How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually

A washing machine can fail to drain due to a clogged drain hose. Over time, hair, lint, and other debris can accumulate in the drain hose, preventing water from flowing freely. The other common culprits behind this problem include a blocked pump filter, a faulty drain pump, and a lid switch malfunction.

Thankfully, you can drain a washing machine manually in a matter of minutes and restore proper functioning. In this guide, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explains how to drain front-load and top-load washing machines. When you’re in need of dependable plumbing service, we are the experts to call.

How to Drain a Top-Load Washing Machine Manually

This is a simple process that doesn’t require any special skills or tools. All you need is a large bucket, a small screwdriver, and a basic understanding of how your top-load washing machine works.

The first step is to disconnect the washing machine from the power source to prevent electric shock. You should never attempt to troubleshoot a washing machine before unplugging it. Once you’ve confirmed that the machine is unplugged, pull the drain hose out of its clip and lower it into a bucket. The drain hose is usually located behind the washer, often near the bottom. Once the machine is empty, reattach the drain hose to its original position.

If it does not drain, it means there’s a blockage that needs to be cleared using a plumber’s snake. Insert a plumber’s snake into the drainpipe and rotate it until it hits the clog. Alternatively, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the clog. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, you’ll have to call a nearby plumbing repair service to perform an inspection and offer a solution. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to help you drain your front-load washing machine if you experience any difficulties.

How to Drain a Front-Load Washing Machine Manually

The process of draining a front-load washing machine is a bit different from a top-load washing machine because of the location of the drain pump and the type of drain hose. Start with the basics—unplug the washing machine and locate the drain pump. You’ll have to remove the front panel of the machine to access the pump. Use a bucket to scoop out the water from the drum and inspect it for any clogs or obstructions. Once the water is drained, reassemble the front panel and plug the machine back in. If the problem persists, call a skilled plumber to help you drain the water.

Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Clogged Drain Line Repair Services

Mr. Rooter Plumbing takes pride in offering reliable drain cleaning services to keep your drains flowing freely. Whether your washing machine is clogged and won’t drain or there are foul odors coming from your kitchen sink drain, we are the experts to call. We are equipped with effective tools to clear clogs and prevent them from recurring.