Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
If your washing machine fills and agitates but does not drain, something is probably wrong with the drain hose or the pump. The fact that the washer fills and agitates tells you that the motor works and the belt is fine (though some units have a separate belt for the pump, and direct-drive washing machines don’t have belts.)
1) Be sure the drain hose isn’t kinked.
2) Check the tab on the lid that strikes the lid switch; if it is broken, the washer may stop during the drain cycle. Press and release the lid switch. If it doesn’t click each time you do this, it’s probably broken. If you’re experienced at home repair, you can remove the switch, test it, and replace it if needed; otherwise, call an appliance repairperson.
3) The water pump may be broken or clogged with a small article of clothing, or the controls may be broken; call an appliance repairperson.
