstructions: Look inside the pump for any obstructions, such as lint, small clothing items, or debris. Carefully remove any blockages you find.
Listen for Unusual Noises: A humming or buzzing sound from the pump can indicate that it’s jammed or damaged. If the pump motor is not functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced.

Tip: If you’re uncomfortable accessing the drain pump, consider calling a professional technician.

4. Check the Standpipe or House Drain

If your washing machine connects to a standpipe or house drain, blockages in these areas can also cause slow drainage. The standpipe is the vertical pipe that the drain hose empties into.

How to Unblock the Standpipe or House Drain:

Inspect for Blockages: Check if water drains out of the standpipe freely. If it’s backed up, there may be a clog in the pipe itself.
Use a Drain Cleaner or Snake: If you suspect a blockage in the standpipe, use a drain cleaner or a plumber’s snake to remove any clogs. Be careful with chemical cleaners, as some can damage pipes.
Call a Plumber: If you’re unable to clear the blockage, you may need to call a plumber to address a clogged house drain.

5. Test the Water Pump Belt (For Belt-Driven Models)

Some washing machines have a water pump belt that drives the drain pump. If this belt is worn or broken, the pump may not function properly, leading to slow drainage.

How to Check the Pump Belt:

Unplug the Washer: Disconnect the washing machine from its power source.
Access the Belt: Depending on the model, you may need to remove the back panel to access the belt.
Inspect the Belt: Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or looseness. If the belt appears damaged or worn out, it will need to be replaced.
Replace the Belt: If the belt is the problem, you can replace it yourself if you’re comfortable with repairs, or call a technician for assistance.

6. Ensure Proper Drain Height and Position

The height and position of the drain hose can impact drainage speed. If the hose is too high, it can create too much pressure for the pump to overcome, leading to slow drainage.

How to Adjust the Drain Hose Position:

Check the Height: The drain hose should ideally be 30-40 inches above the floor, as recommended by most manufacturers.
Position the Hose Correctly: Avoid submerging the drain hose deeply into the standpipe. Ensure that it’s inserted no more than 4-6 inches into the drain to allow for proper ventilation.
Secure the Hose: Use a clamp or zip tie to secure the hose and prevent it from moving during operation.

7. Run a Maintenance Wash

Running a maintenance wash can help remove detergent, fabric softener, and mineral build-up that can clog internal parts over time.

How to Run a Maintenance Wash:

Add Cleaning Agents: Pour two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner into the drum.
Run a Hot Cycle: Set the machine to run a hot water cycle without any laundry. The hot water and cleaning agents will help dissolve any residue that could be slowing down the drainage process.
Repeat as Necessary: If you haven’t run a maintenance wash in a while, repeat this process every 1-2 months to keep your washer clean and running efficiently.

Conclusion

A washing machine that drains slowly is often due to blockages in the drain hose, filter, or pump. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve most drainage issues without professional assistance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter and running periodic maintenance washes, will help prevent slow drainage problems in the future and keep your washing machine running smoothly.