What Does Not Draining Mean
When an appliance doesn’t drain, it means water remains inside after a cycle. This is common in washing machines, dishwashers, and air conditioners. The device may finish the program but leave standing water, showing a clear sign that the drainage system isn’t functioning correctly.
How to Recognize Drainage Problems
- Water remains in the drum or tub after the cycle ends
- Error codes appear on the display (e.g. F02, E20, F9E1)
- You hear the drain pump running, but no water exits
- Bad odor from stagnant water
- Water leaks from the bottom or front panel
- Condensation builds up around an AC unit
Common Causes of Drain Failure
- Clogged drain filter – foreign objects like coins, lint, or food debris block the pump inlet
- Blocked or kinked drain hose – restricts water flow to the drain
- Faulty drain pump – the motor may fail mechanically or electrically
- Control board failure – no signal is sent to activate the drain cycle
- Faulty pressure switch – misreads water levels and interrupts drainage
- Plumbing issue – clogged siphon or standpipe prevents discharge
What You Can Check Yourself
- Unplug the appliance for safety
- Open the service flap and remove the drain filter to check for debris
- Drain water manually through the emergency hose if available
- Inspect the drain hose for bends or blockages
- Check if the sink or standpipe is clogged
If the pump is humming or the error repeats after reset, professional repair is needed.
What Happens If You Ignore It
- Internal corrosion from standing water
- Electrical short circuits due to overflow
- Mold and bacterial growth inside the drum or tub
- Permanent pump or control board damage
- Potential flooding in your home
What a Technician Will Do
- Diagnose the drain pump, pressure switch, and control board
- Clean or replace the drain system components
- Test the appliance under load after repair
- Ensure all hoses and connectors are sealed and safe
- Restore full functionality and provide warranty for parts and labor
When to Call for Service
- Water remains inside and won’t drain
- Appliance shows a persistent error code
- Visible water leaks from under the unit
- Burning smell, tripped breaker, or system shutdown
- You can’t remove the water or restart the cycle
Cost and Time of Repair
Most drain-related repairs take 30 to 90 minutes. Costs vary depending on the brand and damage but are usually lower than pump replacement if addressed early. A technician will provide an estimate after inspection.
What You Should Do Now
If your appliance is not draining, unplug it and do not attempt to restart. Drain any visible water only if it can be done safely. The longer the appliance stays full, the higher the risk of damage.
Use the form below to schedule an expert visit. Fast diagnosis and proper repair will restore your appliance and prevent further damage.
