Search intent
The user sees standing water in the drum or a drain-related code and wants to know safely whether it is a filter, hose, or service issue.
Troubleshooting guide
Why a washing machine will not drain and what to check first
A quick guide for the moment when the washer leaves water in the drum. Likely causes, safe home checks, and the point where you should stop.
Washing machine5 minUpdated 2026-04-19
Symptom summary
Water left in the drum usually points to a restricted drain path, a blocked pump filter, or a drain-pump problem.
Likely causes
- A blocked pump filter or a foreign object in the pump area.
- A kinked or pinched drain hose.
- A restricted outlet path to the siphon.
- A drain-pump fault if the problem returns after cleaning.
Safe DIY checks
- Disconnect the washer from power and keep towels ready for drained water.
- Clean the pump filter and check for coins, lint, or other debris.
- Inspect the drain hose along its full run for kinks or blockages.
When to stop
- Stop if water is leaking onto the floor.
- Stop if the appliance trips the breaker or smells burnt.
Next step
Turn the guide into a real FixLens diagnosis
The guide narrows the problem, but the FixLens diagnosis also accounts for the exact brand, model, and error code.
Related codes
Directly related error-code pages
Bosch · E:21
Drainage Issue Detected
The washer cannot drain water correctly. The most likely cause is a restricted drain path or a blocked pump filter.