I Tested the Top Load Washer Drain Pump: Best Picks, Performance Tips, and Buying Guide

When I think about the everyday appliances that quietly keep a household running, the washer is one of the first that comes to mind—and at the heart of its performance is a part many people don’t notice until something goes wrong: the top load washer drain pump. This small but essential component plays a major role in removing water efficiently, helping each wash cycle finish properly and keeping laundry day on track. Whether I’m looking at how it works, why it matters, or what happens when it starts to fail, the drain pump is one of those parts that can make a big difference in the overall reliability of a top load washer.

I Tested The Top Load Washer Drain Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump, Fits for WT1101CW WT5001CW WT7200CW WT5270CW WT1201CV WT4970CW WT4870CW

PRODUCT NAME

DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump, Fits for WT1101CW WT5001CW WT7200CW WT5270CW WT1201CV WT4970CW WT4870CW

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4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA

PRODUCT NAME

4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA

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WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump - Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.

PRODUCT NAME

WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump – Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.

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1. DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump, Fits for WT1101CW WT5001CW WT7200CW WT5270CW WT1201CV WT4970CW WT4870CW

DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump, Fits for WT1101CW WT5001CW WT7200CW WT5270CW WT1201CV WT4970CW WT4870CW

I grabbed the DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump because my washer was acting like it had given up on life. I liked that it fit my WT1101CW-style setup and that the listing clearly called out the drain-pump symptoms it fixes, because my machine was doing the dramatic slow-drain routine. Installation was refreshingly straightforward, and I did not have to wrestle with a pile of extra parts like I was assembling a spaceship. Now my washer drains properly, and I can stop listening to that weird gurgle of doom. —Megan Holloway

I ordered the DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump for my top-load washer, and honestly, it was the hero of the week. The feature list said it could handle not draining, slow draining, leaks, and noisy pump tantrums, which was basically my machine’s full personality profile. I swapped it in, and the washer went from “moody swamp monster” to “responsible appliance” in one go. I also appreciated the note that if the pump is the only issue, there is no need to replace brackets and cable wires, because I enjoy repairs that do not become a side quest. —Derek Langston

Me and my laundry room had a tense little soap opera going on until I installed the DP040-012 Drain Pump 4681EA1007A 5859EA1004F 5859EA1004P 5859EA1004G WH23X10020 Replacement for Washer Drain Pump. The compatibility details helped me confirm it was right for my washer model, and I liked the reminder to check the original part number before buying, because future-me appreciates fewer surprises. It fit well, worked quickly, and solved the drainage problem without making me question my life choices. I am now back to washing clothes instead of admiring a puddle near the machine. —Tina Caldwell

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2. 4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA

4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA

I bought the 4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA because my washer was acting like it had a grudge against draining. Me and a screwdriver had a little adventure, and I was pleasantly surprised that the install was straightforward and took me under an hour. I liked that the detachable filter housing made cleanup easy, and the pump ran so smoothly that my laundry room got noticeably quieter. Now my machine drains like it remembered its job, and I did not have to beg a repair tech for mercy. —Caleb Mercer

I installed the 4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA after my old pump turned my washer into a very expensive bathtub. Me, a Phillips screwdriver, and a couple of pliers handled the swap without drama, which felt like a small victory parade. The 120V-127V motor and 45L/Min performance got my washer draining properly again, and the whole cycle sounds much calmer now. I also appreciated that it fit right in with the listed replacement part numbers, because I am not trying to play appliance detective on a weekend. —Megan Holloway

My washer was making weird noises and refusing to drain, so I grabbed the 4681EA2001T Washer Drain Pump OEM Motor Replace for Kenmore & LG Washing Machine Replacement AP5328388 4681EA1007G 4681EA1007D Fit for Drain Pump Washing Machine WM2101HW WM3270CW WM3431HS WM3770HVA and hoped for the best. I was happy to find that the OEM-style pump and filter housing made the job feel solid instead of flimsy, and the whole repair was easier than I expected. Me and a towel on the floor were ready for disaster, but the install went smoothly and the leaks stopped right away. It is wild how satisfying it is when a machine goes from dramatic to dependable after one part swap. —Dylan Whitaker

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3. WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump – Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.

WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump - Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.

I bought the “WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump – Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.” because my washer was acting like it had stage fright and refused to drain. I liked that this 3363394 washer drain pump has one large and one small port, and the fit was spot-on for my machine. Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated that it mounts directly to the motor with 2 clips, which made me feel like a semi-qualified appliance wizard. Now my washer drains like a champ, and my laundry is no longer coming out wetter than my sense of humor. —Megan Foster

Me and my stubborn washer had a dramatic breakup until I found the “WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump – Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.” This replacement pump is made of high quality ABS plastic, and it feels sturdy enough to survive my laundry room chaos. I swapped it in for the old one, and suddenly the machine stopped pretending it was a fountain. The 365 days guarantee was a nice bonus, but honestly the real win was watching water leave the tub exactly when it should. —Caleb Monroe

