What this error means
Drainage failure — the washing machine cannot empty the water from the drum
The F05 error means the washing machine has failed to drain within the expected time. This is most commonly caused by a blocked pump filter, a kinked or obstructed drain hose, or a foreign object jamming the pump impeller. In some cases a failing drain pump motor will also produce this fault.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Water visible in the drum at the end of a cycle
- Machine stops mid-programme with water remaining in the drum
- Straining, gurgling, or loud humming from the pump area during draining
- F05 displayed near the end of a wash or rinse phase
How to fix it
Unplug the machine from the mains first — this is not optional. Lay several old towels on the floor in front of the machine and get a shallow baking tray or wide bowl ready. Even after a failed drain there can be 3 to 5 litres of water trapped inside.
At the very bottom front of the machine, open the small rectangular flap or kick-strip panel using a tab or flat coin. You will see the round filter cap. Place your tray directly underneath. Turn the cap anti-clockwise by just a quarter turn to release water in a controlled trickle — do not unscrew it fully straight away. Empty your tray as needed until the flow stops, then unscrew the cap fully and pull out the filter.
Rinse the filter under warm running water and scrub the mesh holes with an old toothbrush to clear lint and debris. Then reach carefully into the filter housing and feel around the pump entrance for anything lodged inside.
With the filter removed, shine a torch into the cavity. At the back you should see the pump impeller — a small plastic fan. Try to turn it gently with one finger. It should rotate freely with light resistance. If it is stiff, stuck, or will not move, there is a blockage in the pump body or the impeller is broken.
Pull the machine slightly away from the wall and trace the corrugated drain hose to the standpipe or sink. Straighten any kinks. Ensure the hose end is inserted no more than 15 cm into the standpipe and is not sealed against the pipe walls — air must be able to enter for drainage to work. The lowest point of the hose must be at least 60 cm from the floor.
Refit the filter and tighten it firmly clockwise until it stops. Close the access panel. Plug back in and select Spin Only or Drain. You should hear the pump activate within seconds and water should flow from the drain hose.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller cracked, has broken blades, or will not turn by hand after filter removal
- Pump motor hums but no water moves — winding is likely burnt out
- F05 returns immediately after cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose
- Burning smell or visible scorch marks in the pump area under the machine
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to leave water standing in the drum?
Can I drain the drum manually when F05 stops the machine mid-cycle?
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Could a blocked filter damage the machine?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Drain Pump Filters | £7 - £15 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Drain Pump Motor | £10 - £20 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.