Whirlpool Washer won't drain: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

Occasionally, tiny objects or items of clothing can become trapped in the drain pump. To find out if something is blocking the drain pump, take it out and inspect it for any obstacles. If the drain pump is free from blockages but continues to make noise when draining, it's advisable to replace the drain pump.

How to Replace Washing Machine Drain Pump

1. Unplug washing machine. Locate the plug on the back of the machine and disconnect from power source to prevent electric shock.

2. Remove access panel. Find panel that provides access to internal components, usually on the bottom front of the machine. Lift panel off after removing any retaining screws.
3. Disconnect drain hose. Detach hose from old pump and drain remaining water from hose into a bucket. Apply clamp if needed to prevent additional water escaping.
4. Remove retaining bolts. Identify and loosen bolts or screws securing pump in place using appropriate tool like screwdriver or wrench.
5. Remove old pump. Slide out old pump taking care not to damage surrounding components. Check area for any worn Whirlpool washers or seals in need of replacement as well.
6. Install new pump. Line up and insert replacement pump into location. Secure with the retaining bolts removed earlier.
7. Reconnect drain hose. Attach drain hose to new pump outlet, push firmly into place.
8. Replace access panel. Position panel over opening and secure with any screws.
9. Test operation. Reconnect power and run short cycle without laundry to check for leaks from connections. Fix any issues before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

The washing machine control board is responsible for supplying power to the electrical parts of the Whirlpool washer. If there is a problem with the board, it may not be sending power to the drain pump when the Whirlpool washer is draining. You can check the board for any signs of burning or damaged components. Additionally, you can use a multimeter to test if power is reaching the drain pump by referring to the appliance's wiring diagram. If you find that there is no voltage when the Whirlpool washer is in the drain cycle, it probably means that the control board is faulty and needs to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect the power cord before servicing to prevent electric shock.

2. Open the control panel. The control board is located behind the control panel on the Whirlpool washer front.

3. Label connections. Take note of where each wire and connector is attached to the control board.

4. Disconnect wires. Carefully detach all wiring harnesses and connectors from the board.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the control board.

6. Remove control board. Carefully pull the control board free from the Whirlpool washer once all wires are detached.

7. Install new control board. Align the replacement board into position and insert mounting screws.

8. Reconnect wires. Attach all wiring harnesses and connectors to the matching terminals on the new board.

9. Close control panel. Carefully close the control panel once the new board is installed.

10. Restore power. Plug in the washing machine and test operation.

11. Program control board. You may need to program or configure the new control board if it doesn't operate correctly.

12. Test cycles. Run short test cycles to verify the Whirlpool washer is functioning properly before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

In some washing machine models, a timer is used to determine the appropriate timing for supplying voltage to the electrical parts of the Whirlpool washer. If the timer is faulty, it may fail to send power to the drain pump when the Whirlpool washer is draining. To identify this issue, you can examine the timer for any indications of burning or damaged components. You can also use a multimeter to assess if power is reaching the drain pump by referring to the appliance's wiring diagram. If you discover that there is no voltage present when the Whirlpool washer is in the drain cycle, it is probable that the timer is defective and necessitates replacement.

How to Replace Washing Machine Timer

1. Shut off power. Turn off electricity to the Whirlpool washer at the circuit breaker or unplug it before servicing electrical components.

2. Remove outer panel. Detach any outer covers or casings blocking access to the timer module inside using a screwdriver.

3. Disconnect wires. Note the wire colors and locations before disconnecting all electrical wires from the old timer terminals.

4. Remove mounting screws. A few screws typically secure the timer module to the inside of the Whirlpool washer cabinet. Remove them.

5. Withdraw old timer. Once fully detached from wires and frame, gently lift out the old timer control module straight away.

6. Insert new timer. Set the replacement module into the vacant space, aligning any mounting holes if present.

7. Reattach wires. Reconnect each wire to the properly colored terminal on the new timer, referring to notes if needed.

8. Refasten module. Replace the mounting screws to securely fix the timer into position inside the Whirlpool washer.

9. Refit covers. Slide outer panels back into place to conceal repairs before restoring power.

10. Test washing cycles. Run various cycles to ensure the new timer is functioning normally.

Repair Instructions:

If a top-load Whirlpool washer fails to complete a cycle and also doesn't drain, it's possible that a broken suspension rod is causing the tub to become unbalanced, resulting in improper spinning or agitation. Take a close look at the suspension rods to check for any signs of damage, and if needed, replace them. It is advisable to replace all suspension rods at the same time.

