None Washing Machine: drain pump running constantly
What is this symptom?
If your washing machine's drain pump is running constantly, it may indicate a problem with the drain hose, blockages, or a faulty pressure switch. This can lead to continuous noise and prevent your wash cycle from progressing properly. Diagnosing the cause promptly can save you time and money.
Possible Causes
Drain hose installation or siphoning issue
How to Identify: Pump runs continuously and water flows out of the drum even when machine should be filling or idle; drain hose may be installed too low or incorrectly, causing siphoning. Confirm hose height per manual.
Part: Drain hose/installation
Blockage in drain system (hose, filter, pump inlet)
How to Identify: Pump runs but water level doesn’t drop as expected; visible clogs or water backing up. Debris present in pump filter or hose.
Part: Drain hose, pump filter
Faulty water level/pressure switch
How to Identify: Pump runs regardless of actual water level; error codes related to water level may appear; pressure switch tube may be blocked.
Part: Pressure switch (water level sensor)
Control board/electronic issue
How to Identify: No error codes; abnormal electrical behaviour; pump stays powered without correct cycle control.
Part: Control board
Faulty water inlet valve causing loop
How to Identify: Water continues entering the drum while pump is draining, creating a loop.
Part: Water inlet valve
DIY Solutions
Check and correct drain hose installation
- Turn off and unplug washer
- Confirm drain hose height and positioning according to manual (typically above certain height)
- Reposition hose to the correct level and secure properly
- Run a short cycle to test if pump stops
Clear drain hose and pump filter blockages
- Unplug washer
- Locate and remove pump filter or access panel
- Place bucket to catch water and open filter housing
- Remove debris from filter and inspect hose
- Reconnect and test a cycle
Inspect pressure switch tube
- Unplug washer
- Locate pressure switch and thin tube
- Disconnect tube and inspect for blockage
- Blow gently through tube to clear obstruction
- Reconnect and test machine
Next step
Choose the next step for drain pump running constantly
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drain Hose
Carries waste water from the drain pump to your home's standpipe or sink drain.
- Typical part-only price
- $15 - $30
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Pressure Switch
Detects the water level inside the tub and signals when to start or stop filling.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Water Inlet Valve
Controls the flow of hot and cold water into the appliance.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace pressure switch or sensor
Control board repair or replacement
Replace drain pump if mechanically stuck
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean pump filter and check drain hose: Clogs that cause continuous pump running
Frequency: monthly -
Inspect pressure switch tubing: False water level readings
Frequency: annually -
Check proper drain hose installation: Siphoning and unintended constant drain
Frequency: after installation/move
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Any Washing Machine drain pump running constantly?
How do I fix Any Washing Machine drain pump running constantly myself?
How much does it cost to fix drain pump running constantly?
When should I call a technician for drain pump running constantly?
References & Sources
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Clogged drain filter or hose
- Faulty pressure switch
- Wiring issues or short circuit
User Suggested Solutions
-
Check and clean the drain filter and hose. Disconnect the washing machine from power, locate the drain filter (usually at the front bottom), remove it, and clean any debris. Also, check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
-
Test the pressure switch for proper operation. Access the pressure switch by removing the control panel, check for blockages in the hose connected to it, and ensure it clicks when pressed. Replace if faulty.
-
Inspect wiring for damage. Unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and visually inspect wiring connections to the drain pump and pressure switch for any signs of wear or damage. Repair or replace as necessary.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
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Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
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