Amana Washer Not Draining Completely - Causes & Fix

Amana Washer Not Draining Completely — What’s Happening

When an Amana washer does not drain completely, it leaves standing water in the tub at the end of a cycle. On Amana top-load HE models, this symptom typically triggers a ‘drn’ fault code, which Amana defines as ‘Washer is not draining properly.’ The brand notes this can be an installation problem rather than a failed component.

The issue is usually tied to the drain path: either a restriction in the external drain hose, an obstruction inside the drain pump or impeller, or incorrect plumbing setup. Less commonly, the drain pump motor itself has failed or its wiring has come loose.

Jump to Fix

Most Likely Causes

• Kinked, crushed, or clogged drain hose The most common cause is a drain hose that is bent, pinched behind the washer, or blocked by lint and debris, preventing water from exiting the tub.
• Incorrect drain hose installation or routing Amana specifically flags installation problems for the ‘drn’ code, including hose routed too high, standpipe issues, or improper connection to house plumbing.
• Clogged drain pump or jammed impeller Debris such as coins, socks, or lint can lodge in the pump housing or jam the impeller, blocking water flow even if the motor runs.
• Failed drain pump motor If the pump is clear of obstructions but does not run or hums weakly, the pump motor itself has likely burned out and needs replacement.
• Loose or corroded pump wiring connector Field service reports show pump connectors can pull loose or corrode due to moisture exposure, cutting power to the pump.
• Blocked drain filter (if equipped) Some Amana models have a drain filter that can trap small objects and restrict flow if not cleaned periodically.

How to Diagnose and Fix

1. Unplug the washer and wait 60 seconds, then plug back in to reset the control board and clear any transient faults.
2. Pull the washer forward and inspect the entire drain hose for kinks, crushing, or visible clogs, and verify it is not inserted more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe.
3. Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer and check both the hose outlet and the washer drain port for blockage or debris buildup.
4. Access the drain pump (usually through a lower front or rear panel depending on model) and check the pump inlet and outlet for objects or buildup.
5. Inspect the pump wiring connector for looseness, pulled terminals, or corrosion, and reseat or clean as needed.
6. Manually turn the pump impeller (if accessible) to check for free rotation and remove any lodged debris.
7. Test the pump motor for continuity with a multimeter if wiring is intact and the pump does not run during a drain cycle.
8. Replace the drain pump if it fails the continuity test, does not run, or runs weakly, then reassemble and run a drain/spin test cycle to verify the tub empties fully.

Parts You Might Need

Related Error Codes

If your appliance also shows a code on the display, these match this problem:

• Amana Washer Dlo error code
• Amana Washer Drn error code
• Amana Washer Du error code
• Amana Washer F5 E2 error code
• Amana Washer F7 E1 error code
• Amana Washer F8 E1 error code
• Amana Washer F8 E2 error code
• Amana Washer F9 E1 error code
• Amana Washer Fd error code
• Amana Washer Hc error code
• Amana Washer Ldl error code
• Amana Washer Ldu error code

When to Call a Pro

Call a professional if you are uncomfortable working with electrical connectors or accessing internal components behind panels. Also call if you have replaced the drain hose and pump but the washer still will not drain, since the fault may involve the control board, pressure switch, or a wiring harness issue that requires diagnostic tools and schematic knowledge.