How to Replace Washing Machine Suspension Rod

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power source. This ensures the washing machine will not start during the repair.

2. Tip the washing machine back. Carefully tip the washing machine back to access the bottom panel. You may need assistance to prevent the machine from tipping over.

3. Remove the bottom panel. The bottom panel is usually held in place by screws along the bottom edge. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and detach the panel.

4. Locate the suspension rod. The rod will extend from the washing machine tub to the base. Identify which suspension rod needs replacing.

5. Remove the retaining clips. Use pliers to detach the retaining clips or rings holding the suspension rod in place.

6. Slide out the old rod. Carefully slide out the old rod from the washing machine tub and base. You may need to wiggle it side to side to detach it.

7. Install the new rod. Slide the new suspension rod into place, inserting it into the tub and base.

8. Secure with retaining clips. Reattach any retaining clips or rings to hold the new rod firmly in place.

9. Replace the bottom panel. Line up the bottom panel and screw it back into place along the bottom edge.

10. Return the washing machine to upright position. Carefully tip the washing machine back to an upright position.

11. Plug washing machine back in. Reconnect the power source so the washing machine is ready to use.

12. Test it out. Run a test cycle with no clothes to verify the washing machine is functioning properly before using again.

Repair Instructions:

The lid switch assembly plays an important role in preventing the Whirlpool washer from spinning when the lid is open. If the lid switch assembly malfunctions, it can lead to a failure in draining. To check if the lid switch assembly is faulty, you can use a multimeter to test the continuity of the lid switch. If a lid switch does not show continuity, it indicates a defect, and it should be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Lid Switch Assembly

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect the machine from the power source. This will prevent electric shock.

2. Open the lid. Prop the washing machine lid fully open.

3. Locate the switch. The lid switch assembly is on the front panel of the Whirlpool washer. Identify the specific location.

4. Remove switch mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach any screws securing the switch assembly.

5. Disconnect wiring. Carefully disconnect the wiring harness or connectors attached to the switch.

6. Remove switch assembly. With the screws and wiring detached, you can now fully remove the lid switch assembly.

7. Install new switch. Carefully align the new lid switch assembly into the opening on the Whirlpool washer front panel.

8. Reconnect wiring. Attach the wiring harness or connectors to the corresponding terminals on the new switch.

9. Remount the switch. Insert and tighten the mounting screws to secure the new lid switch assembly in place.

10. Test operation. Plug in the Whirlpool washer and open/close the lid to verify proper switch operation before regular use.

11. Reattach panel. If accessing from inside the cabinet, reattach the metal panel covering the lid switch assembly.

12. Restore power. Plug the washing machine back in and make sure it is functioning properly.

Repair Instructions:

The main control board of a washing machine is responsible for supplying power to most of its electrical components. If this board is faulty, it may fail to send power to the drain pump during the drain cycle. You can examine the board for indications of burning or damaged components. Additionally, by using a multimeter and referring to the appliance's wiring diagram, you can test if power is reaching the drain pump. If you find that there is no voltage present when the Whirlpool washer is in the drain cycle, it is highly likely that the control board is defective and should be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Main Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect power to prevent electric shock.

2. Open control panel. Unscrew the control panel on the Whirlpool washer to access interior.

3. Locate control board. The main control board is mounted to the cabinet interior.

4. Label wire connections. Note where each wire harness connects to the control board.

5. Disconnect wires. Detach all wire harnesses from the terminals on the control board.

6. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove screws securing control board.

7. Remove control board. Carefully detach old control board from the Whirlpool washer.

8. Install new control board. Align replacement board and reinsert mounting screws.

9. Reconnect wires. Attach all wire harnesses to proper terminals on new control board.

10. Close control panel. Carefully close and screw the control panel back on.

11. Restore power. Plug in washing machine and test operation.

12. Program control board. You may need to program the new control board if needed.

Repair Instructions:

Occasionally, small items or items of clothing may become stuck in the water pump, causing it to be unable to remove water from the tub through the drain hose. To check if there is any blockage in the water pump, you need to remove the pump and inspect it for any obstructions. If the water pump is free from blockages, but you still hear unusual noises during the drain cycle, it is advisable to replace the pump.

