How Much Does Washer Drain Pump Replacement Cost?

By Hannah Stephens

October 24, 2026

Opening your washer expecting to find a load of clean, drained laundry, only to discover your clothes are still dripping wet, is enough to make any homeowner's heart sink. Soaking wet clothes, funky smells and weird noises coming from your machine are signs you may need a washer drain pump replacement.

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In this article, we'll outline how much DIY and professional washer drain pump replacement costs and when to call a professional.

What Is a Washing Machine Drain Pump?

A washer drain pump removes dirty water from your machine during wash and spin cycles. It contains a spinning motor that sucks water from the drum, directing it through the drain hose into your home's drainage system. Without a functioning drain pump, your machine won't remove water from the wash, leaving your clothes soaking wet at the end of a cycle.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Washing Machine Pump?

According to HomeGuide, washer drain pump replacement costs $150 to $300 (CAD 214 to CAD 428), including the cost of the part and labor. A replacement pump typically costs $20 to $100 (CAD 29 to CAD 143). Washer machine repair technicians usually charge between $130 and $200 (CAD 185 to CAD 285) for installation.

Signs You Need Washer Drain Pump Replacement

The most common sign of a faulty washer drain pump is inadequate drainage. As your pump begins to fail, you may notice clothes remaining wet even after a spin cycle. You'll likely experience standing water in the drum as the problem worsens.

Most modern washers have a safety switch that stops the machine from starting a spin cycle if the drum is full of water. If your machine stops before the spin cycle begins, a broken washer drain pump could be the culprit.

Other common signs of a failing pump include:

Error codes
Humming, rattling, squealing or other unusual noises
Leaks under the front or bottom of the washer
Dirty, smelly water inside the drum
A burning odor

You should stop using your machine immediately and schedule repairs if you notice signs of a faulty washer pump, especially if you notice burning smells. A burning smell is a sign that an electrical component is overheating and indicates a fire risk. In this situation, turn off the power to your washer, unplug it and don't try to use it until a professional has completed repairs.

What Causes a Drain Pump to Go Out on a Washer?

The most common causes of a broken washer drain pump include physical blockages, electrical problems and wear and tear.

Foreign-object blockages can jam the impeller, preventing the motor from turning and removing dirty water. Debris can also block the pump intake, stopping water from moving through the pump and into the drain hose.

Items that can block a washer drain pump include:

Coins
Pet hair
Lint
Socks
Fabric softener residue
Screws
Bra wires

Your drain pump has to work harder when an object clogs the intake or jams the impeller. These issues put your pump under significant strain, which can eventually cause problems like broken impeller blades or burned-out motor coils.

Age can also affect your washer drain pump's condition. Over time, the bearings that enable the motor to turn smoothly can rust or wear down, causing the pump to seize. Stress, extended exposure to hot water and harsh detergents can also degrade the pump's plastic housing and damage the internal rubber seals that protect the electrical components against water ingress. When this happens, the pump may start leaking water or short-circuit.

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Is Washer Drain Pump Repair DIY-Friendly?

Repairing a broken washer drain pump is rarely an option. If your pump is broken, replacing it is usually quicker and more cost-effective.

Confident DIYers can usually replace a washer drain pump themselves, and doing so can help you save money on a washer machine repair technician. Always follow the instructions in your owner's manual if you plan to replace the pump yourself.

However, replacing a washer drain pump involves wiring, and you could seriously damage your machine if you install it incorrectly. If you're unsure, hiring a professional is the safest option.

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