Amana Top Load Washer: How to Manually Drain Water (No... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Amana top load washers use a Main Control Unit (MCU) to control the various components. The MCU receives input from the water level sensor and uses this information to activate the drain pump via a relay. The drain pump operates on 120V AC. A failed water level sensor can prevent the MCU from signaling the pump.

Symptoms:

The washer tub is full of water and the washer is not draining. The drain pump may be making a humming noise or no noise at all.

Possible Causes:

Clogged drain hose.
Kinked or blocked drain hose.
Failed drain pump.
Obstruction in the tub drain or pump inlet.
Defective water level sensor preventing pump activation.

Solution:

1

Disconnect the washer from the power outlet (120V AC). Verify power is off with a multimeter.
2

Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer. Usually held by a plastic clip.
3

Position a shallow pan or bucket near the end of the drain hose. Have towels ready for spills.
4

Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe or standpipe, directing it into the pan. Be prepared for water to flow out. Use pliers if necessary to loosen clamp.
5

If the water flow is slow or stopped, check the drain hose for kinks or obstructions. Remove any visible debris. Inspect the drain hose connection to the pump.
6

Once the water has drained, inspect the drain pump for obstructions. Access may require removing the front or rear panel of the washer using a 1/4-inch nut driver. Clean the pump inlet of any debris such as lint or small objects. Check for impeller damage.
7

Reconnect the drain hose and power the washer to test the drain function. Run a short rinse cycle.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter. Avoid overloading the washer with clothes. Inspect the drain hose periodically for kinks or damage. Run a washer cleaner cycle monthly.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana washers have a diagnostic mode. Press and hold the Start/Pause button for 3 seconds, then rotate the cycle selector knob one click clockwise, then back three clicks, and finally one click clockwise. This may display error codes or allow manual pump activation for testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump on my specific Amana top load washer model?

The access varies by model. Generally, you'll need to remove either the front or rear panel. Consult the service manual for your specific model, available online with the model number. Common tools include a 1/4-inch nut driver and a Phillips head screwdriver.

•What voltage should I expect to see at the drain pump when it's activated?

You should measure approximately 120V AC at the drain pump connector when the control board is sending the signal to drain. Use a multimeter to check the voltage. If there's no voltage, the issue is likely with the control board or the wiring.

•My drain pump seems fine, but the washer still won't drain. What else could be the problem?

If the pump is working and there are no obstructions, the water level sensor may be faulty. The MCU uses the water level sensor data to determine when to activate the drain pump. If the sensor is defective, it may not signal the control board to drain the water.

Amana Top Load Washer: How to Manually Drain Water (No Pump)

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump on my specific Amana top load washer model?

•What voltage should I expect to see at the drain pump when it's activated?

•My drain pump seems fine, but the washer still won't drain. What else could be the problem?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: