Step 1: Open the panel
Locate the panel at the bottom of the front of your washing machine and press it to open.
How to drain a washing machine manually
Why might you need to drain your washing machine manually?
We know how frustrating and inconvenient it is when you go to collect your clothes from the washing machine, but water remains even though the cycle has finished. Your washing machine might stop draining mid-cycle for a number of reasons (a kink in the drain hose or a rogue item of clothing stuck in the drain pump, for example). If it’s not draining by itself, you’ll have to drain it manually before you attempt to repair it. It’s important you plan out how to go about it safely and in a way that avoids massive spills.
How do you drain your washing machine manually?
There are a few ways you can manually drain the water, depending on the type of machine you have. We've compiled some easy to follow instructions below, but if you'd prefer to follow the manufacturer's guidance, you can find the manual for most makes and models here.
For all washing machines you'll need a shallow basin or tray at hand to catch any run off water. You'll also have to press the start/stop button to stop the machine from running before attempting to drain the water. Once you've done this, follow the below steps...
Step 2: Prepare the area
Place the tray/basin under the panel.
Step 3: Find the drain pump filter/ drain hose
Locate the drain pump filter and the drain hose hidden away by the panel you’ve opened. (Not every washing machine will have a drain hose, but not to worry, we’ll cover that in the next step!)
Step 4: Start draining the water
If you have a drain hose, pull it out carefully and place it above the tray before unscrewing the cap. The water should start draining after a few seconds.
Some washing machines don’t have a drain hose. If that’s the case with yours, you can turn the drain pump filter anti-clockwise and pull it out, so the water can drain in the tray below.
Step 5: Put the drain pump filter/ drain hose back
Once the water stops coming out, either screw the cap of the drain hose back on or return the drain pump filter into it’s place and turn it clockwise until it’s secure and close the cover.
Step 6: All done!
The washing machine’s door should unlock shortly after.
Useful tip: If your washing machine is not draining properly, it might be because the filter’s been clogged. Not a lot of tenants know this, but the filter needs to be cleaned regularly to keep the washing machine in good working order. If you have to do a manual drain, it might be a good opportunity to make sure the filter is clean!
