Washing Machine Won’t Drain or Spin? Step-by-Step Fixes for Top & Front Load Models

A washer full of water and soggy clothes isn’t just annoying—it could indicate a range of issues, from a clogged drain hose to a faulty lid switch. Whether your top-load washing machine won’t drain or your front-load model won’t spin, this guide helps you troubleshoot safely and effectively.

• Unplug the washer from the outlet
• Shut off both water supply valves
• Keep a shallow pan, towels, and gloves ready
• Have a screwdriver and pliers on hand

If your washing machine won’t spin or drain, these are the most likely culprits:

1. Clogged Drain Filter Your washer’s filter (found in most front-load models) captures debris like coins, lint, and paper. If your front load washing machine won’t drain or spin, a blocked filter could be the reason.
2. Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose A bent hose or buildup can choke water flow. This issue can affect both top and front load washers.
3. Faulty Lid or Door Switch In a top load washing machine that won’t drain or spin, the lid switch might not be triggering the cycle. In front-loaders, a broken door latch may stop the spin and drain cycle.
4. Clogged Washing Machine Drain Pump Small socks or detergent residue can clog the pump, leaving water behind. A noisy washer during spin may point to this issue.
5. Load Imbalance or Belt Issues If the load is uneven, your washer may pause mid-cycle. Loose belts also affect spin and drainage.

If your washer is filled with water:

Option 1: Scoop & Bail

Use a small container and bucket to manually remove the water. This works in emergencies but takes time.

Option 2: Gravity Drain with Hose

Detach the drain hose and lower it into a bucket. Gravity will help drain the drum.

If no water comes out, proceed to the troubleshooting steps below.

Step 1: Reset the Washer:

Unplug for 60 seconds. Some washers reset when you open and close the lid 6 times in 12 seconds.

Step 2: Inspect the Drain Hose:

• Check for squashed or bent sections
• Flush with hot water
• Use a plumber’s snake for deep blockages

Step 3: Clean the Drain Filter:

• Open the access panel (usually at the front bottom)
• Twist out the filter and remove any debris
• Clean with a toothbrush under warm water

Step 4: Inspect the Washing Machine’s Drain Pump:

• Locate the pump via the bottom or rear panel
• Look for clogs, worn impellers, or leaks
• Replace the part if damaged

Step 5: Test the Lid Switch or Door Lock:

• Press it manually; listen for a click
• If unresponsive, the switch likely needs replacement

Step 6: Examine the Drive Belt:

• Remove the back panel
• Check belt tension; replace if loose or worn

Step 7: Consider Error Codes:

Your washer might display codes like:

• OE (LG) – Drain error
• F21 (Whirlpool) – Long drain time
• 5E (Samsung) – Drain issue

Check the user manual to decode alerts.

Call a professional if:

• The washer won’t power on after a reset
• There’s a burnt smell or sparks
• The washing machine won’t drain despite all checks

We are top rated appliance repair service provider in Edmonton, Calgary and surrounding areas. With more than 30 + Year of experience our certified technicians will quickly identify and solve any issue with your washing machine.

• Clean the washer filter monthly
• Avoid overloading
• Use proper detergent quantities
• Check and clean the washing machine’s drain pump routinely
• Run monthly hot wash cycles to flush residue