Definition
The drain pump is the small electric pump that evacuates dirty water from a washing machine or dishwasher at the end of each cycle. It is a high-failure-rate component in both appliances because socks, coins, hair pins, and food debris regularly enter it and jam the impeller. When the drain pump fails or clogs, the appliance leaves standing water behind.
What It Does
At the appropriate point in the cycle, the control board energizes the drain pump motor, which spins an impeller inside the pump housing. The impeller pulls water out of the tub and pushes it through the drain hose to the standpipe or air gap. Most modern drain pumps are magnetically coupled — a magnet on the motor shaft turns an impeller through a sealed wall, so there are no shaft seals to leak.
Where It’s Located
Washer: bottom front of front-load washers (often behind a small access panel with a clean-out filter — Samsung, LG, Whirlpool Duet) or bottom front of top-load HE washers. Dishwasher: mounted at the bottom of the tub under the access panel — Bosch, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE all use similar designs.
Common Failure Signs
- Washer ends with water still standing in the drum
- Loud humming or buzzing during the drain portion of the cycle
- Dishwasher leaves a puddle in the bottom after each cycle
- Error codes: Samsung 5E/ND, LG OE, Whirlpool F9E1, Bosch E22/E24
- Rattling sound from the bottom of the appliance (object trapped in impeller)
Typical Replacement Cost
$170–$290 including parts and labor. The pump itself is $40–$120. Removing trapped objects is a $75 diagnostic visit if the pump tests good after the obstruction is cleared.
DIY vs Pro
DIY possible on most front-load washers with a clean-out filter — open the access panel, drain the pump, and check for trapped objects first. If the pump motor hums but the impeller does not turn, replacement is moderate DIY (1 hour). Dishwasher drain pumps are slightly harder because the appliance has to be pulled out. Book dishwasher repair or washer repair.
Need this part replaced? Call (720) 447-8577 for same-day washer repair in the Denver metro area.