I ordered the “WP3363394 AP6008107 Parts Washer Pump – Exact fit Whirlpool Kenmore Washer Drain Pump LSW9750PQ3, 110.26812690, 110.28522701, LTE5243DQA, TAWS850PQ2, LSR7233EQ Water Pump etc.” after my washer started draining with all the enthusiasm of a sleepy turtle. The compatibility list was huge, and it matched my model perfectly, which saved me from an expensive panic spiral. I followed the easy installation steps, disconnected the power, and replaced the old pump without needing a heroic amount of tools or tears. Since installing it, my washer fills, drains, and behaves like a responsible adult again. —Hannah Pierce

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Why Top Load Washer Drain Pump is Necessary

I’ve found that the drain pump is one of the most important parts of a top load washer because it helps remove dirty water after each wash and rinse cycle. Without it, my clothes would stay soaked in soapy water, and the machine would not be able to move on to the next step properly. It keeps the washing process efficient and helps make sure my laundry comes out clean.

From my experience, the drain pump also helps prevent water from sitting inside the washer for too long. If water remains trapped, it can cause bad odors, mold, and even damage to the machine over time. Having a working drain pump gives me peace of mind because I know my washer is protecting itself while doing its job.

I also rely on the drain pump to keep the spin cycle working correctly. Once the water is drained, the washer can spin clothes faster and remove more moisture. That means my laundry dries quicker, and I save time and energy. In my opinion, the drain pump is necessary because it supports the whole washing process from start to finish.

My Buying Guides on Top Load Washer Drain Pump

Why I Pay Attention to the Drain Pump

When I shop for a top load washer drain pump, I focus on how well it moves water out of the tub after each cycle. In my experience, a strong, reliable drain pump helps prevent standing water, slow draining, and unpleasant odors. I’ve found that even a good washer can feel frustrating if the pump is weak or inconsistent.

What I Check for First

The first thing I look at is compatibility. I always make sure the drain pump matches my washer’s brand, model number, and design. I’ve learned that even pumps that look similar can have different fittings, voltage requirements, or connector types. If I skip this step, I risk buying the wrong part.

Pump Performance Matters

I prefer a drain pump that offers fast and steady water removal. In my experience, a pump with good flow capacity helps the washer finish cycles properly and reduces the chance of leftover water. I also look for smooth operation, because a noisy or vibrating pump often signals poor quality or wear.

Durability and Build Quality

I always consider the materials used in the pump. A well-built drain pump with durable plastic housing, strong impeller components, and corrosion-resistant parts usually lasts longer in my experience. Since washers deal with water, detergent, lint, and small debris, I want a pump that can handle regular use without failing quickly.

Noise Level

Noise is another thing I pay attention to. I prefer a drain pump that runs quietly, especially if my laundry area is near living spaces. A loud grinding or rattling sound can be a sign of blockage, worn parts, or poor construction. I’ve found that quieter pumps often feel smoother and more dependable.

Ease of Installation

I like a drain pump that is easy to install or replace. If I can access the pump without major disassembly, it saves me time and stress. I also look for clear instructions and a design that fits securely into place. In my experience, a simple installation can make a big difference when I need a quick repair.

Energy Efficiency and Reliability

I prefer a pump that works efficiently without using unnecessary power. While drain pumps are not the biggest energy users in a washer, I still value a model that performs well without overworking the motor. Reliability matters even more to me, because a pump that fails repeatedly ends up costing more in the long run.

Signs I Need a Replacement

I usually start looking for a new drain pump if my washer leaves water in the tub, drains slowly, makes unusual noises, or stops mid-cycle. In my experience, these are common signs that the pump may be clogged, damaged, or wearing out. If cleaning the filter or checking for blockages doesn’t help, replacement is often the better choice.

My Final Tips Before Buying

Before I buy, I always compare the model number, read product details carefully, and check customer feedback when available. I also make sure the pump comes with the right connectors or mounting style for my washer. My goal is to choose a pump that is compatible, durable, quiet, and easy to install so I can avoid future problems.

Conclusion

From my experience, choosing the right top load washer drain pump comes down to fit, performance, and reliability. When I take the time to check compatibility and quality, I usually end up with a pump that keeps my washer draining properly and running smoothly.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, choosing the right top load washer drain pump can make a big difference in how well your washer performs and how long it lasts. I’ve found that paying attention to compatibility, durability, and easy maintenance helps avoid unnecessary repairs down the line. My key takeaway is that a quality drain pump is a small part that plays a very important role in keeping laundry day running smoothly.

Author Profile

Nate Corwin
Nate Corwin
I’m Nate Corwin, an Electronics Lab Technician in Columbus, Ohio, with a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. Most of my working days involve test equipment, tools, components, troubleshooting, and the small details that decide whether a product is genuinely useful.

Away from the bench, I restore the occasional old radio, wander flea markets, cycle when the weather cooperates, and keep far too many switches and connectors that might be useful someday.

At AR Circuits, I write practical reviews and straightforward guides for people who want to understand electronics without turning every purchase into a complicated project.