When a washing machine leaves water in the drum after a cycle, the cause is often a blockage rather than a major fault. Here are six checks you can do safely before you call a technician.
1. Switch off and unplug
Always disconnect the machine from the mains before touching any part of it.
2. Check the drain hose
Look for kinks or bends in the outlet hose behind the machine. Straighten them and make sure the hose is not pushed too far into the standpipe.
3. Clean the drain filter
Most front-load machines have a small filter behind a panel at the bottom. Place a tray under it, open it slowly and remove coins, lint or hair pins.
4. Look at the drain pump
If you can hear the pump humming but no water leaves the drum, a foreign object may be stuck in the impeller.
5. Try a drain-only cycle
After cleaning, run a short drain or spin programme to check that the water leaves.
6. Note the error code
Many machines show a code for drainage problems. Write it down; it helps the technician bring the right part.
If the machine still does not drain, the pump, pressure switch or control board may need replacement. Book a washing machine technician and we will diagnose it at home.