Washing machine not draining? How to clean the pump filter step by step
Water left in the drum after a wash usually means a clogged pump filter, not a broken pump. Cleaning it takes 15 minutes and costs nothing.
- Most common cause
- clogged pump filter (coins, hairpins, lint)
- Time
- 15–20 minutes
- Pump replacement at a repair shop
- 150–350 zł
Unplug the washing machine before you unscrew the filter. If you washed at a high temperature, wait for the water to cool down. Get towels and a flat tray ready, because several litres of water will come out of the filter.
Step by step
Unplug the machine and prepare the area
Pull the plug out of the socket. Lay towels under the filter flap (usually at the bottom front, on the right or left) and put a flat tray or baking sheet underneath.
Drain the water with the emergency hose
Many washing machines have a thin hose with a plug next to the filter. Pull it out, unplug it over the tray and drain the water in batches. If there's no hose, unscrew the filter slowly, a quarter turn at a time, and catch the water.
Unscrew and clean the filter
Turn the filter counterclockwise. Remove lint, coins, hairpins, bra underwires and other small items. Rinse it under running water.
Check the pump impeller
Shine a torch into the opening behind the filter. Use your finger (or a pencil) to check that the pump impeller turns freely, with slight resistance. If something is blocking it, remove it.
Check the drain hose
Make sure the hose behind the machine isn't kinked or squashed. If it's connected to a sink trap, check that the trap isn't clogged.
Screw the filter back in and run a spin cycle
Screw the filter in all the way so it doesn't leak. Turn the machine on and run the “Drain” or “Spin” programme. If the water goes down, the problem is solved.
- The pump impeller spins with no resistance at all, or is permanently stuck.
- The pump hums, but the water doesn't drain even though the filter and hose are clean.
- The machine shows a drain error right after the programme starts.
How much does a repair shop charge?
| Cleaning the filter and hose at a repair shop | 80–150 zł |
| Replacing the drain pump | 150–350 zł |
| Replacing the drain hose | 80–150 zł |
Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.
Repair or buy new?
Replacing the pump is a cheap, quick repair. It's worth it for almost any washing machine younger than 10–12 years. To avoid the problem coming back, wash bras in a laundry bag and check your pockets.
Check if it's worth repairing your washing machine
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Open the calculator →FAQ
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Every 2–3 months, and more often if you have pets at home. This prevents bad smells and pump failures.
My washing machine won't open because it's full of water. What do I do?
First drain the water through the filter or the emergency hose, as described above. Many washing machines also have an emergency door release cord near the filter.
Can I replace the pump myself?
On many washing machines, yes. The pump is held by a few screws, either from underneath or from the front. If you don't have experience, or the machine is still under warranty, have a repair shop do it.