Drain Error (Water Not Pumping Out)

What it means

On Siemens front-load washing machines this code appears when the machine runs the drain pump but the water level does not drop in the expected time. Water stays in the drum and the program stops before spinning, most often because of the pump filter or drain hose. Older models may show the fault as an F code such as F18, and the same number can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Siemens front-load washing machines; newer models show E codes, older ones F codes.

Related codes: E17E23F21

Symptoms4

• The program stops before the spin and E18 shows.
• The door stays locked because the water has not drained.
• Water and foam visible behind the door glass.
• No sound from the pump, or a grinding noise from it.

Possible causes5

• A pump filter blocked with lint or items left in pockets.
• A drain hose kinked behind the machine or blocked at its end.
• A blocked floor drain or sink trap.
• A small object stuck in the pump impeller.
• A faulty drain pump or pump connection.

How to diagnose5

1. Unplug the washer, and if the program was hot, wait for the water to cool.
2. Open the filter cover at the bottom front, prepare a shallow tray and plenty of towels, pull out the small emergency hose if fitted and drain in stages.
3. Unscrew the filter slowly, clean it, and check that the impeller behind it moves easily.
4. Follow the drain hose and make sure its end is not blocked and the drain outlet is clean.
5. If the code remains, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the pump and its internal hoses.

How to fix5

1. Clean the pump filter and close it firmly so it does not leak later.
2. Straighten the drain hose and clear its end or the drain outlet.
3. Empty pockets before washing and use a mesh bag for small items.
4. Have the technician replace the drain pump if confirmed faulty.
5. Run a spin program and confirm the water drains fully without the code.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Cleaning the filter usually costs nothing; the highest cost is a new drain pump.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions