Whirlpool Washing Machine: pump failure

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool washing machine failing to drain properly? Symptoms of pump failure include water remaining in the tub after a wash or spin cycle, slow drainage, and unusual noises during the drain process. These issues often indicate a problem with the drain pump that needs addressing.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

Drain hose should not extend more than ~4.5" into drainpipe to avoid siphoning back water
Some Whirlpool models have drain pump access at the bottom front via a filter cover

Possible Causes

Clogged drain pump or inlet

How to Identify: Washer holds water after cycle, slow draining, debris seen in filter or pump housing

Part: Drain pump / inlet screen

Drain hose blockage or incorrect hose installation

How to Identify: Water not exiting, hose bent/kinked, or hose inserted too far into drain causing siphoning

Part: Drain hose

Drain pump motor failure

How to Identify: Pump makes no noise at all during drain cycle, multimeter shows no motor continuity

Part: Drain pump motor

Wires/connectors to pump are loose or damaged

How to Identify: Intermittent drain function or error codes, visual wiring damage

Part: Pump wiring harness/connectors

Control board not commanding pump

How to Identify: Pump receives power tests but does not run; multiple symptoms beyond drain

Part: Main control board

DIY Solutions

Clean drain pump filter and remove debris

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, towel

Unplug washer and locate drain pump filter (usually bottom front)
Place towel and slowly open filter cover
Remove lint, coins, and debris from filter and pump inlet
Close filter and test drain cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug machine before access to pump area

Check and clear drain hose

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: bucket, flashlight, wire or drain snake

Unplug washer and detach drain hose
Inspect hose for kinks or debris
Use wire/snake to clear blockages
Reattach hose ensuring correct height and gentle curve

⚠️ Safety First: Be careful not to damage hose while clearing

Test pump motor with multimeter

Advanced 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers

Unplug washer and access drain pump
Disconnect pump wiring and test resistance of pump motor
If no continuity or open circuit, pump likely bad

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Repair wiring harness or control board

Estimated Cost: $100 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Pump motor shows no signs of life after DIY tests

Internal electrical faults suspected

Control board issues suspected

Preventive Maintenance

Clean pump filter regularly: Clogs leading to pump failure
Frequency: monthly
Avoid washing small loose items without laundry bag: Objects entering pump and blocking impeller
Frequency: each wash

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine pump failure?

Common causes include a clogged drain pump, blocked drain hose, or a failed drain pump motor.

How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine pump failure myself?

You can clean the drain pump filter, check the drain hose for blockages, or test the pump motor with a multimeter.

How much does it cost to fix pump failure?

Replacing the drain pump assembly costs between $50 - $150, while repairs to wiring or control board range from $100 - $350.

When should I call a technician for pump failure?

If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're unsure about testing electrical components, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Washer Not Draining or Spinning? Troubleshooting Guide Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Clogged drain filter or hose
Faulty pump motor
Electrical issues (wiring or control board malfunction)

User Suggested Solutions

Check and clear the drain filter and hose. Disconnect the washer, locate the drain filter (usually at the front bottom), remove any debris, and ensure the hose is free from blockages.
Inspect the pump motor for damage. If the motor is not functioning, replace it by removing the old pump and installing a new one, ensuring to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Check electrical connections and the control board. Use a multimeter to test for continuity in the wiring and inspect the control board for any signs of damage. Replace any faulty components as needed.