If your Speed Queen washer is leaving you with a tub full of sudsy water, you’re dealing with one of the most common—and most frustrating—laundry problems. This guide walks you through the most likely culprits, from a kinked drain hose to a clogged pump filter, and gives you clear, step-by-step fixes you can do yourself. No special tools or plumbing experience are needed for most of these solutions.
Ingredients
- 1 bucket or large container (at least 2 gallons / 7.5 L) for catching water
- 1 pair of pliers (adjustable or channel-lock)
- 1 flat-head screwdriver or coin (for opening the pump filter access panel)
- 1 towel or rag (for cleanup and checking the drain hose)
- 1 small brush or toothbrush (for cleaning the pump filter)
- 1 flashlight (to see behind the machine)
- Optional: 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar and 1 cup (240 g) baking soda (for cleaning the drain pump and hose)
Instructions
- Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply. Safety first—never work on a wet appliance while it’s plugged in. Pull the plug from the outlet and close the hot and cold water valves behind the machine.
- Drain the standing water manually. If the tub is full, you need to remove the water before you can access the pump. Use a bucket to scoop out as much water as you can. For the rest, locate the small access panel at the bottom front of the washer (usually a small square or round door). Open it with a flat-head screwdriver or coin. Inside, you’ll find a small hose with a plug—this is the emergency drain. Place your bucket under it, remove the plug, and let the water drain out. Be prepared for a steady stream; have towels on hand.
- Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Pull the washer away from the wall to access the back. The drain hose is the corrugated plastic tube that runs from the washer to a standpipe or laundry sink. Straighten any kinks or bends. If the hose is connected to a sink, make sure the end isn’t pushed too far into the drain, which can cause siphoning and poor drainage. If the hose looks clear, disconnect it from the washer and check for a clog—sometimes a sock or small item gets stuck. Shake it out or use a long brush or wire to clear it.
- Clean the pump filter. The pump filter is located behind the same access panel you opened in step 2. It’s usually a twist-off cap or a small round screen. Place your bucket under it, then twist it counterclockwise to remove it. Pull out any lint, coins, hair, or debris. Rinse the filter under running water and scrub it gently with a toothbrush if it’s grimy. Before replacing it, check the pump impeller (the small fan-like wheel behind the filter) for any obstructions—remove anything wrapped around it.
- Inspect the drain pump. If the filter is clean and the hose is clear, the problem may be the pump itself. Look at the pump area for visible cracks or damage. If you’re comfortable with a multimeter, you can test the pump for continuity (unplugged, of course). A pump that doesn’t have continuity needs to be replaced. This is a more involved repair—if you’re not sure, it’s best to call a technician.
- Check the lid switch. Speed Queen washers (like most top-loaders) won’t drain if the lid switch is faulty, because the machine thinks the lid is open. Listen for a click when you close the lid. If you don’t hear one, the switch may be broken. This is a common failure point and can be replaced with a screwdriver and a new part.
- Run a cleaning cycle. Once you’ve cleared any blockages, replace the filter and the access panel, reconnect the drain hose, and plug the washer back in. Turn the water back on. Add 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar and 1 cup (240 g) baking soda to the empty drum, then run a hot water cycle (without clothes) to flush out any remaining residue and prevent future clogs.
Tips
- Check the drain hose height. The end of the drain hose must be between 30 and 96 inches (76–244 cm) above the floor. If it’s too low, water will siphon out; too high, and the pump will struggle to push water out. Measure yours to make sure it’s in range.
- Don’t overload the washer. Stuffing too many clothes into the drum can block the drain holes and prevent water from escaping. Always leave a few inches of space at the top of the drum.
- Use the right detergent. High-efficiency (HE) detergent is a must for Speed Queen washers. Regular detergent creates too many suds, which can confuse the machine’s sensors and cause drainage issues. If you’ve used regular detergent, run an extra rinse cycle.
- Clean the filter regularly. Make it a habit to check the pump filter every 2–3 months, especially if you have pets or wash items with lots of lint. A clean filter prevents most drainage problems before they start.
Serving Suggestions
Once your washer is draining properly, run a quick empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to freshen the drum and lines. Then, wash a small load of towels or linens to confirm everything is working. This also helps clear any remaining debris that the cleaning cycle loosened.
Variations
- For front-load Speed Queen models: The drain pump filter is usually behind a small round door at the bottom front, but the drain hose may be attached differently. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
- If you have a commercial-grade Speed Queen (like those in laundromats): These may have a different drain pump system. Look for a coin-operated or push-button model—the filter access might be behind a locked panel. If so, contact a professional.
- If the washer is still under warranty: Don’t attempt major repairs yourself. Call Speed Queen or your dealer—tampering with the machine could void the warranty.
Storage and Reheating
This is a repair guide, not a recipe, so there’s nothing to store or reheat. However, if you’ve removed the drain hose or filter, keep the small parts in a labeled plastic bag so you don’t lose them. After completing the repair, run the cleaning cycle described in step 7 to leave the machine fresh and ready for its next load. If you need to pause mid-repair, it’s safe to leave the washer unplugged with the tub empty—just make sure all removed parts are kept together and the access panel is closed to prevent pets or children from reaching in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Speed Queen washer not draining but has power?
If the machine has power but won’t drain, the most common causes are a clogged pump filter, a kinked drain hose, or a faulty lid switch. Start by checking the filter and hose—they’re the easiest to fix. If those are clear, the lid switch may need to be tested with a multimeter or replaced.
Can I use a coat hanger to unclog the drain hose?
Yes, but carefully. Straighten a wire coat hanger and use it to gently push out any clogs from the hose. Be careful not to puncture the hose. If you feel resistance, stop and try a different approach, like flushing the hose with water from a garden hose.
How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
Every 2–3 months is a good rule of thumb, but if you notice slow draining or hear a gurgling sound, check it sooner. If you wash items with lots of pet hair or lint, you may need to clean it monthly.
Is it safe to run the washer with the drain hose disconnected?
No. Running the washer without the drain hose connected will cause water to flood onto the floor. Always make sure the hose is securely attached to both the washer and the standpipe or sink before running a cycle.
My Speed Queen washer is making a humming noise but won’t drain. What does that mean?
A humming sound usually means the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked. This is often due to a small item (like a sock or coin) stuck in the pump impeller. Turn off the washer, unplug it, and check the pump filter and impeller for obstructions.
What if none of these fixes work?
If you’ve checked the hose, filter, pump, and lid switch and the washer still won’t drain, the problem may be with the control board or the drain pump motor itself. At this point, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician, especially if your washer is still under warranty.
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