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Symptom-first troubleshooting

Washer Not Draining: Error Codes, Causes & Fixes

Water left standing in the tub is almost always a restriction, not a failed pump. Work through the free checks first, then match your error code.

8 related code guidesAll Washer codes →

What this actually means

Understanding the fault

A washer that will not drain reports one of the most predictable faults in the appliance. The control starts a drain phase, watches the water level sensor, and throws a code when the level has not dropped far enough within the window that model allows. That code tells you water did not leave. It does not tell you the pump failed, and in most cases it has not.

Try these first — they cost nothing

Free checks before you buy any part

Work down the list in order and stop when the symptom clears.

  1. 1

    Clean the drain pump filter

    On many front-loaders this sits behind a small access panel near the bottom front. Put a shallow pan and towels down first because retained water may drain when the filter opens. Coins, hair clips, lint, and other debris are common restrictions.

  2. 2

    Check the drain hose for kinks and height

    Drain height requirements vary widely between models — check the installation specification for your exact machine rather than a general rule. Too low and the tub siphons; too high and the pump cannot lift the water. Pull the machine out and look for a hose crushed against the wall.

  3. 3

    Test the standpipe or disposer connection

    Test the standpipe with a controlled amount of water appropriate for the drain. If it backs up or drains slowly, the household drain may be the problem rather than the washer. On units draining into a disposer, confirm the inlet was opened correctly during installation.

  4. 4

    Listen to the pump during a drain cycle

    Start a drain and spin, then listen. A steady hum with no water movement usually means a jammed impeller or a failed pump. Complete silence more often points to a control, wiring, or lid-switch problem than to the pump itself.

No code on the display?

When your appliance shows nothing at all

Plenty of washers hold water without ever showing a code — older top-loaders in particular have no level feedback to fail on. Every check above still applies. If the pump runs and the filter is clear, suspect the drain hose or house plumbing before any electrical part.

Where to look

Common causes to check

  1. 1Clogged drain pump filter or trapped foreign object
  2. 2Kinked, crushed, or incorrectly routed drain hose
  3. 3Blocked house standpipe or capped disposer inlet
  4. 4Failed drain pump motor or seized impeller
  5. 5Water level pressure sensor reporting the wrong level
  6. 6Lid or door lock fault preventing the drain phase from starting

Know where to stop

When to call a professional

If the pump is clear and running but water still will not leave, or you find water in the machine base pan, stop. Persistent leaks and control board faults are worth a service call rather than parts guessing.

Read the full safety disclaimer

Match your code

8 related Washer error codes

If your appliance displayed a code, find it here for the diagnostic sequence specific to your brand. Codes vary by model, so confirm the full model number before ordering any part.

Other common appliance problems

Washer not fillingWasher won't spinDryer not heatingDryer taking too longDishwasher not drainingDishwasher leakingRefrigerator not coolingIce maker not workingOven not heating