Table of Contents

How to Drain Water from a Samsung Washer: A Pro’s Guide

A flooded laundry room isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a potential disaster. Knowing how to drain your Samsung washer manually can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Let’s dive into the definitive guide, covering everything from routine draining to emergency situations.

The Definitive Answer: Draining Your Samsung Washer

The process depends slightly on the washer model, but the core principle remains the same: accessing the drain pump filter and manually releasing the water. Here’s a general, step-by-step approach that will work for most Samsung front-load and top-load washers:

Safety First: Disconnect the power supply to the washer. This is absolutely crucial to prevent electrical shock. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a few things:
- A shallow pan or towels to catch the water. Trust me, there will be water.
- A screwdriver (usually a Phillips head) for removing access panels.
- Pliers (optional, for stubborn hoses).
- Gloves (optional, but recommended – the water can be dirty).
Locate the Drain Pump Filter Access Panel: On front-load washers, this is typically located at the bottom right corner of the machine, behind a small access panel. On top-load washers, it’s often behind a panel near the base, at the front or side. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
Prepare for the Flood: Place the shallow pan or towels directly under the access panel. This is where most of the water will come out. Be generous with the towels; you’ll thank yourself later.
Open the Access Panel: Use the screwdriver to remove the screws holding the access panel in place. Carefully remove the panel.
Locate the Emergency Drain Hose (if applicable): Some Samsung washers have a small, thin drain hose next to the drain pump filter cap. If yours does, pull this hose out of its holder. Position the end of the hose over your pan or bucket. Remove the plug or cap at the end of the hose to allow the water to drain. This is a controlled release, so it’s less messy. Once the flow stops, replace the plug and secure the hose.
Access the Drain Pump Filter Cap: You’ll see a round cap, often with small tabs or a handle, that covers the drain pump filter. This is what we need to unscrew.
Slowly Unscrew the Drain Pump Filter Cap: This is where patience comes in. Unscrew the cap slowly to allow water to trickle out in a controlled manner. If you unscrew it too quickly, you’ll have a deluge. As you unscrew, the flow of water will increase. You may need to periodically tighten the cap to slow the flow and empty the pan.
Completely Remove the Cap: Once most of the water has drained, you can fully remove the cap. Be prepared for a final gush of water.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Now that the water is out, inspect the drain pump filter. Remove any lint, hair, small objects (coins, buttons – they love washers!), or debris that may be clogging it. A clean filter ensures proper drainage in the future.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter Cap: Make sure the cap is properly aligned and screwed in tightly. A loose cap will lead to leaks.
Close the Access Panel: Reattach the access panel with the screws you removed earlier.
Reconnect the Power: Plug the washer back into the wall outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Run a small rinse and spin cycle to ensure the washer is draining properly. Keep an eye out for any leaks.

That’s it! You’ve successfully drained your Samsung washer. Now, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is my Samsung washer not draining?

Several factors can cause a Samsung washer not to drain. The most common culprits include:

Clogged Drain Pump Filter: As described above, this is often the prime suspect.
Blocked Drain Hose: The hose that carries the water away can become kinked or blocked with lint and debris.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be malfunctioning. This requires a replacement pump.
Obstructed Drain Pipe: The house drain pipe connected to the washer’s drain hose might be clogged.
Software Glitch: Occasionally, a software glitch can prevent the washer from initiating the drain cycle. Try power cycling the washer (unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in).

2. How do I clean a Samsung washer drain hose?

Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drain pipe. Flush it out with water using a garden hose or a utility sink faucet. Inspect the hose for kinks or damage and replace it if necessary. You can also use a long, flexible brush (like a bottle brush) to dislodge stubborn debris.

3. Where is the drain pump located on my Samsung top-load washer?

On most Samsung top-load washers, the drain pump is located behind a panel near the base of the machine, typically at the front or side. You may need to remove a few screws to access the panel. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model.

4. Can I use a wet/dry vacuum to drain the water from my washer?

While you can use a wet/dry vacuum, it’s generally not recommended. The drain pump filter method is more controlled and prevents debris from being sucked into your vacuum. However, if you’re in a bind and have a significant amount of standing water, a wet/dry vacuum can help remove the bulk of it after you’ve drained as much as possible through the drain pump filter. Be sure your vacuum is rated for wet use!

5. How often should I clean the drain pump filter?

It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer and the type of laundry you wash (e.g., pet bedding generates more lint). Regular cleaning prevents clogs and ensures efficient drainage.

6. My Samsung washer has a “Check Drain” error code. What does that mean?

The “Check Drain” error code indicates that the washer is detecting a problem with draining water. This could be due to any of the issues mentioned in FAQ #1, such as a clogged drain pump filter, a blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. Start by checking and cleaning the drain pump filter.

7. The drain pump filter cap is stuck. How do I remove it?

If the drain pump filter cap is stuck, try using pliers to gently grip the cap and turn it. Be careful not to damage the cap. You can also try applying a small amount of lubricant (like WD-40) around the edge of the cap to help loosen it. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to unscrew it again.

8. How do I know if my drain pump is bad?

Signs of a failing drain pump include:

The washer doesn’t drain properly or drains very slowly.
You hear a loud buzzing or grinding noise during the drain cycle.
The “Check Drain” error code persists even after cleaning the drain pump filter.
Water leaks from the drain pump area.

If you suspect your drain pump is bad, you can test it with a multimeter, but this requires some electrical knowledge. Otherwise, it’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician.

9. Can I replace the drain pump myself?

Replacing a drain pump is a DIY project that’s within reach for many homeowners, if you are comfortable working with basic tools and electricity. There are many videos available online that show you how to do it. Make sure to disconnect the power and water supply before starting. However, if you’re not confident, it’s best to hire a professional.

10. What type of drain pump do I need for my Samsung washer?

You’ll need to find the correct replacement drain pump for your specific Samsung washer model. This information can usually be found on a label inside the washer door or on the back of the machine. Search online for “Samsung washer drain pump [your model number]” to find compatible parts.

11. Is it normal for some water to remain in the washer after a cycle?

A small amount of water (a cup or two) remaining in the bottom of the drum after a cycle is usually normal, especially in high-efficiency washers. However, if you’re noticing a significant amount of standing water, it indicates a drainage problem that needs to be addressed.

12. My washer drained, but now it won’t spin. What could be the problem?

If your washer drained but won’t spin, the problem could be related to the lid switch (on top-load washers), a faulty motor coupling, or a problem with the motor itself. In some cases, it could also be a belt that has slipped or broken. Consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps specific to your model or contact a qualified repair technician.