How to Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Top-Load Washing Machine That Won't Drain
Ben Schlichter and 2 other contributors
Last updated on Jun 8, 2026
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Introduction
Go to step 1 ↓If a Whirlpool top-load washer won’t drain, water can get trapped in the tub and leave clothes soaking wet. This guide shows safe ways to remove the water using the drain hose or a wet-dry vacuum, how to open a locked lid, and what to check for common drain problems like a bad hose setup, clogs, or excess suds.
What you need
Tools
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Slip-joint pliersOptional
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cardboard boxOptional
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Step 2 Drain the tub using the drain hose and a bucket
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Pull the drain hose out of the standpipe or sink drain.
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Place the end of the drain hose into a bucket positioned below the washer’s water level.
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Use a shallow bucket if needed so the hose end can sit closer to the floor for better draining.
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Let the water siphon out, and empty the bucket as it fills.
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Step 3 Open a locked lid
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Use a 1/4 inch hex driver to remove the three screws at the back of the washer top.
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Remove the metal cover plate after removing the screw that retains it.
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Pull the washer top toward the front, lift it up, and push it toward the back to release the hidden bracket.
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Align the two small metal tabs with the lid slots, and shift the top slightly until the tabs seat properly.
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Step 4 Remove remaining water with a wet-dry vacuum
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Use a wet-dry vacuum to suction water out of the tub until the water level is low enough to work safely.
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Step 5 Check the drain hose for common problems
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Check whether the drain hose is stuck deep down inside the standpipe, which can cause a backflow issue.
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Inspect the drain hose for kinks or visible obstructions that could block water flow.
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Straighten the hose and clear any visible blockage before trying to drain again.
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Step 6 Clear excess suds that can prevent draining
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Look for a lot of suds left in the drum after the water is out.
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If there are heavy suds, run a cycle with no clothes and use one cap full of fabric softener in place of detergent.
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Use a cup of vinegar in a no-clothes clean cycle as another way to purge persistent suds.
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Add a teaspoon of cooking oil in the next cycle if suds are still a problem.
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Step 7 Set up the washer safely to inspect underneath
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Tilt the washer backward or slide it until the bottom is fully accessible.
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Set the washer on a cardboard box if needed, and suspend the drain hose above the washer to prevent draining.
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Step 8 Inspect the drain pump and hoses for obstructions
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Locate the drain pump on the right side underneath the washer.
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Use slip-joint pliers to remove the hose clamp from the pump hose, and twist the hose while pulling to remove it.
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Disconnect the wire harness, and pivot the housing protector off if it covers the connector.
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Inspect the pump inlet, the outlet hose, and the pump housing for debris like bobby pins, toothpicks, or other blockages.
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Ask FixBot
If the hose routing, clogs, and suds issues check out but the washer still won’t drain, the next fault is often the drain pump or the control circuit feeding it. After reassembly, run a drain or rinse-and-spin cycle and watch closely for leaks before pushing the washer fully back into place. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.
