How to Drain a Washing Machine or Washer Dryer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Issue

• Water remains in the drum after a cycle
• Washing machine not draining properly
• Washing machine stuck with water inside

Applies to

• Washing machines
• Washer dryers

Resolution

Why Your Washing Machine Is Not Draining

Sometimes a washing machine fails to drain properly, leaving water in the drum. This can happen due to:

• A blocked or dirty filter
• A clogged or kinked drain hose
• A pump issue

Draining the machine is also recommended before cleaning the filter to prevent water spilling onto the floor.

How to Drain a Washing Machine

Step 1: Try a Spin/Drain Cycle

Start by running a Spin/Drain program.
If the water does not drain, follow the steps below.

Important Safety Instructions

• Disconnect the appliance from the mains before starting
• Allow hot water to cool down before handling
• Check that the drain hose is not bent or blocked

Method 1: Drain Water via the Filter (Most Common Solution)

Access the Filter

• Built-in appliance → remove bottom plinth
• Freestanding appliance → locate pump cover

Follow these steps:

1. Open the pump cover (push or use a coin if needed)

2. Place a shallow tray or bowl underneath (e.g., oven tray)

3. Pull the cover over the filter down

4. Turn the filter 180 degrees in an anti-clockwise direction to open it, without removing. Let the water flow out.

5. When your bowl is full of water, turn the filter back and empty the container.

6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the water stops flowing out.

7. Turn the filter anti-clockwise to remove it.

8. If it is necessary, remove fluff and objects from the filter recess. Run the filter under the tap. Also, make sure that the impeller of the pump can rotate.

9. Put the filter back into the special guides by turning it clockwise. Make sure that you tighten the filter correctly to prevent leakages.

10. Close the pump cover

11. Put 2 Litres of water in the detergent drawer

12. Run the Spin/Drain programme

Method 2: Manual Drain (If No Filter or Not Working)

1. Run a spin/drain programme

2. Unplug the appliance

3. Turn off the water supply

4. Put the two ends of the inlet hose in a container and let the water flow out of the hose.

5. Unscrew the water outlet pipe from the drain and lay the tube close to the ground (do put something at the end of it to collect the water.

6. Plug in the appliance

7. Put 2 Litres of water in the detergent drawer

8. Run the Spin/Drain programme

When to Call a Technician

If your washing machine still won’t drain, it may indicate:

• Faulty drain pump
• Internal blockage
• Electrical malfunction

Still need help? Get expert support

If the issue continues, a professional technician can help diagnose and fix the problem.

No matter if your appliance is in warranty, out of warranty, or covered by an appliance protection plan - we’ll guide you to the right service.

Book a repair online