If you have an Electrolux washing machine that is not draining properly, it can be a frustrating problem. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially repair the issue yourself. With some basic mechanical skills and diagnostic tests, you may be able to get your washer draining again without the expense of calling a service technician.
Common Causes of Draining Issues
There are a few common causes of drainage problems with Electrolux washers:
- Clogged or kinked drain hose
- Clogged pump filter
- Faulty drain pump
- Blocked drain pipe
- Defective lid switch
- Worn out pump belt
- Clogged sump hose filter
The specific problem will determine the steps you’ll need to take to get your washer draining properly again. Let’s look at each of these common causes in more detail.
Clogged or Kinked Drain Hose
One of the most common reasons an Electrolux washer won’t drain is because the drain hose is either clogged or kinked. The drain hose is the flexible rubber hose that runs from the back of the washer to the standpipe, laundry tub, or other drain receptacle.
Over time, small articles of clothing, lint, and other debris can get stuck in the hose and restrict water flow. If the drain hose is kinked, bent, or otherwise restricted, it can prevent proper water flow as well.
To check for a clogged or kinked drain hose:
- Pull the washer away from the wall and disconnect the drain hose from the back.
- Inspect the hose for any kinks, cracks, or obstructions.
- Run water through the hose to ensure there is no clogging.
- Reconnect the hose and make sure there are no kinks when you push the washer back into place.
Adjusting the drain hose to prevent kinks and removing any stuck debris in the hose will often get the washer draining properly again.
Clogged Pump Filter
Another common drainage problem with Electrolux washers is a clogged pump filter. The filter is located inside the pump and is designed to catch small objects, lint, and sediment before it goes down the drain. Over time, this filter can get clogged up and prevent the washer from draining.
To clean out the pump filter:
- Locate the access panel on the front of the washer. It may have a small door or may require removing a larger panel.
- Once opened, you should see the drain pump housing.
- There will be a filter inside that needs to be removed and cleaned out.
- Remove any lint, debris, or objects that are clogging the filter. You may need to rinse it under running water if there is a lot of buildup.
- Reinsert the cleaned filter back into the pump housing and replace any panels.
Cleaning this pump filter to remove built-up debris is often all that’s required to resolve any drainage issues. Just be sure to replace the filter correctly before running the washer again.
Faulty Drain Pump
If cleaning the pump filter does not resolve the problem, then the drain pump itself may be faulty. The pump uses an impeller system to force water out of the washer tub and into the drain hose. If this pump becomes damaged or defective, the washer will no longer drain properly.
Signs that the drain pump itself is faulty:
- You cleaned the filter thoroughly but the washer still won’t drain
- You hear the pump running but water does not drain
- The pump makes odd noises during the drain cycle
- You get an error code related to drainage issues
To fully test if the pump is working, you’ll need to disconnect the pump hoses and power on the washer to activate the drain cycle. The pump should turn on and work normally, pushing water through the outlet hose. If the pump does not come on or drains weakly, then it will need to be replaced.
Replacement drain pumps are readily available for purchase for most Electrolux washer models. With basic skills and proper safety precautions when working with electrical connections, you can replace the pump yourself. Make sure to follow all instructions that come with a new pump.
Blocked Drain Pipe
If the drain pump and hose appear to be clear, the next thing to check is whether your home’s drain pipe system has a clog. It’s possible for sinks, showers, tubs, and other drains to drain slowly and back up an Electrolux washer.
Check for signs of a blocked drain:
- Other drains in your home drain slowly
- Water pools around drain receptacle when washer tries to pump out
- Gurgling noises come from the drain pipe when washer drains
You’ll need to thoroughly inspect and clear any clogs in your home’s drain pipes. Using a plunger, plumbing snake, or drain clearing chemicals can help remove blockages. For severe clogs, you may need to call a professional plumber.
Once any clogs are fully cleared, run the washer again to confirm there is no longer any backup from the household drain pipes that prevent proper drainage.
Defective Lid Switch
Many Electrolux washers will not proceed to drain and spin if the washer lid is open and the lid safety switch is not engaged. This prevents the drum from spinning rapidly if the door is open.
However, if the lid switch becomes defective, even with the door shut properly, the washer may think the door is still open and will not drain or spin.
Signs of a faulty lid switch:
- Washer stops and displays error message during cycle
- Washer won’t spin or drain with door shut
To determine if the switch is faulty, you’ll need to bypass it temporarily to see if the washer will then drain and spin with the door open. This involves disconnecting the switch from the control circuitry. Refer to your model’s wiring diagram and use caution working with electrical connections.
