Samsung Washing Machine: not draining properly

Possible Causes

Clogged drain pump filter

How to Identify: Water remains in drum; visible debris in filter area; musty smell; noise from pump but no water removed.

Part: Drain pump filter

Blocked or kinked drain hose

How to Identify: Slow or no drainage; hose visibly bent, kinked, or clogged; water may back up if hose is blocked.

Part: Drain hose

Faulty drain pump

How to Identify: Pump makes little/no noise when draining should occur; testing shows no continuity; visible damage to pump.

Part: Drain pump assembly

Malfunctioning door lock or lid switch

How to Identify: Washer doesn’t initiate drain if lid/door safety interlock isn’t activating; error codes.

Part: Door lock/lid switch

Incorrect drain hose installation or level issues

How to Identify: Drain hose inserted incorrectly or washer unlevel; hose depth or height outside specifications.

Part: Drain hose installation, machine leveling

DIY Solutions

Clean the drain pump filter

Moderate 15–30 minutes

Tools Needed: Flathead screwdriver, Bucket or towels

1. Turn off washer and unplug it
2. Open the access panel (front or bottom) to reach the pump filter
3. Place a towel/bucket to catch water, unscrew filter cap
4. Remove debris and rinse filter under running water
5. Reinstall filter and run a test drain cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing internal components

Check and clear drain hose

Moderate 15–30 minutes

Tools Needed: Pliers, Bucket, Long flexible brush or plumbing snake

1. Unplug washer and pull it away from wall
2. Disconnect drain hose at washer and drain point
3. Inspect hose for kinks or blockages
4. Run water through hose or use brush/snake to clear obstructions
5. Reattach hose ensuring proper height and no sharp bends

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hose is correctly reattached to avoid leaks

Verify washer is level and hose installation height

Easy 10 minutes

Tools Needed: Level

1. Use a level on top of washer
2. Adjust feet to level machine
3. Confirm drain hose is properly seated and within Samsung height guidelines

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty drain pump

Estimated Cost: $70–$200 parts; $150–$300 labor

Repair or replace door lock/lid switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $30–$100 parts; $100–$250 labor

When to Call a Professional

Drain filter and hose cleaning do not restore drainage

Drain pump makes abnormal noise or fails electrical tests

Internal water remains after clearing external blockages

Error codes relating to motor or control board appear

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean drain pump filter: Clogs leading to drainage issues
  Frequency: monthly
• Inspect drain hose: Blockages and kinks that impede water flow
  Frequency: every 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Washing Machine not draining properly?

Common causes include a clogged drain pump filter, blocked drain hose, or issues with the drain pump.

How do I fix Samsung Washing Machine not draining properly myself?

You can clean the drain pump filter, check the drain hose for blockages, and ensure the washer is level.

How much does it cost to fix not draining properly?

Professional repair costs range from $70–$200 for parts and $150–$300 for labor.

When should I call a technician for not draining properly?

Call a technician if DIY solutions don't work or if the problem seems complex.

References & Sources

• Samsung washing machine does not drain (US support) Official
• Steps to resolve water drainage issues with your Samsung washer Official
• Samsung Washing Machine Not Draining? Here’s What to Do Repair-Blog

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Clogged drain filter (1 mentions)
• Faulty drain pump (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Check drain hose insertion depth, clean drain filter, and inspect drain pump.

   Success rate: 50.0%

Community Discussions

have to empty little hose after every wash

Check drain hose insertion depth, clean drain filter, and inspect drain pump.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair