Washing Machine Not Draining: Causes and Fixes
Water left in the drum after the cycle is one of the most common faults, and often the cause is simple. Here are the causes and how to check them safely.
Published by Automatic Washing Machine Repair · Last updated: October 2026
This page is part of our guide to automatic washing machine repair in Riyadh.
Why a washing machine stops draining
- Pump filter blocked with lint, coins and small clothing items.
- Drain hose kinked or blocked.
- Drain pump worn out or its impeller jammed.
- Blocked household drain line that the machine empties into.
- Water level sensor or control board fault.
Quick diagnosis table
| What you notice | Likely cause | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Water left in the drum | Blocked filter or hose | Clean the pump filter |
| Humming but no draining | Jammed or worn drain pump | Stop and call a technician |
| Code OE or 5E | Drainage fault | Check the filter, then call |
| Slow draining | Partly blocked hose or house drain line | Check the hose and the drain line |
How to clean the pump filter safely
- Unplug the machine and turn off the water tap.
- Place a bowl and a towel under the filter opening; leftover water may come out.
- Open the small filter cover at the bottom of the machine and gently pull out the filter.
- Remove lint and trapped objects, then refit the filter and close it tightly.
If you can't find the filter or aren't sure of the steps, don't risk it; call the technician.
Error codes linked to drainage
On many LG machines the code OE appears for a drainage problem, and on Samsung machines it is often 5E or SE. Codes vary by model, so mention the code to the technician when you call.
How the technician diagnoses a drainage fault
- Check the pump filter and the drain hose.
- Test the drain pump and confirm its impeller turns.
- Inspect the pressure switch or water level sensor and its tube.
- Check the household drain line and the height of the hose.
- Read the code on the display, if there is one.
When to call the technician
If water remains after cleaning the filter, if you hear the pump humming without draining, or if a leak appears, call us. We find the fault at your home in Riyadh and explain the cost before any work starts. Every repair is covered by a 30-day warranty on parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually a blocked filter or hose, or a failed pump. Unplug the machine and clean the filter; if water remains, request an inspection.
It normally points to a drainage problem such as a blocked filter or hose, or a pump fault.
Not recommended. Stop it and drain the water carefully through the filter opening, then request an inspection if it keeps happening.
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