How to Drain Water Out of a Washing Machine Safely
Learn a safe, practical method to remove standing water from your washing machine, including gravity drainage, pumping options, clog checks, and prevention tips.
To get water out washing machine, first unplug and move the unit to access the drain. Use the washing machine’s drain hose to discharge into a bucket or floor drain, keeping towels handy. If gravity drains slowly, use a submersible pump or wet/dry vac. Check for clogs, then reconnect and run a short rinse to verify it's drained.
Why water ends up in a washing machine and how to respond
Standing water in a washer is more common after heavy loads or when the drain path is partially blocked. When you ask how to get water out washing machine, safety remains the top priority. According to Best Washing Machine, always start by cutting power to the unit and unplugging the cord before touching any internal components. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, so keep the floor dry and avoid stepping on slick surfaces. The immediate goal is to remove as much water as possible without creating leaks or electrical hazards. In most homes, standing water comes from a kinked or blocked drain hose, a clogged lint filter or pump screen, a blocked standpipe, or a failed drain pump. Before you begin any disassembly or draining, inspect for obvious problems: loose hoses, detached clamps, or an unlevel machine. If you locate the drain hose behind the back panel, you’re ready to start the draining process with care.
Quick safety prep before draining
Before you touch the washer, cut power at the outlet or circuit breaker. If water covers the floor, place towels or a shallow tray to contain spills and protect nearby outlets. Wear rubber-soled shoes and use a flashlight to inspect hoses and clamps. Keep children and pets away from the area. Ground fault protection and dry hands help prevent shock. The goal is to create a safe, dry workspace so you can address the water without risk.
Manual drainage methods: gravity, drain hose, and containers
Gravity drainage relies on a lower drain point and a properly positioned hose. Start by locating the drain hose at the back of the machine, detach the securing clip, and guide the hose to a bucket or floor drain. Be sure the bucket is below the water level to maximize flow and minimize splashes. Use towels to catch any overflow and wipe up spills as you go. If the water drains slowly, inspect the hose for kinks, blockages, or a misaligned standpipe. A successfully drained machine should leave the tub nearly dry and the surrounding area clear of standing water.
When to use a pump or vacuum to remove water
If gravity drainage is slow or blocked, a small submersible pump or wet/dry vac can accelerate the process. Insert the hose into the bucket or drain and power on the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pumps are effective for larger volumes of water and can prevent overflow. If you use a wet/dry vac, avoid sucking up lint or detergent residue that could clog the filter. Always unplug the machine before switching devices and monitor the process closely.
Checking internal components: drain pump, filter, and hoses
After most of the water is drained, check the internal components for blockages. Remove any accessible lint filters or pump screens and rinse them with clean water. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or crushed sections and ensure clamps are secure. If you discover a clogged filter or hose, clear it carefully and reassemble. Some machines have a small check valve or filter near the pump—if present, clean it to restore proper water flow. If the pump itself sounds strained or fails to operate after clearing obstructions, this may indicate a faulty pump that requires professional service.
Clean-up, drying, and testing the drain
Once the water is removed, wipe down the tub and door seal to prevent mold growth. Dry the interior with towels and leave the door ajar for ventilation. Reconnect the drain hose and any platform or base panels that were moved. Run a short test cycle with no laundry to confirm that water drains correctly and no leaks occur. If any water remains or you notice unusual noises, stop the test and seek professional help. Regularly inspect hoses and clamps to catch issues early.
Tools & Materials
- Bucket (5–8 liters)(Place under drain hose to collect water)
- Towels or absorbent mats(Catch spills and protect floor)
- Flashlight(Inspect hoses and clamps behind panel)
- Pliers or screwdriver (if needed to loosen clamps)(Only if clamps are tight or corroded)
- Submersible pump or wet/dry vac (optional)(Useful for large amounts of water or slow drains)
Steps
Estimated time: 20-45 minutes
- 1
Power down and prepare
Unplug the washer and ensure the area around it is dry. This minimizes the risk of shock and gives you clear access to hoses and the drain. If you’re working on a wall outlet, consider turning off the circuit breaker for added safety.
Tip: Keep a dry, non-slip mat under the unit to reduce slips during draining. - 2
Access the drain hose
Move the washer slightly to access the drain hose at the back. Identify any clamps and detach the hose carefully from the standpipe or drain outlet. Have a bucket ready to catch any initial water as you free the hose.
Tip: If you cannot reach the hose, use a flashlight to locate clamps and ensure you don’t pinch the hose during removal. - 3
Begin gravity drainage
Place the hose end into a bucket or directly over a floor drain. Keep the bucket lower than the hose outlet to promote flow. Allow water to drain slowly and monitor for overflow; adjust the hose angle as needed.
Tip: Angling the hose downward helps gravity do the work; don’t bend the hose sharply. - 4
Deal with slow drainage
If water isn’t flowing freely, inspect the hose for kinks or crushes and check the drain path for clogs. Remove any blockages with gloves and re-seat the hose.
Tip: Do not force the hose; a gentle straighten and realignment often solves partial blockages. - 5
Use a pump or vacuum if needed
For large volumes or stubborn water, deploy a submersible pump or wet/dry vac. Don’t run it while the hose is connected to the drain. Monitor for debris that can clog the device.
Tip: Follow device instructions and never smoke or expose power tools to water. - 6
Check the pump and reassemble
After water is drained, reattach the drain hose securely, test for leaks, and run a short, empty cycle to confirm proper drainage. If the pump or any hose leaks, consider professional service.
Tip: Document any leaks or noises for future reference when contacting a technician.
FAQ
What should I do first if I notice standing water in my washing machine?
First unplug the machine and assess for obvious clogs or kinks in the drain hose. Then prepare a bucket and towels before attempting drainage.
First unplug the machine, check for hose kinks, and get a bucket ready before you drain.
Can I drain water without unplugging the machine?
For safety, always unplug the unit before handling hoses or filters. If you must, switch off the circuit breaker and wait for any residual power to clear.
It's safest to unplug or switch off the breaker before handling any parts.
What if the water won't drain at all?
If water remains after trying gravity drainage, inspect the drain hose and pump area for clogs, then consider using a pump or seeking professional service if the pump might be faulty.
If it won’t drain, inspect for clogs and consider a pump or professional help.
Is it safe to use a submersible pump to remove water?
Yes, using a submersible pump can speed up removal, but follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and keep the device away from water when not actively pumping.
A small submersible pump is safe if you follow the instructions and stay safe.
How can I prevent this from happening again?
Regularly inspect and clean the drain hose, standpipe, and pump filter. Ensure hoses are straight and secure, and avoid overloading the washer to prevent leaks and clogs.
Keep hoses clear and check filters routinely to stop problems before they start.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Unplug before attempting any drain work.
- Use gravity drainage first and then a pump if needed.
- Inspect hoses and filters for clogs to restore drainage.
- Test with an empty cycle to confirm no leaks.
- Prevent future problems with regular hose and filter checks.