How to Replace Washing Machine Water Pump

1. Shut off water supply. Turn off valves where supply hoses attach to prevent flooding during the repair.

2. Disconnect hoses. Use pliers to detach hoses from the pump housing inlet and outlet ports.

3. Remove mounting bolts. Access and loosen the bolts or screws securing the pump inside the Whirlpool washer cabinet.

4. Withdraw pump housing. Gently rock and lift the water pump housing upwards once mounting bolts are disengaged.

5. Inspect impeller. Check that the plastic or rubber impeller inside is not cracked or jammed before installing replacement.

6. Put in new pump. Position the replacement pump where the old one sat inside the machine cabinet.

7. Reattach securely. Replace all mounting bolts removed earlier and hand-tighten to secure the new pump.

8. Reconnect hoses. Attach the water inlet and outlet hoses to the correct ports on the pump housing.

9. Bleed air from lines. Turn the water supply back on and run the pump to bleed any trapped air from reconnected lines.

10. Test for leaks. Check all hose connections for leaks before operating the Whirlpool washer.

Repair Instructions:

Inspect the drain hose for any signs of being kinked, twisted, or bent. If you notice any bending, straighten it to allow proper functioning. Furthermore, it is advisable to detach the drain hose and carefully examine it for any blockages. If there are any obstructions present, please attempt to remove them. If you encounter difficulties in clearing the obstructions, it may be necessary to replace the drain hose altogether.

How to Replace Washing Machine Drain Hose

1. Shut off water supply. Turn off the valves where supply hoses attach to prevent flooding.

2. Disconnect old hose. Detach the drainage hose from both the outlet port on the pump and the hose exiting the machine.

3. Inspect hose clamp. Check the hose clamp is in good condition and replace if needed to securely hold the new hose.

4. Attach new hose. Connect one end of the replacement drain hose to the water pump outlet port using the hose clamp.

5. Route new hose. Feed the free end of the new drain hose through its exit point from the machine cabinet.

6. Connect to standpipe. Secure the other end of the drain hose to the standpipe or drainage pipe where washing water expels.

7. Test connection. Turn water supply back on and check for leaks around the newly installed drain hose connections.

8. Secure hose routing. Use zip ties to fasten the hose along its path inside the machine cabinet to prevent kinking.

9. Run test cycle. Try a drain-only cycle to ensure water empties completely through the new drain hose.

10. Inspect work. Check all hose connections again after the test to ensure they remain tight and free of leaks.

Repair Instructions:

Certain washing machines have a coin trap, which helps catch any foreign objects that might enter the drain. It's important to regularly inspect and clean the coin trap to make sure its properly functioning. If debris consistently builds up in the coin trap, it can become blocked and prevent the Whirlpool washer from draining effectively. If you're experiencing drainage issues or if the Whirlpool washer fails to drain correctly, and your particular model includes a coin trap, it's recommended to remove the coin trap and give it a thorough cleaning.

How to Replace Washing Machine Coin Trap

1. Disconnect power. Turn off the breaker or unplug the Whirlpool washer before accessing internal components.

2. Remove outer panels. Detach any outer cabinet covers securing them with screws to access the trap inside.

3. Locate trap bolts. The coin trap mounts to the machine body and is held by bolts or screws.

4. Detach bolts. Use a wrench or screwdriver to remove all hardware retaining the old trap in place.

5. Remove trap. Once fully unbolted, grasp and lift out the worn coin trap from its position inside.

6. Clean mounting area. Wipe away any debris from the Whirlpool washer body where the new trap will mount.

7. Set new trap in. Position the replacement trap over its mounting point so bolt holes line up correctly.

8. Secure firmly. Replace all mounting bolts and tighten them fully to fix the new coin trap securely in position.

9. Test operation. Load coins or tokens and run a cycle to ensure they are accepted and trapped properly.

10. Refit covers. Slide cabinet panels back into place and restore power before using again.

Repair Instructions:

The door latch is responsible for securely closing the Whirlpool washer door during operation. Once the door is properly shut, the Whirlpool washer can start working. If the Whirlpool washer door is not latched shut, the door switch will prevent the Whirlpool washer from operating. If there's a problem with the door latch, the Whirlpool washer will not spin or drain. The door latch can fail either mechanically or electrically. Check the door latch for any signs of damage. If the latch is damaged or doesn't close correctly, it should be replaced. To check if the door latch has an electrical issue, you can use a multimeter to test the switches on the latch for continuity. If any of the switches lack continuity when activated, it's necessary to replace the switch.

How to Replace Washing Machine Door Latch

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect power to avoid electric shock.

2. Open the door. Prop the door fully open to access the latch assembly.

3. Remove inner door panel. Detach the screws or clips to remove the inner door panel, if needed for access.

4. Detach latch linkage. Disconnect the latch assembly linkage rods from the door mechanism.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach any screws securing the latch to the door frame.

