Standing water in your washing machine after a cycle is more than just inconvenient—it can be a sign of a mechanical issue or blockage that needs attention. For many homeowners, finding the cause of a washing machine filled with water can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you may be able to diagnose and resolve the issue on your own. In this guide, we’ll walk through common causes, practical DIY tips, and long-term care practices to help you prevent future water issues in your laundry room.
If the Water is Staying in the Washing Machine
Let’s begin with one of the most common scenarios: your washing machine finishes a cycle, but the water remains in the machine. This kind of issue usually signals that water isn’t draining as it should.
After your load finishes, does the water remain in the machine, or does it drain very slowly? The issue lies with the washer. You can usually trace this problem to the washing machine drain hose (which comes out of the machine), the lid switch, or the drain pump (an internal issue that prevents the machine from draining water appropriately).
There are generally two types of washing machines: front-loading and top-loading. Both options will connect to a washing machine drain pipe. Keep in mind that both top-loading and front-loading machines can experience issues such as kinks or blockages in the drain hose, clogs in the drain line, or sediment buildup at the bottom of the machine.
Troubleshooting this is simple enough, and with a bit of know-how, you can diagnose the problem. Use pliers to squeeze the spring fitting or a screwdriver to loosen the clamp, detach the drain tube from the washer drain, and blow inside.
If nothing is blocking the air from flowing through, the problem may be with the washing machine drum itself. Typically, the problem is either a lid switch or the water pump, and not the washer’s drain cycle or water line. A malfunctioning pump or blocked drain filter can also prevent water from exiting the clothes washer correctly.
If the drain pump breaks, you can call an appliance repair service for help. Most technicians work on major brands such as Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, and more. Check your washing machine repair warranty to find out if it includes free repair options. Also, remember that repairing yourself could void the warranty.
If Water is Overflowing From the Washer or at the Drain Standpipe
If your machine drains but causes water to overflow the standpipe or onto the floor, the issue may be further down the drain line. Let’s take a look at what you can do.
If you notice leaks after your washing machine drains, you are likely dealing with a clogged drain. This clog could be anywhere in the trap area or beyond in the waterline. If you trace the washing machine drain hose to the standpipe, the trap is located just beyond that pipe.
Here is how you can find out where the drain clog is:
- Dump water into the washing machine drum
- Set the dial to spin cycle or drain
- Watch the standpipe (from within reach of the dial)
- Note the time when the water starts backing up
- Turn off the washer once the leaking starts
If you noticed the water back up after only a few seconds, the clog is closer to the trap area. You should only insert a small drain snake into the standpipe to clear the clog. If the backup took a while to develop, you may need a longer drain snake inserted at a cleanout to clear the clog.
DIY Fixes to Try Before Calling a Pro
Before picking up the phone for professional help, there are a few easy things homeowners can try to resolve the issue. These steps save you time, money, and the hassle of scheduling a service call.
If you’re comfortable with basic troubleshooting, here are several DIY methods to try before calling in help:
- Run a cycle with the machine empty to see if the problem persists
- Check the lid switch and sensor to ensure they’re functioning
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or obstructions
- Check and clean the drain filter, since debris or lint buildup can clog it.
- Examine the drain pump for signs of damage or foreign objects
- Try washing smaller loads to reduce strain on your machine
- Check the gasket and door seal on front loaders to make sure trapped water isn’t collecting due to a sealing issue.
You can also listen for unusual noises during the spin cycle or check if the agitator is moving correctly. You can handle many of these tasks with simple tools and a flashlight, and you can prevent future problems by running hot-water cycles regularly and keeping your laundry room clean and free of detergent buildup.
How Long Do Washing Machines Last?
Once you’ve dealt with your immediate issue, it helps to know how long you can reasonably expect your washer to last. Understanding appliance lifespan helps know when to repair—and when to replace.
In the United States, almost every home has a washing machine, and the few people who don’t have one certainly wish they did. Spending hours each week at the laundromat can be an enormous waste of time, so most homeowners go out of their way to ensure they have a working washer and dryer.
Modern washing machines offer advanced features, from innovative technology to error code displays that make diagnosis and repair easier. However, just like other major appliances, they don’t last forever. Your model number can often help you check expected lifespan and available replacement parts.
Average Lifespan of Washing Machines
So how long should you expect your washer to work? Let’s look at some numbers.
On average, top and front-loading washing machines last about 14 years. The 14-year estimate assumes one load of laundry per day, or seven loads per week. Manufacturers design washers to handle about 5,100 cycles before replacement, which means an average washer can manage a load per day for about 14 years.
When you wash fewer than seven loads per week, you’re automatically extending the lifespan of your washer, and if you wash more than seven loads per week, you’re shortening its lifespan. It all comes down to the size of your household and how much laundry you do.
However, if the washing machine is at the lower end, for example, it may cost around $399 and handle only 4,000 loads. On the other hand, the higher-end models that cost around $1100 may handle as many as 8,000 loads before needing replacement. In essence, you get what you pay for.
If you’re in the market for a new washing machine in Kansas City, KS, we recommend checking the cycle rating before plopping down $400 to $1100. If you find a bargain where a washer is only a couple of hundred dollars more but is rated to handle double the cycles, you should take advantage of it.
Stress on the Washer
Now that you know how long a washer might last, let’s consider how use and maintenance affect its lifespan.
One of the main reasons washers fail prematurely is excessive stress. Overloading the washing machine drum places undue strain on components such as the motor, bearings, and agitator. The more complex the washing machine parts must work to wash a single load, the shorter the machine’s lifespan.
You can spend $1,000 or more on an 8,000-cycle washer, but it can break down after just 1,000 loads, and if your family frequently overloads it, it could break down in a fraction of its expected lifespan. To extend the life of your washer, wash small loads. If you need to clean larger, bulkier items, such as comforters and sleeping bags, take them to a local laundromat.
Call a Professional Plumber at A-1 Sewer and Septic
If you suspect the issue lies in your home’s plumbing rather than the machine itself, it may be time to consult the professionals.
Persistent drainage problems, leaks, or standing water in the washing machine can point to issues beyond the appliance itself. That’s where the experts at A-1 Sewer & Septic Service Inc. come in. We handle everything from clogged drain lines and broken pumps to full-system plumbing inspections.
Don’t let a minor problem become a major headache. Whether it’s a simple fix or a complex issue with your laundry room plumbing, our experienced team is ready to help.
Call A-1 Sewer & Septic today to schedule service and get your washer and plumbing system running smoothly again.