What this error means
Drainage fault — machine cannot empty the water from the drum
The E18 or F18 error means the machine failed to drain within the expected time. This is most often caused by a blocked pump filter, a kinked or obstructed drain hose, or a foreign object jamming the pump impeller. A failing drain pump motor can also trigger this fault.
Also known as: E:18, e:18, e18, F18, f18, F:18, f:18
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 still in the drum
- Straining, gurgling, or humming sound from the pump area during draining
- E18 or F18 displayed near the end of a wash or rinse phase
How to fix it
Unplug the machine from the mains first. Lay several old towels on the floor in front of the machine and get a shallow baking tray or wide bowl ready to catch water. Even after a failed drain attempt there can be 3 to 5 litres of water still trapped inside the machine.
Find the small rectangular flap or removable kick-strip panel at the very bottom front of the machine. Open it using the tab or a flat coin. You will see the round filter cap. Place your tray directly underneath it. Slowly turn the cap anti-clockwise by about a quarter turn only — this releases water in a controlled trickle rather than a sudden rush. Empty your tray as needed and continue until the flow stops, then unscrew the cap fully and pull the filter out. If the filter cap won’t unscrew, there’s likely debris jamming it from inside — try rapidly tightening then loosening with rubber gloves for grip before attempting again.
Rinse the filter under warm running water, using an old toothbrush to scrub the mesh holes clear of lint and debris. Then reach carefully into the filter housing cavity inside the machine and feel around the entrance to the pump for anything lodged there.
With the filter removed, shine a torch into the filter cavity. At the back of the housing you should be able to see the pump impeller — a small plastic fan blade. Try to turn it gently with your finger. It should spin freely with light resistance. If it is stiff, stuck, or will not move at all, there is a blockage in the pump or the impeller is damaged.
Pull the machine slightly away from the wall. Trace the corrugated drain hose from the back of the machine to the standpipe or sink. Straighten any kinks or tight bends. Check the hose end in the standpipe — it should be inserted no more than 15 cm and should not be sealed against the pipe walls with tape or fittings, as this prevents air entry needed for drainage. 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 — do not overtighten as the plastic thread can crack. Close the access panel. Plug the machine back in and select a Spin Only or Drain programme. You should hear the pump activate and water should flow out of the drain hose within 30 seconds.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller is cracked, has broken blades, or will not rotate by hand after filter removal
- Pump motor hums but produces no water flow — pump winding is likely burnt out
- E18 returns immediately after cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose
- Burning smell or visible scorch marks in the pump area of the machine
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to leave standing water in the drum?
Can I drain the drum manually when E18 stops mid-cycle?
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Could a blocked filter damage the machine permanently?
🎯 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 | £25 - £60 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
| Drain pump | £25 - £60 | 🛒 Amazon 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.