How to Fix Drain pump failure on GE GTW720BSNWS (Top Load)

Drain pump failure

This step-by-step repair guide walks you through fixing drain pump failure on your GE GTW720BSNWS (Top Load). With the right tools and parts, most homeowners can complete this repair in 1–2 hours and avoid a costly service call.

Part of our Top 20 Washing machine Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all washing machine repair guides for related models and issues.

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Common Symptoms & Causes

The following symptoms on your GE GTW720BSNWS typically point to a failing or blocked drain pump.

The washer stops mid-cycle and displays an “E3” or “Drain” error code on the control panel
Standing water remains in the drum after the spin cycle completes
You hear a loud humming or grinding noise during the drain cycle but water does not pump out
The washer door lid locks and the machine becomes unresponsive, preventing a new cycle from starting

These issues are most commonly caused by a burned-out drain pump motor, a clogged pump filter blocked by lint or debris, or worn pump impeller blades that can no longer move water effectively.

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Safety First

Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
Shut off the water supply valve before disconnecting any water lines or hoses.
Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
¼” nut driver
Torx T20 screwdriver
Multimeter
Bucket and towels

Replacement Parts

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet before doing anything else — working on a live machine near water is a serious electrocution risk. Tip the machine backward at a 45° angle to expose the drain pump on the underside of the cabinet; have a helper hold it steady or prop it firmly against the wall, because an unsecured washer can shift and fall. This angle gives you clear access to the pump without fully disassembling the machine.

Step 2

Clamp or firmly pinch both pump hoses before disconnecting them so residual water in the tub doesn’t spill onto the floor and create a slip hazard. Use a 5/16″ nut driver to loosen the hose clamps, pull the hoses off the pump, and inspect the inside of each hose and the pump inlet for obstructions — socks, coins, and small garments are the most common culprits and will completely block water flow even if the pump motor itself is fine. Clear any debris you find before condemning the pump.

Step 3

Set your multimeter to Rx1 and probe the pump motor terminals to test the winding; a reading of infinity (open circuit) means the winding has failed, while a reading of zero indicates a short, and either result means the motor must be replaced. If the winding reads in the normal low-resistance range but the impeller won’t spin freely by hand, the impeller is seized — replace the pump assembly rather than trying to free it, as it will fail again under load. A replacement pump for the GTW720BSNWS typically runs $25–45 and is the most cost-effective fix at this price point.

Step 4

Disconnect the wiring harness connector from the pump — press the tab and pull straight out to avoid breaking the clip — then remove the two mounting screws securing the pump to the base frame. Install the new pump by reversing these steps, making sure the hose clamps are repositioned past the bead on each port and tightened firmly; a loose clamp is one of the most common causes of a leak comeback after this repair. Route the harness away from any moving parts before buttoning everything back up.

Step 5

Before standing the machine back up, walk around to the rear and check the drain hose for kinks, which restrict flow enough to trigger the same drain-failure symptoms even with a perfect pump. Also confirm the hose is inserted no more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe; inserting it deeper creates a siphon effect that can cause the washer to either drain slowly or continuously refill, mimicking a pump fault. If the hose end is cracked or brittle, replace it now while access is easy.

Step 6

Return the washer to its upright position, reconnect the power cord, and run a Drain & Spin cycle to immediately verify the repair under real conditions. Watch for leaks at both hose connections during the first minute of operation and confirm that the tub drains completely within approximately two minutes — lingering water after that window suggests a remaining obstruction or an issue with the control board’s drain command. If drainage is clean and fast with no leaks, the repair is complete.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

Find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your GE GTW720BSNWS (Top Load) on Amazon:

When to Call a Professional

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, the problem may involve the sealed refrigerant system, a failed main control board, or wiring that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Contact a licensed appliance technician — attempting sealed-system repairs without EPA 608 certification is illegal and unsafe.

How Much Does This Repair Cost?

Replacing the drain pump on a GE GTW720BSNWS yourself typically costs between $25 and $65 for the replacement part. A professional repair, including labor and the service call, usually runs $150 to $300. Tackling this repair as a DIY project can save you $100 or more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the drain pump on my GE GTW720BSNWS has actually failed?

The most common signs are standing water left in the tub after a cycle or an error code like E3 appearing on the control panel. You may also hear a humming noise during the drain cycle with no water movement.

Can I replace the drain pump on the GE GTW720BSNWS myself?

Yes, this is a manageable DIY repair with basic tools and a replacement pump rated for this model. Always unplug the washer before starting and have towels ready to catch residual water.

How much does a replacement drain pump for the GE GTW720BSNWS typically cost?

A compatible drain pump generally costs between $30 and $70 depending on the supplier. Buying directly from GE or a reputable parts retailer ensures you get the correct part for this model.

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