Whirlpool Washing Machine: not filling or draining

Possible Causes

Clogged or kinked drain hose

How to Identify: Water remains in tub after cycle; visible hose kinks or debris visible at hose

Part: Drain hose

Blocked pump filter or pump obstruction

How to Identify: Water doesn’t drain, often accompanied by unusual noises when draining

Part: Pump filter / pump assembly

Water level sensor (pressure switch) malfunction

How to Identify: Machine won’t fill even with clear hoses and open valve; may not detect water level changes

Part: Water level sensor

Internal pump or motor failure

How to Identify: No drain function even after clearing hoses and filters; humming or no sound from pump

Part: Drain pump / motor

DIY Solutions

Check and clear drain hose

Easy 15–30 minutes

Tools Needed: bucket, gloves, screwdriver (if hose clamps)

1. Turn off and unplug washer
2. Inspect the drain hose for kinks and straighten
3. Remove hose at both ends and flush with water to clear debris
4. Reattach securely and test drain cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug machine before working

Clean water inlet filters

Moderate 20–40 minutes

Tools Needed: wrench, old toothbrush

1. Turn off water supply and unplug washer
2. Disconnect inlet hoses
3. Inspect and remove debris from small filter screens in hose inlets
4. Reconnect hoses and open water supply

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hoses are reconnected to avoid leaks

Unblock pump filter/pump area

Moderate 30–60 minutes

Tools Needed: towel, bucket, screwdriver

1. Unplug and turn off washer
2. Locate access panel and pump filter
3. Place towel/bucket under filter area
4. Remove filter and clear debris
5. Replace filter and test

⚠️ Safety First: Beware residual water spills

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

Replace drain pump/motor

Estimated Cost: $80–$200

Service water level sensor

Estimated Cost: $60–$150

When to Call a Professional

Water remains in drum after attempted DIY drain clearing

No improvement after cleaning inlet filters and hoses

Unusual noises from pump or electrical faults

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean inlet filters and hoses: Slow or no fill due to clogged debris
  Frequency: every 6 months
• Inspect drain hose for kinks: Drain issues due to hose obstruction
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not filling or draining?

Common causes include a clogged or kinked drain hose, blocked pump filter, or a malfunctioning water level sensor.

How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not filling or draining myself?

You can check and clear the drain hose, clean the water inlet filters, or unblock the pump filter area.

How much does it cost to fix not filling or draining?

Professional repairs can cost between $50–$150 for the water inlet valve and $80–$200 for the drain pump.

When should I call a technician for not filling or draining?

Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable performing repairs.

References & Sources

• Not Filling or Long Fill - Whirlpool Washer Official
• Whirlpool washer not fill DIY tips Community
• Whirlpool washer not draining common causes Community

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Water inlet valve malfunction (2 mentions)
• Drain pump failure (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replaced the drain pump after confirming it was shorted

   Success rate: 50.0%

2. Run the calibration cycle

   Success rate: 50.0%

Community Discussions

not filling or draining

Replaced the drain pump after confirming it was shorted; washer now works.

DIY View on Reddit →

Washing machine won't fill or drain

Run the calibration cycle to potentially resolve the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair