How To Fix Washing Machine Drain Overflows
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If your washing machine’s drain is overflowing, the problem could be as simple as a clogged drainpipe or as serious as a main sewer line blockage. No matter what’s causing the overflow, addressing the issue as soon as possible may prevent lasting damage to your home. We’ll show you how to diagnose the problem, provide instructions for a do-it-yourself (DIY) fix, and let you know when it’s time to call in the experts.
How a Washing Machine Drains
At the end of a cycle, your washing machine removes water from its tub using a pump that forces water into a drain hose. This hose curves up and out of the machine to meet the standpipe that’s typically located near your hot and cold water supply valves. If your washer and its parts work as they should, water moves through the hose and into the standpipe where it’s eventually carried to your home’s main sewage line.
When any part of the process malfunctions, the washing machine’s drainage system may overflow, requiring swift action to identify and fix the issue.
How To Diagnose an Issue With Your Drain
First, you’ll need to confirm that your washer’s drain line is the issue. Some advanced washing machines have signal errors to identify the cause of a leak, but you’ll need to run your own diagnostic test with most models.
Start by running your washer through a drain cycle. Observe the washing machine as it pumps water into the hoses and up into the standpipe. If you see water back up and out of the standpipe, your washer’s drain is most likely the issue.
The amount of time it takes for the standpipe to fill up and overflow helps you diagnose where the clog is located. Here’s what each time frame might mean:
- A few seconds—If the pipe fills up and overflows within seconds, the clog is most likely located near the standpipe’s surface or in a washing machine hose. If the clog is small, you may be able to clear it with a hand-operated snake.
- 30 seconds to a minute—If the stoppage doesn’t cause the water to surface for 30 seconds or more, the clog may be deeper in the drainpipe system. This may require a long drain snake to reach deep into the pipe and free the clog. If you can’t reach the clog with your snake, contact a plumber to assess the proper course of action.
- More than a minute—Water that takes more than a minute to overflow after entering the drainage pipe may indicate a more severe blockage deeper within the plumbing system. Contact a licensed plumber to inspect your home’s sewage lines and identify the issue.
How To Operate a Drain Snake
Many soft-debris clogs that reside in a washing machine hose, standpipe, or plumbing system can be cleared with a drain auger, also known as a drain snake. If you don’t have one, they can usually be rented from your local hardware store. Some electrically powered, hand-operated drain snakes are less likely to damage your plumbing. To operate a snake, follow these steps:
- Push the tip of the cable into the drain opening and turn the handle on the drum to release it into the pipe. You may need to loosen a thumbscrew on the drum to allow the cable to unspool.
- Keep pushing the head of the snake deeper into the pipe until you feel resistance.
- Tighten the thumbscrew, then rotate the snake clockwise or counterclockwise until you feel the clog break free.
- Loosen the thumbscrew once again, then pull the snake out of the drain.
- Repeat a drain cycle to ensure the pipe is clear and can drain.
If the drain snake meets resistance but these steps don’t work, the clog may be made of material that’s too hard for the tip of the cable to snag, such as a tree root. In this case, you’ll need to call a plumber. Another culprit could be your city’s sewage system being improperly maintained, resulting in your main line backing up.
How To Prevent Your Drain From Overflowing
To reduce the likelihood of a washing machine drain overflow, clean and inspect your washer and its parts regularly.
- Use a garment bag or lint bag when appropriate to prevent the excess buildup of lint inside the drainpipes.
- If it’s accessible, inspect and clean your washer’s lint trap or filter.
- Ensure there’s at least 1/2 inch between the drainpipe and discharge hose to promote proper drainage.
- Use the correct detergent to prevent the buildup of soap residue.
- Clean your washing machine hoses and drainpipe regularly.
Repairing or Replacing Your Washing Machine
Like all major systems and appliances, your washing machine is likely to endure normal wear and tear over time. To cover repair costs due to your washing machine or another appliance breaking down in the course of normal use, we recommend that homeowners consider a home warranty.
Typically, home warranty plans cost $45-$72 per month. Whenever a covered system or appliance breaks down due to normal wear and tear, homeowners with a home warranty plan only have to pay a service fee—usually in the range of $75 to $125—to have the item repaired or replaced. This can save a lot of money in the long run, particularly for older homes or expensive appliances like a washing machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my washing machine keep draining?
If your washing machine drains while filling, check that the washer’s drain hose isn’t placed too far into the standpipe, as there needs to be an air gap to prevent premature draining. Additionally, ensure that the bend in your drain hose is above the height of the washing machine. Once the hose is in the proper position, use zip ties to secure it in place.
What causes a washing machine drain to overflow?
The most common reason for overflowing is a blockage in the drain hose or standpipe. Kinked hoses and wrong-sized pipes can also cause overflows.
Can I put Drano down my washing machine drain?
Yes, Drano or any drain cleaner can be used to unclog your washing machine drain. However, don’t put the Drano in the washing machine itself, and make sure you run the washer without a load of laundry before normal use.
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