Why Washing Machine Has Water in It: Troubleshooting Guide
Urgent guide to diagnose and fix water in your washer drum. Learn common causes, quick tests, safe steps, and when to call a pro. Includes prevention tips and a DIY checklist from Best Washing Machine.
Most water in the drum after a cycle is caused by drainage or seal issues. Start by checking the drain hose for kinks or improper height, then inspect and clean the pump filter, and verify the drain pump runs during a drain. If water remains after these checks, unplug the washer and contact a technician.
Why the phrase "why washing machine has water in it" matters
Water in the drum after a cycle is a common, urgent problem that signals drainage, seal, or valve issues. The root cause is rarely the drum itself, and faster troubleshooting reduces the risk of mold and water damage. According to Best Washing Machine, most cases stem from drainage components rather than the drum, so start with the drain path and seals. We'll walk you through practical checks, safe tests, and step-by-step fixes to restore normal operation quickly. Expect up-front checks, then progressive tests that escalate only as needed. This approach minimizes cost and downtime while preserving the washer’s lifespan. The goal is to stop water from stagnating in the tub and prevent damage to surrounding floors and cabinetry.
As you work, keep the laundry area dry and wear low-slip footwear. If you notice unusual noises, burning smells, or scorch marks, stop immediately and seek professional help. This guide is designed for homeowners, renters, and anyone who wants to fix a washer safely without guessing.
Quick checks you can perform safely
Before you tear the machine apart, perform a few safety-driven checks. Unplug the washer and cut the water supply at the shutoff valve. Look for standing water around the base and around the hoses. Inspect the power cord and outlet for obvious faults. Check that the laundry load isn't overfilled and that the door or lid is properly closed. If you see leaks, note their location. These quick tests can reveal simple, low-cost fixes and prevent unnecessary service calls. If you detect mold or a persistent odor, address it promptly to protect your home's air and surfaces.
Safety note: never reach into moving parts. If the access panel requires tools you don’t have, stop and call a professional.
Check the drain path: drain hose, pump, and lint filter
The most common reason for water lingering in the drum is a blocked or misrouted drainage path. Start by unplugging, removing the access panel if needed, and locating the drain hose. Ensure it is not kinked and that it runs to a standpipe at the correct height. Remove the pump lint filter and clean out lint, coins, or threads. Rinse and reassemble. Then run a test cycle to see whether the drum empties properly. If you notice the pump is grinding or failing to start, that points toward a motor or impeller issue that may require replacement. Remember to check the drain hose connection at the rear of the machine; a loose clamp can let water back into the tub.
Inspect the water inlet valve and supply lines
A faulty inlet valve or clogged supply line can allow water to enter or stay in the drum. Check the hoses for kinks and ensure the valve is fully closing after the fill. Listen for a constant trickle when the machine should be idle. If you notice mineral buildup, replace the valve or hoses as needed. This is often a mid-level fix that may require a professional for valve replacement. Leaks around the valve can also cause water to pool in the drum, so inspect the area for damp spots and tighten fittings if you have the right tooling.
Backflow, siphoning, and hose routing
Sometimes water returns to the drum due to siphoning or improper drain hose routing. Ensure the drain line height is within the manufacturer’s recommended range and that the end of the hose is not inserted too far into the standpipe or drain. If the drain hose is connected to a sink or tub, ensure the trap is intact and there are no additional backflow paths. Re-route the hose if necessary and test again. Incorrect routing can cause slow drainage, leaving standing water in the drum after cycles.
Step-by-step: fix most common causes (pump filter, drainage test, seals)
- Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply. 2) Inspect and clean the pump filter; remove lint, coins, or threads. 3) Check the drain hose for kinks and confirm proper height. 4) Run a drain cycle to observe if water exits the tub. 5) Inspect door seal and tub-to-pump seals for cracks or gaps; reseal or replace as needed. 6) Reassemble, run a small test load, and confirm complete drainage. If water persists, the issue may require a professional inspection for valve, pump, or internal leaks.
Tip: Label any disconnected hoses to avoid misconnection and take photos before disassembly for reference.
Safety notes, warnings, and when to call a professional
If you smell burning insulation, hear unusual noises during operation, or see visible leaks that you cannot stop, power down immediately and call a licensed technician. Do not operate the washer with damaged wiring or cracked hoses. Water damage can lead to mold growth and electrical hazards. Always disconnect power before handling any internal components and use a grounded outlet with a GFCI if available.
