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How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually

Washing machines are fairly new inventions and have reduced the time, and effort, it takes to freshen up dirty clothes. Before its invention, people used…

May 05, 2026
How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually

Washing machines are fairly new inventions and have reduced the time, and effort, it takes to freshen up dirty clothes. Before its invention, people used washboards or did laundry by hand. Still, washing machines are not perfect. There are many plumbing and electrical issues that can force your washing machine to take a day off. Fortunately, the professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing know a thing or two about fixing washing machines. 
This article will go over a common problem: washing machines that won’t drain. We will go over some ways to manually drain the washing machine as well as causes of draining problems. If you have any specific questions or if you would like to hire a professional, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing.

What Causes Washing Machine Draining Problems?

Usually, a washing machine will not drain because it is clogged at some point. Lint, clothe fragments, soap residue, grease, and oils are common culprits. Fortunately, there are only two main points where they clog:

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Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

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Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

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Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually

  • Drain Pump Clog: Your washing machine removes excess water from the tub via a drain pump. The drain pump is usually located behind a panel in the front or back of the machine. Check your owner’s manual to figure out how to access the drain pump.
  • Drain Hose Clog: The drain pump then pushes water out through the drain hose. If the water does not rush out of the hose, then you probably have a clog. A drain snake is a good tool to use to de-clog the drain hose.

Manually Draining Top-Loading Washing Machines

Top-loading washing machines will only drain if the lid is securely shut. Make sure it is completely closed and see if the water drains on its own. If not, then follow these steps to manually drain the top-loading washing machine:

  • Tu off the power and switch off the appropriate circuit breaker to remove the risk of electric shock. Then, lay down some towels to catch water in the event of a spill.
  • Tu off the water supply and pull the washing machine from the wall to make some workspace. Disconnect the drain hose, which is usually gray (the blue and red hoses are for cold and hot water input). Hold the hose over the level of the washing machine to avoid water spilling out.
  • Gradually lower the hose into a large bucket. Allow the water to fill into the bucket. Regularly empty the bucket while keeping the hose above the machine and repeat the draining until the drum is emptied.

Manually Draining Front-Loading Washing Machines

  • Again, unplug the washing machine and switch off the respective circuit breaker to avoid electrical shocks. Then, lay down towels to catch any spills throughout this task.
  • Locate the drainpipe filter and drain hose, usually behind the panel on the bottom of the front of your machine. Check your user manual for specific instructions.
  • Place a container up against the machine to catch the water. Tu the knob slowly to allow water to pour until the container is full. Tighten to knob to stop the flow and dump the container of water. Repeat the steps until the drum is emptied.
  • Scrub the filter while you’re here. Remove debris and rinse the filter with warm water.

Call the Professionals

If you would like to leave this to the experts or have the machine repaired, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We are available around the clock for 24-hour emergency services.

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