A washer that won't drain is usually a blockage in the filter, coin trap, or drain hose — not a bad control board.
Before you start
- Unplug the washer! Water + power is no joke.
- Keep towels/pan ready — some washers hold several liters of water.
1) Access the drain filter/coin trap
- Front-loaders often have a small lower front panel or door. Place a shallow pan, twist the filter cap slowly, and let water out gently.
- Remove debris (coins, hair ties, lint). Check the filter cavity for obstructions and spin the pump impeller with a finger — should turn freely.
2) Inspect the drain hose
- Look for kinks or crush points behind the machine. Pull the hose from the standpipe/basin and check for clogs (lint “jelly,” socks, detergent buildup).
- If you can blow air through it easily, it's likely clear.
3) Listen to the drain pump
- If it hums but doesn’t move water, the impeller might be jammed or the pump is failing.
- If it’s silent, confirm power during the drain cycle (tech step). Many failures are mechanical—impeller detached from the motor shaft.
4) Run a short test
- Refit the filter snugly (don’t cross-thread). Run a rinse-and-spin. Watch for leaks.
Prevention
- Use mesh laundry bags for small items.
- Clean the filter every 2–3 months.
- Use HE detergent and measure—excess suds slow draining and can trick pressure sensors.
If the tub still won’t drain and the pump runs strongly, the standpipe may be blocked—a plumber might be the next call.