What Causes Washing Machine Drainage Problems

Is that pesky washing machine acting up again? Don’t fret. Drainage issues are a common occurrence for these types of machines, and there are plenty of quick fixes for troubleshooting the problem. Here are a few key areas that can help you easily identify the culprit:

1. Hose off: One of the most frequent issues related to water drainage involves the hose. If your machine is having trouble with the drainage system, make sure the hose does not have any kinks in it. If you find a kink, just straighten out the hose, and that should remedy the issue. If a problem continues to persist, try removing the hose between the bottom of the tub and the pump, and be sure to have a water pail on standby in case of spills. Ever wondered where those phantom socks go after a load of laundry? There’s a good chance they wound up in the hose, which can cause clogs that prevent water from draining properly.
2. Pump it up: Pumps can also cause all sorts of problems, so this is another key area to inspect if the hose solution doesn’t work. You should be able to hear the pump while the machine is operating. If it doesn’t make a sound, it might need to be replaced or inspected for jams.
3. The ol’ switcheroo: Most washing machines have a sensor known as the lid switch or door switch. This switch prevents the machine from operating when the lid is open. A defective switch can cause the washing machine to encounter an error during the spin and rinse cycle.
4. Belt it out: The drive belt is an essential component for a machine’s ability to function. Sometimes the belt simply needs to be readjusted back into its proper place. However, if the belt continues to fall out of line, this is a sign that it’s time for a replacement belt.
5. When in doubt, give your friends at MET Plumbing & Air Conditioning a call at 281-599-3336. Our experts are here to get your washing machine back up and running in no time.