Gather Your Supplies 

The first step to any project is gathering the essential items needed to get the job done. For this task, you will need a five-gallon bucket, a plumber’s snake, a screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, your washing machine’s owner’s manual, towels and a shallow container (baking dish or large oil pan for example). 

Do You Have a Top-Loading Washing Machine? Check the Lid Before Starting 

It is common for top loading washing machine draining issues to have a simple cause. If the lid hasn’t been properly shut, then this can send the wrong signal to the machine and disrupt the cycle. The result may appear that a problem exists, when all that is needed is to shut the lid. In some cases, the lid may be damaged. While you will need to replace it, for now, the water may still drain if you press down firmly to restart the wash cycle. 

Follow These Steps 

If you have a front-loading machine, or you have eliminated the possibility of a lid issue, then you can move on to the first step in the manual draining process. Always put safety first by turning off the power at the breaker box to avoid electrocution, injury or property damage. Shut off the water supply and unplug the machine as well, as additional precautions. Then, place the towels strategically around the machine to absorb any excess water. Next, pull the washing machine away from the wall and look for three hoses. In most cases, there will be a gray one for wastewater, blue for cold water and red for hot water. Disconnect the gray drain hose from the pipe and hold it up high, so the water can’t spill out. Then put the hose into the bucket and let the water inside the machine go into it. Repeat this process until the machine is empty. 

Some front-loading machines will have a drainpipe filter and a separate drain hose. These are often located inside the panel on the bottom front side of your machine. The owner’s manual should indicate where it is on your model. Place your shallow container in front of the drain pump filter and turn the knob. The water should start flowing out. Close the knob when it becomes full. Dump and repeat until all the water is gone. 

Do You Suspect That Clogged Pipes are to Blame? Call Rooter Hero Plumbing Today 

Once you have drained your washing machine, it is important to find out what the cause of the problem was in the first place. The appliance itself could be dysfunctional, in which case you will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for troubleshooting the issue. However, if clogged pipes are to blame, then you will need qualified plumbers who can help clear out your drain line and restore the proper flow of wastewater through your system. Contact our office for more information about our wide selection of services or to schedule an appointment with a certified, licensed and insured plumber in your California or Arizona area neighborhood.