If your washing machine isn't draining water properly, there are a few possible causes, one being a faulty drain pump. Fortunately, solving draining issues is something you can do at home by yourself, as is using a multimeter to test your washing machine's drain pump and replace it if necessary. That's why, in this article, we're going to show you how to use a multimeter to test the drain pump on your washing machine, along with the other checks you can carry out to solve the issue.
Please note that we'll be demonstrating this process on a Hoover washing machine throughout this guide. The process may differ slightly on other makes and models of washing machines, but it should generally be similar.
However, if you suspect you need to replace the drain pump but own a different brand of washing machine instead, we have articles showing you how to replace the drain pump on an LG washer, a Bosch washer, a Zanussi washer, a Samsung washer and an Indesit washer too. We also have another article to help with diagnosing washing machine and drain pump problems that includes a few extra tips and checks if this article doesn't help you solve the issue.
What you will need
- T15 Torx screwdriver
- Drain hose unblocking tool
- Multimeter
- New drain pump (if faulty)
Finding your model number
If you follow this guide and find that your drain pump is faulty, you'll need to buy a new one to replace it. However, it's important to first know your washing machine's model number to make sure you buy the correct drain pump for your particular make and model of appliance. If you don't know your washer's model number or how to find it, don't worry. Our guide on finding your washing machine's model number will get you in the know!
How to use a multimeter to test the drain pump on your washing machine
Now, let's get started! To learn how to test a washing machine drain pump with a multimeter, either watch our video tutorial or follow our written step-by-step guide below.
Safety first!
Remember, always make sure your appliance is switched off and unplugged from the mains before carrying out any work, repairs or replacements. For this process, you will also need to turn off your mains water supply.
Additionally, if your water supply hose is not long enough for you to pull your washing machine out and work on it, you will need to disconnect the hose from your machine. When doing this, make sure you lay a towel down to catch any excess water.
Step 1: Remove the drain pump filter
Before testing the drain pump itself, you'll first need to remove the drain pump filter and check it for any damage or blockages that might be responsible for your drainage issues. This filter can be found behind the small filter cover in the bottom corner on the front of your washer. Lay a towel down in front of the filter to catch any water spillages while you're working in this area.
Before removing the filter, first check if your washing machine has a small emergency drain hose, as pictured below. If so, pull the hose out, remove the cap and empty the hose into a container. Once empty, you can put the cap back on the hose and slot it back into the machine.
Then go ahead and remove the drain pump filter by unscrewing it and pulling it out of its housing.
Step 2: Check the filter and impeller
With the filter removed, check it for any blockage or debris (removing anything you might find) and make sure the filter is clean. You should also check the filter for damage and, if you find any, buy a new filter to replace your damaged one.
You will also need to check that the impeller inside the filter's housing isn't blocked or obstructed. Use a pencil or screwdriver to make sure the impeller can turn properly. Again, remove any blockages if you find any obstructing the impeller.
Step 3: Check the drain hose for blockages
Next, you should also check the drain hose for blockages, as this can also be a cause of a washing machine not draining properly. You can use a drain hose unblocking tool or a similar tool to do this. Simply work the tool inside the drain hose and work it around to remove any blockages that might be obstructing the hose.
Step 4: Test your washing machine
Now, before testing the drain pump with your multimeter, it's a good idea to plug your washing machine back in and run a cycle to check if it is now draining properly. If so, it means you solved the issue with the previous steps. However, if your washing machine still isn't draining water properly, you'll need to follow the rest of this process to check the drain pump with your multimeter.
Step 5: Access the drain pump
To access the drain pump, you'll need to carefully lay your washing machine on its side. You'll also need to remove the bottom cover, if your washer has one.
You should now be able to see the drain pump inside the bottom of the appliance, as indicated in the picture below.
Go ahead and remove the electrical connection from the drain pump.
Step 6: Test the drain pump with your multimeter
With the electrical connection unplugged, you can now set up your multimeter and test the drain pump. First, set your multimeter to the 2k setting, which stands for 2 kiloohms.
Then place the two multimeter prongs into the socket in which the electrical connection was connected. If your drain pump is working properly, the multimeter should show a reading between 160 ohms to 260 ohms (with about 5% leeway). So the lowest possible acceptable reading should be 152 ohms. If the multimeter reads lower than this, it means the drain pump is faulty and needs replacing.
Step 7: Replace the drain pump
After purchasing a new drain pump, you will need to remove the old one to replace it. To remove the old drain pump, use your T15 Torx screwdriver to unscrew the three screws that hold the drain pump in place.
With all the screws removed, you will be able to pull the old drain pump off.
To fit the new drain pump, simply slot it into place...
Then secure it by screwing it back into place with the three screws.
Don't forget to also reconnect the electrical connection to the new drain pump.
Step 8: Reassemble your washing machine
With your new drain pump fitted, you can go ahead and reassemble your appliance. Refit the bottom cover of your washing machine (if it has one).
Don't forget to also return the filter and close the filter cover.
You can then carefully stand the machine back upright, reconnect the water supply hose if you removed it earlier, and finally plug your appliance back in.
And there you have it! All there is to using a multimeter to test a washing machine drain pump. Your appliance should now be draining properly once more.
Now that your washer is back in action, it's a good idea to make sure you're using your appliance as efficiently as possible. Our guide to washing machine settings and programmes will help you get the best possible results from your washing machine!
Don't forget to also subscribe to our YouTube channel for plenty more video guides on appliance repairs, maintenance, energy-saving advice and more.
Print this article