REPAIR > WASHER > DRAINING ISSUES > DRAIN HOSE

How to Fix a Drain Hose for a Washer With Draining Issues

A common reason why your washer is not draining may be the drain hose. The drain hose transports water out of the washer during the rinse and wash cycles. If it is bent in a way that restricts water flow, then your washer may not drain. In this case, simply go to the rear end of your washer and straighten out the hose. It is also possible for the drain hose to become clogged with lint or loose items that get released during washing. You will need to remove these from the hose to restore your washer to its full working condition

Don’t worry, this is an easy fix! We have prepared this expert guide to give you step-by-step instructions on how you can find the drain hose, remove it, and clean it out. If the hose is no longer usable, we will show you how to install a new one in no time.

What is a Drain Hose?

The drain hose is a bendable pipe that connects the washer to the drainage pipes in the building. The drain pump inside your washer directs the wastewater from the laundry load into the washing machine drain hose, which carries it into the sewer system or septic tank. It is usually found on the back of the washer, along with two other hoses for both cold and hot water supply. The hot and cold water supply hoses bring clean water in, and the drain hose carries water out of the machine.

Where is the Drain Hose Located?

The drain hose is usually found on the back of the washer.

General Location of the Drain Hose in a Top Load Washer

A 3D diagram showing the components of a top load washer and specifying the location of the drain hose

General Location of the Drain Hose in a Front Load Washer

A 3D diagram showing the components of a front load washer and specifying the location of the drain hose

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Drain Hose in a Top Load Washing Machine

  1. Begin by unplugging your washing machine and moving it away from the wall, as you will need access to the back of the machine.
  2. Follow the drain hose from where it enters the machine. You may have to remove any screws or clips that hold it to the cabinet.
  3. Next, follow the hose to where it is attached to the outlet of the drive pump.
  4. Compress the spring clamp on the drain hose and move it up the hose in order to release it from the pump.
  5. Pull the hose off the pump. (Caution: There may be water still in the pump so a method of catching the water is advised).
  6. Pull the drain hose out from the back of the washer and check it for clogs and kinks.
  7. Run high-pressure water through the hose. If it is clogged, this should force the clog out.
  8. If it is damaged, you will need to replace it. If the hose is clean and undamaged, you will need to reinstall the hose and investigate another part of the machine.

How to Install a New Drain Hose in a Top Load Washing Machine

  1. Check ‘How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Drain Hose in a Top-Load Washer’ for instructions on how to remove the drain hose.
  2. With the drain hose already pulled out of the machine, you simply need to attach your new drain pump.
  3. Take your new hose and slide it in through the back of the machine. Ensure that the small end goes in first.
  4. Reinstall the cover that secures the drain hose to the back of the machine.
  5. Go to the front of the washer and fit the other end of the hose back onto the pump. Secure it with the spring clamp.
  6. Fit the front panel back onto the machine.
  7. Lower the top panel back down and ensure that the spring clips engage.
  8. Plug your machine back in and your repair is done.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Drain Hose in a Front Load Washing Machine

  1. Begin by unplugging your washing machine and moving it away from the wall.
  2. Remove the screws securing the back panel to the machine and slide the panel off.
  3. Remove the spring clamp securing the drain hose to the pump by compressing the clamps using a pair of pliers and sliding them upwards.
  4. Pull the drain hose off the pump.
  5. Detach the drain hose from the exterior of the machine.
  6. Release any clips or brackets holding the drain hose in the machine.
  7. Remove the old drain hose completely out of the machine.
  8. Check it for clogs and kinks.
  9. Run high-pressure water through the hose. If it is clogged, this should force the clog out.
  10. If it is damaged, you will need to replace it. If the hose is clean and undamaged, you will need to reinstall the hose and investigate another part of the washer.

How to Install a New Drain Hose in a Front Load Washing Machine

  1. Check ‘How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Drain Hose in a Front-Load Washer’ for instructions on how to remove the drain hose.
  2. With your old drain hose already removed from the machine, you simply need to attach your new drain hose.
  3. Attach your new drain hose to the drain pump and secure it with the spring clamp.
  4. Reattach any clips/brackets to hold the drain hose in place.
  5. Secure the new hose to the back of the machine.
  6. Slide the back panel back on the machine and reinstall the screws.
  7. Plug your machine back in and your repair is complete.

Next: Troubleshooting the Belt

Go To Main Page: Draining Issues

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