Whirlpool Drain Pump Clogged

A whirlpool drain pump is an essential part of your washing machine that helps to remove water from the tub during the spin cycle. When the drain pump becomes clogged, it can lead to a variety of issues including water not draining properly, causing your laundry to come out soaking wet. Clogs in the drain pump can happen for a variety of reasons, including lint, debris, or even small items like coins getting caught in the pump. If you suspect that your whirlpool drain pump is clogged, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your washing machine. In this article, we will discuss the signs of a clogged drain pump, how to troubleshoot the issue, and steps you can take to unclog the drain pump yourself. Signs of a Clogged Whirlpool Drain Pump There are several signs that indicate your whirlpool drain pump may be clogged. One of the most obvious signs is water not draining properly from the tub during the spin cycle. If you notice that your laundry is coming out of the washing machine soaking wet, this is a good indication that there is a problem with the drain pump. Another sign of a clogged drain pump is a loud noise coming from the washing machine during the spin cycle. This noise is caused by the drain pump struggling to pump out water due to the clog. If you hear a loud grinding or whirring noise coming from your washing machine, it's important to investigate the issue further. In some cases, a clogged drain pump can also cause your washing machine to vibrate excessively during the spin cycle. If you notice that your washing machine is shaking or moving around more than usual, it could be a sign that the drain pump is clogged and not functioning properly. Troubleshooting a Clogged Drain Pump If you suspect that your whirlpool drain pump is clogged, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to confirm the issue. The first step is to unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply. Next, you will need to locate the drain pump, which is typically located at the bottom of the washing machine. Once you have located the drain pump, you can visually inspect it for any signs of clogs or debris. Use a flashlight to get a better look at the pump and see if there are any obstructions that could be causing the issue. If you see any visible clogs, you can try to remove them using a pair of needle-nose pliers or a small wire hanger. If you are unable to visually identify any clogs, you can also try running a diagnostic test on your washing machine. Most whirlpool washing machines have a diagnostic mode that can help you identify any issues with the appliance. Refer to your washing machine's manual for instructions on how to run a diagnostic test. Unclogging the Whirlpool Drain Pump If you have confirmed that your whirlpool drain pump is clogged, there are several steps you can take to unclog the pump yourself. Before attempting to unclog the drain pump, it's important to unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply to avoid any accidents. The first step in unclogging the drain pump is to remove any visible debris or clogs from the pump. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a small wire hanger to carefully remove any obstructions from the pump. Be sure to work slowly and carefully to avoid causing any damage to the pump. If you are unable to remove the clog using pliers or a wire hanger, you can try using a wet/dry vacuum to suction out the clog. Simply attach the vacuum hose to the drain pump and turn on the vacuum to remove any debris from the pump. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister after you have finished to prevent the debris from clogging the vacuum. Once you have removed the clog from the drain pump, you can test the washing machine to ensure that the issue has been resolved. Plug in the washing machine and turn on the water supply, then run a test cycle to see if the water is draining properly from the tub. If the water is draining correctly, the clog has been successfully removed from the drain pump. Preventing Future Clogs To prevent future clogs in your whirlpool drain pump, there are a few steps you can take to maintain the appliance. One of the most important things you can do is to regularly clean out the drain pump and remove any debris or lint that may be building up over time. You can also try using a drain cleaner or descaling agent regularly to help prevent clogs in the pump. These products can help break down any build-up of soap scum or mineral deposits that can contribute to clogs in the pump. In addition, be sure to check your pockets before putting clothes in the washing machine to prevent small items like coins or hairpins from getting caught in the pump. These small items can easily cause clogs and damage to the drain pump if they are not removed before washing. Conclusion A clogged whirlpool drain pump can cause a variety of issues with your washing machine, including water not draining properly and excessive noise during the spin cycle. If you suspect that your drain pump is clogged, it's important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage to your appliance. By following the troubleshooting steps and unclogging tips outlined in this article, you can successfully remove the clog from your drain pump and get your washing machine back up and running smoothly. Additionally, taking steps to prevent future clogs can help extend the life of your whirlpool drain pump and keep your washing machine running efficiently for years to come.