Last Updated on February 19, 2023 by Jahangir
When was the last time you took your laundry to the laundry room? Most likely, it was not too long ago. Many of us prefer to do laundry at home because of the convenience and comfort it brings along. However, one of the most common laundry tasks that most of us take for granted is washing machine draining.
It is important to drain your washing machine regularly to ensure optimal performance. After all, it’s the machine’s job to clean your clothes and remove excess water after each cycle so they dry faster. In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about washing machine drain mysteries and how you can drain a top-loading washer or a front-loading washer without an appliance like a hose or plunger.
What is the Mystery Behind Washing Machine Drains?
Washing machines drain for a variety of reasons, ranging from clogs in the drain pipe to old or damaged pipes. The drain hose may become kinked, causing the machine to drain slowly. A blockage in the main sewer line can also cause washing machines to overflow. If the washer is large, it can’t fit through the drain hose, so it overflows on the floor. Most washer models have a mechanism that prevents this from happening, but if the washer gets stuck or becomes damaged, it’ll drain until it’s empty.
If the washer is top-load, there may be a blockage in the water intake hose or the water level may not be high enough for the washer to spin. Houses with no utility sink in the laundry room drain washing machines through dedicated drain pipe.
How to Drain a Top-Loading Washing Machine
Before starting the drain-and- spin cycle on your top-loading washing machine, make sure the lid is securely closed. This will ensure the machine drains and spins properly without any issues.
Moreover, you must unplug the machine or switch off the appropriate circuit breaker for safety. Doing so will prevent any potential shock or damage to the washing machine. Also, place towels around the washing machine to prevent spills and use a bucket or cup to bail out the water as needed. To drain the water completely from the washing machine, use the drain hose at the back of the machine. Additionally, be sure to follow the instructions provided with your model of washing machine for optimal performance.
How to Drain a Front-Loading Washing Machine
When you drain a front-loading washing machine, the following steps can help you drain the machine efficiently and safely.
– Unplug the washing machine and switch off the circuit breaker.
– Make sure the lid is securely closed before attempting to drain the machine.
– Use a bucket or basin to catch the water as it drains from the washer. The water will drain slowly, so be patient and wait for the water to drain completely.
– If possible, switch off the water supply too, as this will stop the washer from automatically draining water during the spin cycle. Use a bucket or basin to catch the water as it drains from the washer. The water will drain slowly, so be patient and wait for the water to drain completely.
– If you still cannot access any of the drainage hoses, use a screwdriver to open the washer’s drain hose connection panel and empty out any water trapped inside.
– Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer and pull it away from the wall to give yourself more space.
– Finally, remove any residue from inside of washer using a brush or cloth and switch it off. You have successfully drained your washing machine!
Common Problems with Washing Machine Drains
Not all washing machine drain problems are the result of a clog in the drain hose or drain standpipe. A buildup of lint and debris in the drain pipe can also lead to overflowing, as can old or damaged pipes, a kink in the discharge hose, a blockage in the main sewer line, and wrong-sized pipes.
Homeowners should inspect their drainage system regularly for clogs and leaks. Clearing debris from the drainage system and repairing any leaks promptly can help prevent costly repairs, such as flooded basements or broken water lines. Additionally, washing machine drain troubleshooting can be helpful. If the drain hose becomes clogged or stops draining, homeowners should check the connector hose between the washer and drain hose for debris or damage. If that appears fine, they can try unplugging the washer and checking the drain hose for blockage. If it is clear of any debris or visible blockage, they should call their local water utility for assistance with drain problems.
Tips for Maintaining Proper Drainage in Your Washing Machine
– Washing machines drain differently depending on the settings selected. Use the wash cycle with the water level control set to “low” to drain the machine quickly.
– Use the spin cycle with the water level control set to “high” to drain the machine slowly.
– Use the rinse cycle with the water level control set to “automatic” to drain the machine thoroughly without any extra water being added to the washer.
– To clean your washing machine and its drainage system, thoroughly dump out the water after each use and use a descaler for added cleaning.
– A liquid drain cleaner can be used for preventative maintenance when clogs develop or if you notice damaged seals on the drain hose.
– Cleaning your washing machine and its drainage system every three months will ensure it is running smoothly and efficiently.
