Check Drain Pump On Washer

Washing machines are a lifesaver when it comes to efficiently cleaning clothes. They can handle loads of clothing, blankets, and even about intricate fabrics. However, similar to any other machine, washers also have their hiccups. One significant issue with washing machines is a malfunctioning drain pump. When it occurs, it can be a hassle, preventing you from rinsing your clothes and leaving you with a machine full of soapy water. But don't worry; in this article, we will guide you through how to check the drain pump on your washer, allowing you to troubleshoot and possibly fix the problem yourself. Firstly, you must understand the function of a washer's drain pump. Typically, it is designed to drain the water during and after a wash cycle. It is positioned at the bottom of the washing machine and features an engine that pumps water from the machine's drum to the drain pipe. Therefore, if clothes remain wet after a cycle or if the washer doesn't drain, the problem often lies in the drain pump. Before you open up your washing machine, ascertain that the problem is with the drain pump. The first thing to notice is if your washer leaves clothes sopping wet or there's standing water in the drum post-cycle. These indications directly imply that the washer isn’t draining properly. Sometimes these issues might be a result of a clogged washer, not necessarily a broken drain pump. Therefore, check if the filter or coin trap is jammed—clearing it might solve the problem. If the problem persists, chances are high that it’s related to the drain pump. The process of checking the washer’s drain pump requires tools like a screwdriver or nutdriver and a multimeter. Also, ensure to unplug the washer before working on it, for safety reasons. Accessing the pump varies with the model of the washer. In many front-load washers, it is at the bottom front, while in a top-load washer, you need to remove the entire outer tub. Mostly, the pump consists of two separate chambers—one houses the impeller, as the water exits from here to the drain pipe, and the other houses the filter. If you find anything stuck in the impeller, carefully remove it. Occasionally, lint, fabric, coins, or even small clothes get caught in the impeller, preventing the water from exiting. If nothing is blocking the impeller and it's spinning well when touched, then the motor is likely the issue. Use a multimeter to check the drain pump motor. Set it to the Rx1 setting and touch the probes to the terminals. A reading between 100 and 300 (approx.) means that the motor is functioning correctly. If it's more than that, the motor is faulty and needs replacing. The steps on replacing a pump or motor depend on your washing machine’s model. If you're not sure about doing it yourself, it's better to hire a professional. After you check and fix the drain pump, put everything back where they belong, plug in the machine, and run a test wash on the empty machine. If the washer drains and spins as it should, voila! You have fixed the issue. However, if the problem persists, the cause might be more complex than just the pump or motor—maybe a blocked drain house or an error with the control panel, which will require professional help. In conclusion, just because your washer isn't draining, it doesn't mean you should immediately panic or think about buying a new one. Sometimes, issues like these can be solved without the need for a professional repairman or extra spending. Accessing and checking the drain pump of your washer might seem like a tedious task, but it could save you time and money in the long run. However, always remember that this is just a guide. If you're comfortable with the task and if your washer's warranty allows it, go ahead. If not, professional guidance is always an option. Home appliances are here to assist us, and with the right understanding and maintenance, they can serve us for a long haul.