Prevention: how to avoid water in the drum in the future
Regular maintenance reduces the chance of water remaining in the tub. Clean the lint filter monthly, inspect hoses for wear, and run a monthly maintenance cycle with a descaler or cleaner suitable for your model. Avoid overloading the drum, use correct detergent quantities, and ensure the drain standpipe height matches the manufacturer’s specification. Periodically inspect the door seal for cracks and replace as needed. Keeping the area dry and ventilated also helps prevent mold and odors.
Steps
Estimated time: 30-45 minutes
- 1
Power down and prepare
Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply. Move the unit to a clear working area and lay down a towel to catch any stray water. Gather tools and have a container ready to catch water from the pump.
Tip: Always set the washer on a dry, non-slip surface before starting. - 2
Inspect drain hose and routing
Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine. Check for kinks, blockages, or detachment. Ensure the hose end is secured at the correct height in a standpipe or drain, as specified by your model's manual.
Tip: Take a photo of the hose setup before making changes. - 3
Clean the pump filter
Open the access panel (or remove the filter cover) and remove the pump lint filter. Clear out lint, coins, hair, and threads. Rinse the filter under running water and reinstall securely.
Tip: Do not use sharp tools that could damage the plastic housing. - 4
Run a drain test
Plug in the unit, select a drain/fill cycle, and observe whether water drains completely. If water remains, note at which stage the flow stops to guide the next check.
Tip: If the drum doesn’t drain, the pump or wiring may be faulty. - 5
Check inlet valve and hoses
Simultaneously inspect the water inlet valve and hoses for leaks. If you see mineral buildup, consider replacing the valve or hoses. Ensure the valve seals when the machine is idle.
Tip: Replace old hoses, especially if they show cracking or bulging. - 6
Reassemble and test with a small load
Reattach any panels, reconnect hoses, and run a small load through a complete wash and drain cycle to confirm the issue is resolved.
Tip: Always monitor the first test run for any new leaks or unusual sounds.
Diagnosis: Water remains in drum after cycle or leaks into tub during operation
Possible Causes
- highBlocked or misrouted drain path (hose, pump, filter)
- mediumFaulty inlet valve or leaky supply line
- lowBackflow or siphoning from an improper drain setup
Fixes
- easyUnplug, access pump filter, clean lint, and test drainage cycle; ensure the hose is straight and unclamped
- mediumInspect inlet valve and hoses for kinks or mineral buildup; replace valve if it does not close properly
- easyVerify drain routing and standpipe height; re-route if siphoning is suspected
FAQ
Why is there water in my washing machine after finishing a cycle?
Commonly this means a drainage or inlet issue rather than a problem with the tub. Start by inspecting the drain hose, pump, and filter, then check the inlet valve for leaks.
Most often, water after a cycle means drainage or valve issues. Begin with the drain path and inlet valve checks.
What should I check first if my washer won’t drain?
Check the drain hose for kinks, confirm proper height, and clean the pump filter. If the pump isn’t running, you may need professional service.
If it won’t drain, start with the hose and filter, then verify the pump is working.
Can siphoning cause water to back into the drum?
Yes. Ensure the drain hose is correctly routed and not inserted too far into a standpipe, which can cause backflow into the tub.
Backflow is possible if the drain hose is incorrectly routed.
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Clean the filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and what you wash. A clogged filter can prevent proper drainage.
Clean the filter every few months or when you notice slow draining.
When should I replace the inlet valve?
If the valve does not shut off completely or presents mineral buildup, replacement is usually required. A professional can confirm valve integrity.
If it leaks or won’t close, replace the inlet valve.
Is this safe to fix myself, or should I call a pro?
Simple checks (hose routing, filter cleaning) are safe for most DIYers. More complex parts (valve, pump, or internal leaks) should be handled by a licensed technician.
Start with simple checks; call a pro for parts replacement or internal issues.
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The Essentials
- Identify drainage issues first; most water-in-drum cases arise there.
- Clean the pump filter and verify drain hose routing before valve work.
- Use a staged approach: test drainage, then inspect inlet valves if needed.
- Call a professional when you detect electrical concerns or persistent leaks.