Tips for Draining a Washer Without Water Going Everywhere
Many people who have a washer and dryer pair have experienced the drain clog problem. The drain clog usually occurs because the water level inside the washer is too high and cannot drain out easily. When the water level inside the washer becomes too high, it can cause the machine to stop functioning properly or cause a drain clog. The drain hose inside your washer should be able to drain water freely without blocking or becoming clogged. If this doesn’t happen and you notice a drain clog, there are steps you can take to fix the issue.
– Elevate the washer on bricks or blocks of wood if possible to minimize mess and water spills
– Lay down a tarp or absorbent towels to contain water and absorb any messes
– Use a shallow tray instead of a deep bucket to fit underneath the drain pipe, especially for front loading washers
– Empty the tray every minute or two to avoid overflowing
– Draining your washing machine from time to time and removing clogs will help prevent bad odors and poor draining
Regardless of the type of washer you own, it’s important that you follow the washer’s instructions for proper laundry care to avoid drain clogs and other issues with your washer.
Common Reasons for a Washing Machine Not Draining
A washing machine drain not properly draining can be due to a variety of reasons, from clogs in the drain hose or standpipe to poorly sized pipes, kinks in the discharge hose, and a blockage in the main sewer line. It is vital for washers to completely drain before moving them to prevent leaks and mold or mildew buildup. Additionally, lint and other debris that come off of clothing during the wash cycle can also lead to clogs in the drain pipe. If your washing machine is not draining properly, it’s important to check the drain hose and any other components of the washing machine thoroughly to identify the source of the issue and address it quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common causes of washing machine drains clogging up?
Clogged drain pipes are the leading cause of overflowing washing machines. They can be caused by lint, dirt, debris, threads, hair, grease or oil, soap scum, bacteria, and foreign objects.
To prevent clogs from happening in the first place, regularly inspect the drainage system for blockages and leaks. Clear any debris and repair any leaks to protect your home from costly repairs.
How can I clear a washing machine drain quickly and easily?
If you’re experiencing a washing machine drain issue, the best course of action is to check the user manual for specific instructions for the brand of appliance you own. Additionally, if the drain pipe and discharge hose are still connected, clear the drain using one of the following methods:
– Bucket: Fill a bucket with water and place it over the drain opening. Use your hands to pour the water out of the washer while keeping the bucket level.
– Cup or Bowl: Place a cup or bowl over the drain opening and slowly lower it down until the water fills the cup or bowl. Use your hands to pour the water out of the washer while keeping the cup or bowl level.
– Discharge Hose: Hang a hose over the drain opening and turn on the water. Walk away from the washer while the hose drains the water.
– Unplug Machine: Before attempting to manually drain the washer, unplug it first to reduce the risk of electric shock.
What should I do if my washing machine drain is overflowing?
If your washing machine drain is overflowing, follow these simple steps to prevent damage and costly repairs:
1. Check the drain hose and standpipe for blockages. If you notice any obstructions, try using a snake or a plunger to clear the drain.
2. Empty the water out of the washing machine by opening the lid and setting the machine on its drain cycle.
3. Check the washer level and top-load washer water level before starting the machine. If the washer is full of water, it will not spin and will overflow when washing.
4. If the washer level or top-load washer water level is correct, but the washing machine still overflows, drain the water out completely by opening the lid, turning the washer off, and unplugging the washer from the wall.
5. Call a professional for help if your washing machine drain persists in overflowing.
What should I do if my washing machine drain is blocked?
If you’re experiencing washing machine overflow, the most common cause of which is a blocked drain hose or standpipe, then your first step should be to check the drain hose or standpipe for blockages. If it’s not blocked, inspect the pump, lid switch, or belt for signs of damage. If any of these are damaged, it can cause your washing machine to not drain water and result in overflow.
To prevent future overflow, you may also want to schedule maintenance and annual check-ins. Additionally, if overflow does occur, act quickly to minimize damage. For example, turn off the water supply to the washer and disconnect the electric supply to the pump. Next, use a plunger or bucket to drain water from the machine. Finally, identify the cause of the issue and fix it.
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Conclusion
Now that you’re familiar with the drainage of washer and washing machine drains, the next time you’re faced with drain-related drain blockage, you’ll readily be able to solve the problem. Besides, you’ll also have the knowledge of how to drain washer and washing machine drains in case they become clogged. Keep reading up on washer-related tips and advice on washer drain-cleaning here.
Mr. Jahangir Alam is an Electrical & Electronics Engineer with a wide range of experience in several fields of Engineering. He finds engineering articles to be very interesting, and that is why he likes to write them. To know more about him, please click here.