Whirlpool Top Load Washer Not Draining? Test the Drain Pump

A Whirlpool washer that won’t drain or makes odd noises can quickly turn laundry day into a hassle. We’ll show you how to spot a failing drain pump, why it happens, and how to test and replace it—no costly service call is needed.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you need

• 1/4″ nut driver
• Channel locks
• Multimeter
• 8mm socket with a ratchet

Safety precautions

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to test and replace the Whirlpool washer’s drain pump

Step 1. Enter service diagnostic mode

1. Check the standpipe to confirm it is not clogged.
2. Inspect the drain hose for any blockages.
3. Examine the drain pump for obstructions or visible damage, such as a loose or broken impeller.

1. Select any three buttons on the control panel except the power button.
2. Within eight seconds, press and release the first button, then the second button, then the third button.
3. Repeat this process two more times.
4. Wait for all console indicators to illuminate for five seconds, with “888” appearing on the display.
5. Press and release the second button that was previously selected to enter service test mode.
6. Wait for all LEDs to turn off except for the power indicator while the start button begins flashing.

Step 2. Perform the drain pump test

1. Use the soil level button to increase function numbers.
2. Use the temperature button to decrease function numbers.
3. Select function 008 for the drain pump test.
4. Press the start button to activate the drain pump.

Step 3. Test the drain pump

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Tilt the washer backward to access the bottom panel.
2. Locate the drain pump on the right side at the bottom of the tub.
3. Set a multimeter to AC voltage (Vac) mode.
4. Place one multimeter lead on one wire of the drain pump and the other lead on the second wire.
5. Run the drain pump test while measuring voltage.
6. If 120V AC is present but the drain pump is not running, replace the pump.
7. If 120V AC is not present, inspect the wiring connections for damage or loose connections.

Step 4. Remove the faulty drain pump

1. Unplug the washer from the power outlet or turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Tilt the washer backward to access the bottom panel.
3. Use channel-lock pliers to loosen and remove the hose clamps securing the hoses to the drain pump.
4. Slide the hoses off the pump.
5. Use an 8mm socket or wrench to remove the screws securing the pump to the washer tub.
6. Disconnect the wiring harness from the drain pump.
7. Remove the old pump from the washer.

Step 5. Install the new drain pump

1. Place the new drain pump at the bottom of the tub in the same location.
2. Reinstall the 8mm screws to secure the pump in place.
3. Attach the hoses to the new pump.
4. Secure the hoses with the clamps using channel-lock pliers.
5. Plug the wiring harness into the new drain pump.
6. Carefully set the washer back in its upright position.
7. Plug the washer back into the power outlet or turn the circuit breaker back on.
8. Put the washer into service diagnostics mode again.
9. Run function 008 (Drain Pump Test) to confirm the new pump is working correctly.

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and swap out the drain pump in your Whirlpool washer. If you still need a replacement part, just grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com, where we have over two million parts ready to ship. Most orders arrive in just two business days! For help tracking down the right part, give us a call at 1 (877) 477-7278. While you’re waiting, check out our DIY blog and explore our video tutorials on YouTube. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram for all the latest tips and repair guides!