How to Fix a Pump for a Washer That Will Not Agitate

The water pump, or drain pump, is the part on your washing machine that drains the water from the tub. If your machine is not draining properly, it may not move into the spin cycle. If this is happening, the information below can help you through the repair process.

What is a Pump? Where is it Located?

The water pump, or drain pump, is the part of a washing machine that drains the water from the tub. The pump can be either belt-driven, direct drive, or a separate electric pump. The drain pump is connected to an outlet hose and gets water from the tub via an inlet hose. There may also be an outlet for a circulating hose.

General Location of the Pump in a Front Load Washer

General Location of the Pump in a Top Load Washer

How to Tell if the Water Pump is Damaged

There are several symptoms that indicate that there may be an issue with your washer drain pump. These include signs of leaking, excessive noise, not draining, or pumping but not spinning.

How to Access and Remove the Pump

1. Disconnect your washing machine from the power source before beginning.
2. Remove the front panel or cabinet of your appliance and locate your pump(s).
3. The pump has an outlet or drain hose, an inlet from the tub, and a circulating hose outlet. If you have water leaking from the washer during a wash or drain cycle, check the area of the drain pump. First look for signs of a loose hose clamp or a leaking hose connected to the pump.
4. If the leak originates from the pump, you need a replacement pump.

How to Install a New Pump

Reattach any clamps, hoses, and wire harnesses to the new pump. Reverse the steps used to remove the old drain pump from the washer.

Next: Troubleshooting the Drain Hose

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