How to Empty a Washing Machine

Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to drain a washing machine:

Safety Precautions:

• Unplug the washer to ensure safety.
• Get help moving the washer, especially if it’s full of water.

How to Drain a Washing Machine Electronically:

1. Try the Spin Cycle: Set your machine to spin and see if it drains.
2. Pause and Leave Lid Open: This can sometimes trigger an automatic drain, but may take up to 24 hours.

Draining a Top-Load Washer:

If the Drain Hose is at the Bottom:

1. Unplug the Washer.
2. Move Washer to access the hose.
3. Locate the Drain Hose (usually black or gray).
4. Place Towels on the Ground and prepare a bucket.
5. Lift the Hose out of the pipe and into the bucket. Water will start draining.
6. Repeat until the water level is low.

Tools Needed:

• Tape, Towels, Bucket.

If the Drain Hose is at the Top:

1. Unplug the Washer and Tape the Cord.
2. Remove Wet Clothes and place them in a tub.
3. Place Towels and Buckets below the washer.
4. Fill a Hose with Water from the drum.
5. Start a Siphon: Move the hose into the bucket to begin draining. Switch buckets as needed.

Tools Needed:

• Tape, Towels, Two Buckets, 6-foot Hose.

Draining a Front-Load Washer:

1. Unplug the Washer and tape the cord.
2. Locate the Drain Filter (often behind a panel).
3. Place a Container under the filter.
4. Turn the Filter Knob slowly to drain water.
5. Repeat until all water is drained.

Tools Needed:

• Owner’s Manual, Screwdriver, Shallow Container, Towels.

If the Washer Still Doesn’t Drain:

1. Remove Clothes and bail out as much water as possible.
2. Unclog the Drain: Disconnect the hose and use a plumbing snake to remove any blockages.
3. Reassemble the washer and plug it back in.

Tools Needed:

• Cup or small pail, Pliers, Screwdriver, Towels, Plumbing Snake.

By following these steps, you can efficiently drain most types of washing machines!