GE Residential Washing Machine Basics

• Most GE residential washing machines have dual washtubs. The inner tub holds laundry while the outer tub contains water. The outer tub is directly attached to the drain hose, which is connected to the water pump. The pump works on a pulley mechanism whereby a small arm moves up and down to push water from the outer tub through the drain hose and out the drain line. Although the dual washtub design is meant to prevent laundry from ending up in the drain line, sometimes it happens.
  
  

Empty Washing Machine Contents

• Cut power to the washing machine to avoid electrical shock. Remove laundry from the washtub, taking stock of each item, and place it into a waterproof container. If you're missing an item, it's likely caught somewhere in the machine, which is why the washer won't drain. Consult your GE residential washing machine guide for instructions on how to manually drain water from the tub. Washing machines usually have a drain hose or pipe located in the rear of the machine underneath a small flap that you can use to empty it. Let water drain into a sink, sump pump or large plastic container, such as a garbage can.
  
  

Locate the Clog

• Review the washing machine manual if you're have trouble locating the washer's main access panel. After you find it, open it up to view the washtubs and drain hose. The drain hose is a large diameter rubber hose that links from the outer tub to the water pump. Detach the drain hose to reveal the entrance to the water pump. Use a pair of pliers or kitchen tongs to reach into the portal and pull out the clog. Contact a washing machine repair technician if you're unable to locate the obstruction. The further down the drain line the obstruction travels, the more involved the search becomes.
  
  

Worn Drainage System Components

• If you don't suspect you're dealing with a clog, a part of the drainage system might have failed, which would explain why the washer fails to drain. One of the first components to test is the pulley mechanism that operates the water pump. Over time, the pump can wear and become stiff. The stiffer it gets, the less able it is to move up and down and push water from the machine. Refer to the GE washing machine guide for instructions on where to locate the pulley mechanism. Once it's located, move the arm up and down with your hand. If it doesn't move without difficulty, it needs replacing. In certain cases, both the pulley mechanism and the water pump need switching out to restore the function of the washer.