When you're about to do the laundry and find water inside the washing machine despite not adding any, you're potentially looking at a few problems. Luckily, these problems are easy to fix, and anyone can do it. We researched this to tell you precisely what is wrong and how to fix it.
If you find sitting water inside the washing machine drum, the problem usually lies in either the water inlet valve or the hose.
These two components are the first ones that you need to check. If they're both in good working condition, then it's highly likely that the issue lies within the drain pump.
In this article, we will further discuss why water is collecting inside your washing machine drum and how to resolve each one. Furthermore, we will discuss how to prevent sitting water in the first place and how to get rid of any leftover water. So, continue reading to find out more.
Why Is There Water Inside Washing Machine Drum When Not In Use?
As mentioned earlier, the most common causes of water building up inside a washing machine drum when not in use are the water inlet valve, the drain hose, and the drain pump. Checking each and understanding the problem is key to helping resolve the issue.
Failing Water Inlet Valve
When there's water inside the drum, the first things to check are the water inlet valves. That's because they're responsible for controlling the water that flows in and out of the washing machine.
Usually, all you need to do is to shut the water inlet valve close, stopping the water from collecting inside the washing machine. But if this doesn't work, check for leaks and reset the water inlet valve.
As a last resort, you can always buy a replacement part to resolve the issue.
Check this water inlet valve on Amazon.
Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for removing all the water inside the washing machine drum. So, if you constantly find water inside your washing machine when not in use and the water inlet valves are not the issue, then the drain pump is not working correctly.
Usually, it's due to the debris and dirt when doing the laundry that causes the drain pump to malfunction. Too many of these obstructions can lead to wear and tear in the component.
To fix this, you will have to detach the drain pump from the washing machine carefully. Make sure to disconnect all the water supply valves and hoses when doing this.
After cleaning the drain pump, place it back inside the washing machine and let it run to check if the issue persists.
If it does, simply replace it with a new pump. For those that may find this difficult or just don't have the time to do so, you may call a professional to do the job for you.
Check this drain pump on Amazon.
Clogged Drain Hose
A clogged drain hose is one of the most common issues when it comes to water collecting inside the washing machine drum when not in use. This is due to the build-up of debris inside the hose over the years.
That's why you need to replace it once every five years or so to avoid running into this issue.
Small garments like socks can also clog a drain hose occasionally. Always make sure to check these articles of clothing before and after a wash to prevent any blockages from happening.
To resolve this issue, all you need to do is detach the drain hose from the washing machine and, using a drain snake, clear up any debris inside. This usually works well on relatively new drain hoses.
Sometimes, you will need to replace the drain hose to help fix the problem.
Check this drain snake on Amazon.
Standpipe Too High
The standpipe helps transport the wastewater inside your washing machine and into the sewer lines. So, if the standpipe is too high, the wastewater will flow back into the washing machine drum instead.
The recommended height for a standpipe to be above the opposite end of a drain hose is not more than 30 inches. Any higher, and you'll be dealing with more than just water sitting inside the washing machine drum.
This issue can cause flooding inside the laundry room, leading to water damage and breeding grounds for bacteria to thrive.
So if you notice that the standpipe goes against the plumbing code, immediately call a professional. Consult with them on how best to go about with your problem before relocating the standpipe.
Bent Drain Hose
Lastly, a bent drain hose can prevent wastewater from flowing out properly, letting it collect inside the washing machine drum. This usually happens when you try to fit your drain hose in tight places or hide them underneath rugs or blankets.
To resolve this, you need to re-evaluate where your washing machine is currently at. Make sure to keep your washing machine at a certain distance from walls to prevent accidental bending of drain hoses. Try not to put anything on top of the drain hose as well.
Check this drain hose on Amazon.
How To Get Rid Of Leftover Water In Washing Machine?
When doing the laundry, it's impossible not to have a small amount of leftover water inside the washing machine drum.
It's a common sight for anyone who regularly uses a washing machine. However, that small amount of water can be problematic down the line.
Leaving behind any amount of water inside the drum can promote bacterial growth. It also creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew to thrive.
Using a vacuum or soaking up the remaining water with a clean cloth is enough to do the trick. You can also pour a few drops of dishwashing solution into the drum and let it cycle once.
This helps get rid of any bacteria that are starting to form.
Check this washing machine on Amazon.
How Often To Drain And Clean Washing Machine?
Generally, it's best to drain your washing machine and clean it once every month. This is to avoid the build-up of bacteria, debris, and other small particles that could impact the efficiency of your washing machine.
If you plan on doing this yourself, remember to turn the power off and shield the power cord from any stray water that could hit it. You can either use duct tape or wrap a piece of plastic around it to keep it safe.
Then, drain out any excess water that could come from the standpipe and the drain hose during disconnection. Lastly, don't forget to remove the machine's filter and clean it out.
If you wish to learn more about this section, consider checking the link below. This discusses more what happens when you don't drain and clean your washing regularly:
Why Does My Washing Machine Smell Like Sewage?
Why Is The Washing Machine Leaking?
If you notice that there's water pooling around your washing machine, then it's highly likely for there is a clog or a leak somewhere. When this happens, it's best to resolve the issue as soon as possible to prevent flooding that can lead to water damage in your home.
First, shut off the washing machine. This is to prevent any electrical accidents from happening. Also, shut off the water valves so that water won't flow out anymore.
Then, try to diagnose the issue. Try to look for any leaks in the drain hoses and pipes. If you can't find any, check for any clogging issues.
Make sure to check the water valves as well. A faulty valve can cause water to flow into the drum, sometimes causing a flood. If you can't pinpoint the issue, call a professional.
How Much Water To Put Inside A Washing Machine?
It's always best to check the user manual of the washing machine when trying to find out how much water it needs.
If you can't find the manual, a general rule is that front-loading washing machines need around 18 gallons of water. Top-loading washing machines require double that amount.
If there's too little water inside the washing machine, your laundry won't come out as clean as possible. Too much water leads to soaking wet clothes at the end of the washing cycles, thereby wasting water and efficiency.
If you want to know how much powder detergent to use, then kindly check the link below for more information:
How Much Powder Detergent To Use In Washing Machine [And Where To Put It]
To Wrap Up
If you ever find water inside your washing machine without ever adding any to it, then don't fret. Always check to see if the water inlet valve and the drain pump are in good working condition. If they are, ensure the drain hose is free from any blockages and is not too high from the trap.
Keep the drain hose straight without any bents to prevent water from backing up and collecting inside the washing machine's drum.
Did this article help you find out what you're looking for? If so, consider checking the links below. They all discuss other topics revolving around the washing machine:
Bubbles Coming Out Of Washing Machine Drain Pipe &; Why And What To Do?