Discover the Secret: How to Get Speed Queen Washer to Drain Effortlessly

A Speed Queen washer is known for its durability and reliability, but even the toughest machines can encounter problems. One common issue is a washer that won’t drain properly. This can be frustrating, leaving you with a soggy mess and a pile of wet clothes. But don’t worry, you don’t need to call a repairman just yet. In this guide, we’ll explore common reasons why your Speed Queen washer might not be draining and provide step-by-step solutions to help you get your laundry back on track.

Understanding the Drain System

Before diving into troubleshooting, let’s understand how the drain system in a Speed Queen washer works. The washer uses a pump to push water out through a drain hose, which usually leads to a standpipe or directly into a drain. The drain hose is connected to the pump, and the pump is controlled by the washer’s control panel.

Common Causes of Drainage Problems

There are a few common reasons why your Speed Queen washer might not be draining:
1. Clogged Drain Hose: The most common cause of drainage issues is a clogged drain hose. Over time, lint, hair, and other debris can accumulate in the hose, restricting the flow of water.
2. Clogged Drain Pump: The drain pump itself can become clogged with debris, preventing it from effectively pushing water out.
3. Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump might be faulty, meaning it’s no longer working properly. This could be due to a broken motor or a worn-out impeller.
4. Blocked Drain Line: The drain line itself, which runs from the washer to the standpipe or drain, could be blocked. This can happen due to a clog in the standpipe, a kink in the drain hose, or a blockage in the drain system.

Troubleshooting Steps: How to Get Speed Queen Washer to Drain

Now that you understand the potential causes, let’s tackle the troubleshooting process:
1. Check the Drain Hose:

• Unplug the washer: Disconnect the washer from the power source before you begin.
• Locate the drain hose: The drain hose is typically attached to the back or bottom of the washer.
• Inspect the hose: Carefully examine the hose for any visible clogs or kinks. If you find any, try to clear them with a wire hanger or a plumbing snake.
• Disconnect and clean: If you suspect a clog, disconnect the hose from the washer and the drain. Run water through the hose to flush out any debris. You can also use a hose cleaning tool to remove stubborn clogs.

2. Check the Drain Pump:

• Locate the drain pump: The drain pump is usually located on the bottom of the washer, near the drain hose.
• Inspect the pump: Look for any visible debris or blockages around the pump. If you find any, try to remove them with a small tool or your fingers.
• Test the pump: You can test the pump by manually rotating the impeller. If it doesn’t rotate smoothly or makes a grinding noise, the pump might be faulty.

3. Check the Drain Line:

• Inspect the standpipe: If you have a standpipe, check for any blockages or debris. You can use a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the standpipe.
• Check for kinks: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or bent, which could restrict water flow.
• Check for clogs in the drain system: If you suspect a clog in the main drain line, you might need to call a plumber.

4. Check the Control Panel:

• Verify the drain cycle is active: Make sure the washer is set to drain properly. Some washers have a separate drain cycle, while others drain automatically at the end of the wash cycle.
• Look for error codes: If the control panel displays error codes, refer to your washer’s manual for troubleshooting tips.

5. Replace the Drain Pump (If Necessary):

• If you’ve ruled out other issues: If you’ve checked all the above and still can’t get your washer to drain, the drain pump might be faulty. You’ll need to replace the pump.
• Consult your user manual: Refer to your Speed Queen washer’s manual for specific instructions on how to replace the drain pump. You may need to disconnect the washer from the power source and remove the back panel to access the pump.

Preventing Future Drain Issues

Here are some tips to help prevent future drain issues:

• Clean the drain hose regularly: Clean the drain hose every few months to remove lint, hair, and other debris.
• Use a lint trap: Use a lint trap in your washing machine to catch loose fibers before they can clog the drain hose.
• Avoid overloading the washer: Overloading the washer can put extra strain on the drain pump and lead to clogs.
• Check the drain line periodically: Inspect the drain line regularly for any signs of clogs or kinks.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your Speed Queen washer still won’t drain, it’s time to call a professional appliance repair technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair more complex issues, such as a faulty control board or a blocked drain line.

A Final Word on Speed Queen Washer Drain Issues

While a Speed Queen washer is built to last, even the toughest machines can experience drainage problems. By understanding the common causes and following these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. However, if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance. With a little bit of effort, you can get your Speed Queen washer back to its reliable, efficient self.

What You Need to Learn

Q: My Speed Queen washer is making a loud noise when draining. What could be wrong?
A: A loud noise during draining could indicate a clogged drain pump, a worn-out pump impeller, or a loose pump housing. Check the pump for blockages and inspect the impeller for damage. If the noise persists, the pump might need to be replaced.
Q: How often should I clean the drain hose on my Speed Queen washer?
A: It’s a good idea to clean the drain hose every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer and the amount of lint and hair it collects.
Q: My Speed Queen washer is draining slowly. What should I do?
A: A slow drain could be caused by a partially clogged drain hose, a worn-out drain pump, or a kink in the drain hose. Check the hose for blockages and kinks, and inspect the pump for wear and tear. If the issue persists, you might need to replace the pump or the drain hose.
Q: How do I know if the drain pump in my Speed Queen washer is faulty?
A: A faulty drain pump might make a grinding noise, fail to rotate smoothly, or not pump water out at all. You can test the pump by manually rotating the impeller. If it doesn’t rotate smoothly or makes a grinding noise, the pump might be faulty.
Q: My Speed Queen washer is leaking water during the drain cycle. What’s wrong?
A: A leak during the drain cycle could be caused by a loose or cracked drain hose, a worn-out drain pump seal, or a leak in the washer’s tub. Inspect the drain hose for damage and check the pump seal for wear and tear. If the leak persists, you might need to replace the hose, the pump, or the tub seal.