Amana Washing Machine: drain pump running continuously

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Amana washing machine's drain pump running continuously, even when there's no water present? This issue may arise during different cycle stages, disrupting normal operation. Discover potential causes and solutions to restore your washer's functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana official support emphasizes correct drain plumbing to prevent unintended siphoning and continuous flow.

Possible Causes

Faulty control board (electronic control)

How to Identify: Pump runs at inappropriate times (during fill, idle, or cycle changes, resetting/unplugging temporarily doesn’t fix; user forums report control board as primary failure cause for constant pump running.

Part: Main control board / electronic control module

Incorrect drain hose installation / siphoning

How to Identify: Water/gravity siphon drains causing low-level triggers for pump; manufacturer notes improper drain height (below ~30"/76cm can cause continuous drain behavior. (Product Help | Amana

Part: Drain hose and standpipe arrangement

Faulty pressure (water level) sensor or pressure switch

How to Identify: Pump thinks tub is full and continuously tries to drain; common root cause in general washer troubleshooting guides.

Part: Water level pressure switch / sensor

Clogged drain system / debris in drain pump

How to Identify: Pump runs but water doesn’t clear or cycles continue in unusual ways; blockages are common in general washer drain issues.

Part: Drain pump filter and hoses

DIY Solutions

Ensure proper drain hose installation height

Easy 10-20 minutes
  1. Check that drain hose is installed per manufacturer height recommendations (standpipe top at least 30"/76 cm above floor). (Product Help | Amana
  2. Adjust hose if necessary to prevent siphoning.

Inspect and clear drain hose and pump filter

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, towels
  1. Unplug washer and locate drain pump access panel.
  2. Remove drain pump filter or hose and check for debris.
  3. Clear any lint, coins, or objects from filter and hose.
  4. Reassemble and test machine.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing internal components.

Professional Repairs

Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Pressure sensor/switch replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

After trying basic hose and filter checks, if pump still runs continuously
If diagnosis points to control board or pressure switch failure
If uncomfortable accessing internal components

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean drain pump filter and hose: Blockages that may lead to abnormal drain pump behavior
    Frequency: every 3–6 months
  • Verify drain hose installation: Siphoning issues due to hose height
    Frequency: once at installation and periodic checks

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Washing Machine drain pump running continuously?
Common causes include a faulty control board, incorrect drain hose installation, or a clogged drain system.
How do I fix Amana Washing Machine drain pump running continuously myself?
Check the drain hose height and clear any debris from the drain pump filter.
How much does it cost to fix drain pump running continuously?
Repair costs range from $50 for a pressure switch to $400 for control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for drain pump running continuously?
If DIY solutions fail or if the issue involves complex repairs, it's time to call a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty control board (3 mentions)
  • Defective drain pump (3 mentions)
  • Malfunctioning pressure switch (2 mentions)
  • Lid switch issue (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Amana Washing Machine Draining After Cycle Complete
  2. Amana NTW4516FW4 washer drain always running
  3. Amana Washing machine Draining After Cycle Complete!!!

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