How to Fix an Overflowing Water Return for a Washing Machine

Overflowing Tub

• 1

  Unplug your washing machine power cord. Check the control console to determine how it comes off the top of the washer. Some have a screw at the bottom of each end cap, while others have a spring clip under the end caps.

• 2

  Remove the screws securing the control console to the washer top, using a Phillips screwdriver. If you have a Whirlpool or Kenmore, the screws might be hidden behind pieces of trim that unsnap from the console. If you have no visible screws, slide a putty knife under the end caps to release the spring clips. Rotate the control console back so that you have access to the parts.

• 3

  Find the water pressure switch for your washer. It is usually on the back of the control console behind the load-size knob. The water pressure switch has a small plastic tube that connects to it from the tub. In most instances of overfilling, the tube has simply come off the water pressure switch. If this is the case, find the end of the tube and slip it over the nozzle on the water pressure switch.

• 4

  Remove the tube from the pressure switch, if it is still attached. The tube simply pulls off the switch nozzle. Remove the screws securing the pressure switch to the control console, using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the wire connector off the switch with your fingers.

• 5

  Take the pressure switch to an appliance repair shop for a replacement. Install the new switch in the back of the console, lining up the mounting holes with the control console holes. Secure with the retaining screws.

• 6

  Push the wire connector onto the terminal on the new pressure switch, then push the end of the tube over the pressure switch nozzle. Reconnect the control console to the top of the washer. Plug the power cord into the wall socket.

Overflowing Drain

• 7

  Find the clean-out for the house drain line, if the washer drain pipe is backing up. The washer drain pipe connects to the house drain under the house, if you have a crawl space. If you do not have a crawl space, look for the clean-out in the laundry room where the washer drain pipe connects to the house drain. The clean-out is a plug on the end of the pipe with a square protruding from it.

• 8

  Place a bucket under the clean-out. Turn the clean-out counterclockwise with a pipe wrench. Remove the clean-out and allow any water in the pipe to drain into the bucket. If water is in the main house drain line, the clog is in the house line. If no water is present in the house line, the clog is in the washer drain pipe.

• 9

  Pull the washer drain hose out of the washer drain pipe in the wall, if the clog appears to be in the washer drain pipe. Insert a plumber's snake into the top of the washer drain pipe where the drain hose connects to the pipe.

• 10

  Push the plumber's snake through the pipe with the handle until you break through the clog. Clogs in the washer drain pipe are usually either a small piece of clothing or wet lint buildup.

• 11

  Place the washer drain hose back in the drain pipe once you get through the clog. If the clog is in the main house line, snake the line just as you would the washer drain pipe. Thread the clean-out plug back onto the house drain pipe and tighten with the pipe wrench.