What to Do If Your Washing Machine Drain is Blocked

Identifying the Blockage

If your washing machine is not draining, it is likely that there is a blockage somewhere in the drainage system.

Before you can fix the problem, you need to identify where the blockage is located.

Here are some steps you can take to identify the blockage:

Inspect the Drain Hose

The first thing you should check is the drain hose.

The drain hose is the tube that carries the water from the washing machine to the drain.

If the hose is kinked or twisted, it can prevent the water from draining properly.

Check the hose for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or holes. If the hose is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Check the Drain Pump Filter

If the drain hose is not the problem, the next thing you should check is the drain pump filter.

The drain pump filter is a small filter located at the bottom of the washing machine.

It is designed to catch any lint, coins, or other debris that may be in the wash water.

Over time, the filter can become clogged with debris, which can prevent the water from draining properly.

To check the drain pump filter, you will need to locate it on your washing machine.

The location of the filter may vary depending on the make and model of your machine, so consult your user manual if you are unsure where to find it.

Once you have located the filter, you can remove it and inspect it for any signs of blockage.

If the filter is clogged, you can clean it by rinsing it under running water.

Simple Solutions to Try First

If you have a blocked washing machine drain, there are a few simple solutions you can try before calling a plumber.

Here are two effective methods you can use to unblock your washing machine drain:

Method 1: Use a Plunger

A plunger can be an effective tool to unblock a washing machine drain.

1. Fill the washing machine with enough water to cover the plunger.
2. Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly.
3. Pull up quickly to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
4. Repeat this process a few times until the water starts to drain.

Method 2: Hot Water Flush

Another simple solution is to flush the drain with hot water.

1. Boil a large pot of water on the stove.
2. Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the power source.
3. Pour the hot water down the drain and wait for a few minutes.
4. Plug the washing machine back in and turn it on to see if the water drains.

If these methods don’t work, it may be time to call a professional plumber.

Chemical and Natural Unblockers

If you are looking for a quick and easy solution to unblock your washing machine drain, you might want to try using a commercial drain cleaner.

These products can be found in most supermarkets and hardware stores.

However, be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as some cleaners can be harmful to your plumbing system and the environment.

DIY Natural Solutions

If you prefer a more natural approach to unblocking your washing machine drain, there are several DIY solutions you can try.

One of the most effective is a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Here’s how to do it:

1. Remove the hose from the back of your washing machine.
2. Using a funnel, pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe.
3. Empty a full baster of vinegar into the pipe.
4. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth to prevent the mixture from escaping.
5. Wait for 30 minutes.
6. Flush the drain with hot water.

The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar should help to dissolve any blockages in your drain.

You can also try using a plunger to help dislodge any stubborn clogs.

Another natural solution is to use salt and boiling water. Simply pour a cup of salt down the drain, followed by a kettle of boiling water.

The salt will help to break down any grease or soap scum, while the hot water will flush it away.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

To avoid future blockages, be sure to clean your washing machine regularly and avoid putting large items, such as blankets and towels, in the machine.

Manual Removal of Blockages

If your washing machine drain is blocked, you can attempt to manually remove the blockage before calling a professional.

Dismantling the Hose

The first step is to dismantle the hose from the back of your washing machine.

Ensure that you turn off the power and water supply before doing this.

Once the hose is removed, check for any visible blockages.

You can use a torch to check for blockages inside the hose.

Cleaning the Pump Filter Manually

If you do not find any visible blockages in the hose, the next step is to check the pump filter.

The pump filter is located at the bottom of the washing machine.

You can access it by removing the front panel of the washing machine.

Once you have located the pump filter, you can clean it manually.

Place a container under the filter to catch any water that may spill out.

Unscrew the filter and remove any debris that may be blocking it.

You can use a cloth or a brush to clean the filter. Once the filter is clean, screw it back in place.

After cleaning the pump filter, reassemble the hose and turn on the power and water supply.

Run a cycle to check if the blockage has been cleared.

Preventing Future Blockages

Preventing future blockages in your washing machine drain requires regular maintenance.

Here are some tips to keep your washing machine drain running smoothly:

• Clean the lint filter regularly: Lint can build up in your washing machine and cause blockages. Cleaning the lint filter after every wash can help prevent this.
• Use the right detergent: Using too much detergent or the wrong type of detergent can cause a build-up of soap scum in your washing machine drain. Be sure to use the recommended amount of detergent for your machine and choose a detergent that is suitable for your washing machine.
• Run hot water through the drain: Running hot water through your washing machine drain once a week can help prevent blockages. This will help to dissolve any soap scum or other debris that may have built up in the drain.

Best Practices for Drain Care

In addition to regular maintenance, there are some best practices you can follow to care for your washing machine drain:

• Avoid washing large items: Washing large items such as blankets or curtains can put a strain on your washing machine drain and increase the risk of blockages. If you need to wash large items, consider taking them to a laundromat with commercial washing machines.
• Don’t overload the machine: Overloading your washing machine can also put a strain on the drain and increase the risk of blockages. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load size.
• Be careful what you wash: Avoid washing items that can cause blockages, such as socks or underwear with loose elastic. These items can get caught in the drain and cause blockages.

When to Call a Professional

If you have tried all the DIY methods and your washing machine drain is still blocked, it may be time to call a professional.

Here are some signs that it’s time to call in the experts:

1. Water is overflowing

If water is overflowing from your washing machine or sink, it’s a sign that the blockage is severe and needs professional attention. A professional plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it quickly.

2. Strange noises

If you hear strange noises coming from your washing machine when it’s draining, it could be a sign of a blockage. A professional plumber will be able to identify the problem and fix it before it gets worse.

3. Foul smells

Foul smells coming from your washing machine could be a sign of a blockage. A professional plumber will be able to identify the cause of the smell and fix it quickly.

4. Multiple blockages

If you have multiple blockages in your home, it could be a sign of a larger problem. A professional plumber will be able to identify the cause of the blockages and fix them quickly.