If the washer successfully drains after bypassing the switch, then you can replace the lid switch with a new part. For safety, always re-connect the lid switch again even if the new part is installed.
Worn Out Pump Belt
Some older Electrolux washer models utilize a belt system to drive the pump responsible for draining. If this belt becomes excessively worn, stretched out, or broken, the drain pump will no longer circulate water out of the machine.
Warning signs of a bad pump belt include:
- Burning rubber smell from washer
- High pitched squealing noise during pump operation
- Visible fraying, cracking, or breaks on the belt
You’ll need to disassemble the washer cabinet and access the belt system. Check the condition of the belt looking for worn, cracked, or broken sections. Test the tension of the belt, tightening it if loose or replacing the belt if damaged.
Consult your specific model’s repair manual for detailed steps on how to remove and replace the pump belt. Replacing worn pump belts is a common repair for maintaining older washers.
Clogged Sump Hose Filter
Some Electrolux washers have an additional filter where the drain pump suction hose attaches to the tub sump called the sump filter. Debris can collect here and block water flow even if the main pump filter is clean.
To inspect and clean the sump hose filter:
- Locate the rubber or plastic hose connecting the tub to the pump.
- Disconnect the hose and check for a small filter inside the sump opening.
- Remove any lint or debris clogging the filter mesh.
- Flush the filter out completely under running water if needed.
- Reconnect the hose and make sure the filter is seated properly.
If the washer now drains properly, then a clogged sump hose filter was likely the cause of the problem. Be sure to fully snap the hose back in place when done.
Getting Professional Assistance
While many draining issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting steps, some problems may require professional service. If you have completed the steps outlined in this article and the washer still fails to drain or displays an error code, then you may need to call in a trained appliance repair technician.
A technician will have specialized skills and tools to fully diagnose complex problems and access internal washer components. They may be able to replace defective parts or fix mechanical failures beyond DIY abilities.
Professional appliance repair services are available from independent providers, Electrolux authorized service centers, and original retailers like Best Buy. Costs range from $70 to $200 per hour depending on the specific repair requirements.
Calling in professional assistance is recommended if:
- The washer is still under original 1-5 year warranty coverage
- You are unable to isolate the failed component based on troubleshooting
- Internal disassembly is required to make the needed repair
- Electrical testing and troubleshooting is needed
Checking your owner’s manual or Electrolux website for authorized service centers is the best option for professional appliance repair. They have the skills, parts availability, and service history records to quickly troubleshoot and fix Electrolux washing machines.
Preventing Future Drainage Problems
Once you have your Electrolux washer draining properly again, there are some steps you can take to prevent future clogs and drainage issues:
- Periodically inspect and clean the drain pump filter
- Use drain cleaning chemicals to break down detergent buildup
- Avoid overloading the washer tub with laundry
- Ensure bulky items like comforters have space to move freely
- Detach and rinse out the drain hose every 3-6 months
- Clean the sump filter whenever you service the main filter
- Avoid tightly kinking or coiling the drain hose
Catching and clearing drain clogs early before they become severe blockages will optimize your washer’s performance and lifespan. Letting the washer drain completely between cycles will also help prevent stagnant water buildup.
When to Replace an Old Washer
If your Electrolux washer is several years old and you’ve had multiple repairs done, it may be time to consider a brand new replacement washer. As appliances age, the frequency and cost of repairs tend to increase while energy efficiency and performance decline.
Newer washers also have updated technology like high-efficiency operation, noise reduction, WiFi connectivity, troubleshooting alerts, and antimicrobial components.
Watch for these warning signs it may be time to replace an aging Electrolux washer:
- Frequent breakdowns and repairs needed
- Difficulty finding replacement authentic OEM parts
- Outdated technology lacking desired features
- Increased energy and water usage
- Persistent vibrations indicating mechanical issues
- Rust or leaks developing in the wash tub
- Strange odors coming from washer
With the average washer lasting around 10 years, an older failing model may merit replacement over continued repairs. Consulting with appliance sales experts can help narrow down the perfect new washer choice for your household needs and budget.
Summary
Electrolux washers are well engineered for reliability, but drainage problems can still arise. By methodically troubleshooting each potential cause, you can often locate the specific problem. Clearing drain obstructions, replacing worn parts, and fixing mechanical failures will typically get your washer draining normally again. Or know when it’s time to call in a professional service technician.
Stay proactive with periodic maintenance and cleaning to maximize the lifespan of your Electrolux washer. But also be prepared to purchase a shiny new washer if your current model is clearly aging out. With some persistence and dedication to identifying the true root cause, a non-draining Electrolux washer can be fixed and returned to smooth operation.