1. Blocked Pump Filter (Most Common)

The pump filter catches coins, buttons, hair grips, and other debris before they reach the pump. When it gets blocked, water can’t drain properly. This is the first thing to check and the most common cause we see across all brands – Bosch, Hotpoint, Beko, AEG, Zanussi, Hoover, Candy, and more.

2. Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose

The hose that carries water from the machine to your drainage point can become kinked, especially if the machine has been moved or pushed back against a wall. Debris can also build up inside the hose over time. Even a partial blockage reduces drainage flow and leaves water in the drum.

3. Failed Drain Pump

The pump pushes water out of the machine. If it fails – either mechanically seized or electrically faulty – water won’t drain at all. You might hear a humming or buzzing sound as the pump tries to run, or complete silence if it’s electrically dead.

4. Foreign Object Blockage

Sometimes small items – socks, underwear, coins, or other objects – get past the filter and jam the pump impeller or lodge in internal pipework. This prevents the pump from working even though it’s not technically faulty. We’ve found everything from bra wires to children’s toys blocking drainage systems.

5. Blocked External Drainage

If your washing machine drains into a standpipe or sink, the blockage might not be in the machine at all – it could be in your household drainage system. The machine pumps water out fine, but it can’t go anywhere and backs up into the drum.

6. Error Code Displayed

Many washing machines show specific error codes for drainage faults. If your machine displays an error code alongside the drainage problem, it’s telling you exactly what’s wrong and can speed up diagnosis significantly.

1. Check the obvious first

We inspect the pump filter for blockages, check the drain hose isn’t kinked, and verify the external drainage point is clear. These simple checks solve the majority of drainage issues.

2. Test the drain pump

We run a drain cycle and listen to the pump. A working pump makes a steady pumping sound. A humming or buzzing noise suggests a blockage or seized impeller. Silence indicates electrical failure or a disconnected pump.

3. Inspect for hidden blockages

If the filter and hose are clear but drainage is still poor, we check for foreign objects in the pump chamber, inspect internal pipework, and examine the pump impeller for damage or debris.

4. Fix or replace the faulty component

Once we’ve identified the cause – blocked filter, failed pump, kinked hose, or foreign object – we clear the blockage or replace the pump. Most drainage repairs are completed in one visit.

Hard water areas: In Bath and surrounding areas of Somerset and Wiltshire, hard water causes limescale buildup in pumps and pipework. This doesn’t usually stop drainage completely, but it can reduce efficiency over time. If your machine is draining slowly rather than not at all, limescale might be a contributing factor.