6. Remove old latch. Carefully detach and remove the old, malfunctioning latch mechanism.

7. Install new latch. Align and insert the new latch assembly into the door frame opening.

8. Reattach mounting screws. Tighten screws to securely fasten the latch assembly in place.

9. Reconnect latch linkages. Attach the latch linkage rods back to the door mechanism.

10. Replace inner door panel. If removed, reattach the inner door panel.

11. Test operation. Close the door and test the latch engagement before regular use.

12. Restore power. Plug washing machine back in once the new latch is installed and working.

Repair Instructions:

The door lock on the Whirlpool washer is responsible for keeping the door securely closed while it's in use. When the door is closed, the Whirlpool washer can start its operation. If there's a problem with the door lock, the Whirlpool washer door won't close properly. The door lock can have either mechanical or electrical failures. Take a look at the door lock to check for any signs of damage. If the door lock is damaged or doesn't latch correctly, it needs to be replaced. To find out if there's an electrical issue with the door lock, you can use a multimeter to test each of the door lock switches for continuity. This will help determine if the door lock has failed electronically.

How to Replace Washing Machine Door Lock

1. Shut off power. Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet or turn off the power at the circuit breaker to ensure the machine won't accidentally turn on during repairs.

2. Remove outer cover. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove any screws securing the outer plastic or metal cover. Lift it off to access the inner components.

3. Disconnect old lock. Locate the door lock assembly, usually on the bottom left or right side of the tub opening. Unplug any electrical connections and unwind wire clips or ties holding the wires in place.

4. Unfasten lock bolts. Use your screwdriver to remove any mounting bolts, screws or clips attaching the old lock to the washing machine frame. Lift it out once it's fully detached.

5. Align new lock. Hold the replacement lock in position so the bolt holes line up with the frame. Make sure gaskets or seals are in the correct position first if applicable.

6. Reattach with bolts. Thread the mounting bolts back through the lock and tighten them to secure it firmly in place. Do not overtighten.

7. Reconnect wires. Plug any electrical connections back into the replacement lock and secure wires with ties or clips to protect them.

8. Replace cover. Slide the outer cover back into position and install the retaining screws to complete the repair. Restore power and test that the new lock is functioning properly before use.

Repair Instructions:

Some older washing machined have a water pump belt. If this belt becomes broken or worn out, the Whirlpool washer will be unable to drain properly. Take a moment to inspect the belt and replace it if you notice any indications of significant wear.

How to Replace Washing Machine Water Pump Belt

1. Shut off water supply. Turn off valves where supply hoses connect to prevent flooding during repairs.

2. Disconnect hoses. Detach hoses from pump housing to access belt inside. Use pliers if needed.

3. Loosen retaining bolts. The water pump is usually secured inside the machine cabinet. Loosen bolts.

4. Tip out water pump. Gently rock or rotate the pump housing until it comes free from loosened bolts and can be lifted out.

5. Release belt tension. A bolt or lever typically tensions the belt around the pulleys. Loosen it.

6. Remove old belt. Slide the worn belt off one pulley, then the other to remove it fully from the pump compartment.

7. Position new belt. Loop the replacement belt over both pulleys so it sits correctly in the grooves.

8. Restore tension. Retighten the pump housing bolt or tensioning lever to firmly secure the new belt in place.

9. Refasten pump housing. Rebolt the water pump securely back inside the Whirlpool washer cabinet.

10. Reconnect hoses. Attach hoses to the pump inlet and outlet ports before turning water supply back on.

Repair Instructions:

It's possible that foreign objects like lint, coins, or safety pins could have ended up in the pump of your washing machine. To prevent these items from reaching the pump impeller, most front-load Whirlpool washers are equipped with a clean-out feature. If your machine has a clean-out, it's important to check it for any potential obstructions.

Repair Instructions:

Take a moment to inspect the drain hose for any kinks or clogs. If your Whirlpool washer tends to move or "dance" while running, it could have shifted and caused the hose to bend. Another possibility is that the drain hose might be clogged with lint or hair. To address this, you can use a slender brush with a long handle to clean out the hose.

Repair Instructions:

Remove any debris that may be present in the door lock or latch assembly. The presence of debris in these areas can hinder the proper functioning of the Whirlpool washer.

Repair Instructions:

It is important to remove any debris that may be present in the door lock or lid switch assembly. The presence of debris in these areas can hinder the unit's performance.