A machine full of dirty water is stressful, especially when your clothes are locked inside. In most cases the cause is a blockage in the filter, pump or hose, and it can be cleared quickly.
If you are comfortable doing so, try the checks below. If you would rather not deal with the water, call or WhatsApp us and we will sort it out.
Safe checks to try first
Always switch the machine off at the wall before checking anything inside it.
- 1Switch the machine off at the wall before you start.
- 2Put towels and a shallow tray on the floor, then open the filter cover at the bottom front of the machine.
- 3Unscrew the filter slowly to let water out, then remove fluff, coins and debris.
- 4Check the drain hose for kinks, and make sure the standpipe or sink trap is not blocked.
Common causes
Blocked filter
The filter catches coins, buttons and fluff. When it is full, water cannot get to the pump.
Jammed pump impeller
Small objects get past the filter and stop the pump impeller from turning.
Failed drain pump
Pumps wear out or burn out, especially if they have run while blocked. A humming pump with no water flow is a common sign.
Blocked hose or standpipe
Fluff and soap build-up can block the hose or the household drain it connects to.
Pressure sensor fault
If the sensor misreads the water level, the machine may not know it needs to drain.
When to call a technician
- The filter is clean but the machine still will not drain
- You hear the pump hum but no water moves
- The door is locked with water inside and you cannot drain it
- Drain error codes such as OE, 5C, 5E, E18 or F18
How we fix it
Drain Pump Repairs
Water left in the drum? We clear blockages and repair or replace drain pumps, sumps and hoses on all machines.Servicing & Maintenance
A thorough service that removes scale, clears filters, checks hoses and catches small faults before they become breakdowns.Front Loader Repairs
Bearings, door locks, pumps, seals and electronic faults on all front loading automatics, repaired at your home.Frequently asked questions
How do I open my washing machine when it is full of water?
Most machines keep the door locked while water is inside. Switch off, wait a few minutes, then drain through the filter at the front bottom of the machine. Once the water is out, the door lock should release. If it does not, call us.