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 washer full of 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 is still sitting inside. This kind of issue usually signals that water isn’t draining as it should.
Does the water sit in the machine after your load has finished and the amount of water doesn’t go down? Or do you have a slow water flow when draining? The issue probably lies with the washer. This problem could be traced to the washing machine drain hose (which comes out of the machine), the lid switch or the drain pump (an internal issue).
There are generally two types of washing machines: front load washer and top-loading washing machines. Both of these will attach to washing machine drain pipes, and both the top and front loader washing machines can be susceptible to kinks or obstructions in the drain hose, or a clog in the drain line.
Troubleshooting this is simple enough and with a little 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 blocks the air from going through then 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.
What can you do if the drain pump is broken? You may need to call an appliance repair service for help, and most can work on major brands such as Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, and more. Check to see if there is a washing machine repair warranty you can utilize as well, as some of the repairs may be covered at no cost to you. Keep in mind, DIY repairs can void coverage.
If Water is Overflowing From the Washer or at the Drain Standpipe
If your machine drains but causes water to overflow from the standpipe or onto the floor, the issue may be deeper in the drain line. Let’s take a look at what you can do.
If you notice leaks after your washing machine drains, you are probably looking at a clogged drain. This clog could be anywhere in the trap area or beyond in the waterline. (If you follow the washing machine drain hose to the drain standpipe, past that pipe is the trap.)
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 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 probably closer to the trap area. You might only need to insert a small drain snake at the standpipe to take care of the clog. If it took a while for the backup to develop, you may need a longer drain snake inserted at a cleanout to fix 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 might 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
- Check the lid switch and sensor to ensure they’re functioning
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or
- Clean the filter, which may be clogged with debris or
- Examine the drain pump for signs of damage or foreign
- Try washing smaller loads to reduce strain on your
You can also listen for unusual noises during the spin cycle or check if the agitator is moving correctly. Many of these tasks can be done with simple tools and a flashlight. Keeping your laundry room clean and free from lint or detergent buildup can also prevent future problems.
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 is useful for knowing when to repair—and when to replace.
In the United States, almost every home has a washing machine, and the few people that don’t have them, certainly wish they did. Spending hours each week at the laundromat can be a large 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 smart technology to error code displays that make diagnosis and repair easier. However, just like other major appliances, they don’t last forever.
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 is based on one load of laundry per day, or seven loads each week. Basically, washers are expected to handle about 5,100 cycles before they need to be replaced, so mathematically the average washer should handle a load per day for 14 years.
When you wash less than seven loads per week, then 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 on the lower end, for example, it costs around $399, it may only be able to handle 4,000 loads. On the other hand, the higher-end models that cost around
$1100 may be able to handle as many as 8,000 loads or more before they need to be replaced. In essence, you get what you pay for.
If you’re on 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 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 too much strain on components like the motor, bearings, and agitator. The harder 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 but if your family frequently overloads it, it could break down in a fraction of its expected lifespan. To extend the life of your washer, only wash smaller loads and if you need to wash larger, bulky items, such as comforters and sleeping bags, take them down to the 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 your 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.
