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A washing machine is designed to follow a precise sequence of stages: filling, washing, rinsing, and draining. When your appliance suddenly stops in the middle of the draining process, it not only interrupts the cycle but also leaves you with a drum full of dirty water and unfinished laundry. This issue is more common than many homeowners realize and is typically a result of two key factors: a faulty drain sensor or a clogged pressure hose. Understanding how these components work and why they fail helps you diagnose the problem early and avoid costly damage.
Why the Draining Stage Is So Critical
During the draining stage, the washing machine removes used water through its drain pump. The appliance must accurately detect water levels and communicate with internal control systems to move to the next step. If anything disrupts this communication or the water flow, the machine automatically pauses. This safety measure prevents overflow, motor strain, or additional mechanical failures.
When your washing machine stops at draining, these failures usually relate to a malfunctioning drain sensor or a pressure hose obstruction. Let’s explore both scenarios in detail.
1. Faulty Drain Sensor
The drain sensor, or water level sensor, monitors how much water is in the drum. If it detects incorrect water levels or fails to send the right signal to the control board, the machine cannot confirm whether it’s safe to continue. As a result, it stops mid-cycle and often displays an error code.
Signs of a faulty drain sensor:
- Machine pauses repeatedly at the same stage
- Error codes indicating water level issues
- Drum feels emptier or fuller than expected
- Intermittent draining performance
What causes the sensor to fail?
- Wear and tear over years of operation
- Moisture damage inside the control housing
- Wiring issues preventing proper electrical signals
- Limescale buildup affecting detection accuracy
A drain sensor is a delicate electronic component, and once it fails, the washing machine becomes confused about the water level. Replacement or professional calibration is necessary to restore normal function.
2. Clogged or Blocked Pressure Hose
The pressure hose connects the drum to the pressure switch and helps measure water levels during the cycle. If this hose becomes clogged, kinked, or blocked, the sensor receives false readings, causing the machine to stop during the draining process.
Common causes of pressure hose blockage:
- Detergent residue buildup
- Limescale accumulation
- Small clothing fibers entering the hose
- Foreign objects from pockets (lint, paper, small debris)
- Kinked or pinched hose due to appliance movement
Symptoms of a clogged pressure hose:
- Machine stops during draining or spinning
- Slow or incomplete draining
- Unusual humming noises from the pump
- Error messages related to water level or drainage
A clogged hose restricts airflow and water detection. Without a proper reading, the control panel halts the draining phase to avoid damaging the pump.
Additional Issues That May Contribute
Although the drain sensor and pressure hose are the most common culprits, other factors may also influence draining problems:
Blocked drain pump
If the pump is clogged by coins, hairpins, or lint, it may run inefficiently or stop mid-cycle.
Faulty control board
The main motherboard can misinterpret signals, causing the machine to pause at incorrect times.
Improper installation
If the drain hose is installed too high or incorrectly positioned, water flow can be restricted.
Proper troubleshooting requires a full inspection to correctly identify the issue.
Why You Should Not Ignore This Problem
A washing machine that stops during draining isn’t just inconvenient. It can lead to long-term damage:
- The pump can burn out from repeated strain
- Excess water pressure can damage the tub
- Electrical components may short-circuit
- Mold and mildew can form in stagnant water
Addressing the issue early ensures your appliance remains efficient and extends its overall lifespan.
When to Call a Professional
Drain sensor and pressure hose failures are not simple DIY repairs. They involve electrical components, water pressure mechanisms, and precise safety systems. Incorrect handling may worsen the problem or create additional risks such as leaks or electrical hazards.
A qualified technician can:
- Diagnose electrical and sensor-related issues
- Clean or replace the pressure hose
- Test the drain pump and wiring
- Reset or replace the water level sensor
- Ensure the entire drain system functions correctly
If your washing machine repeatedly stops during draining, it is time to schedule a professional inspection.
If your washing machine stops mid-drain or shows signs of draining failure, contact the experts at HOME APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTER. Our technicians provide reliable diagnostic services and fast repairs to restore your appliance to full performance. Don’t wait until the issue escalates. Schedule your service today and get your washing machine running smoothly again.
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