Asko Washer E4 Error: Drain failure
Asko washer E4 error is a common issue reported by Asko appliance owners. What Asko Error Code E4 Means Error code E4 on Asko washing machines means the drain cycle timed out — the machine attempted to pump water out of the drum but could not empty it within the allowed time. This stops the […]
Sometimes
DIY Fixable
From $160
Typical Repair Cost
45-90 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. The machine cannot complete a wash cycle with a drain fault active. Running it risks flooding from overflow and leaves clothes unable to spin dry. Resolve the drain issue before the next wash.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Power off at mains for 60 seconds to reset. Clear the pump filter and verify hose routing before powering back on.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: The pump makes a loud grinding or burning smell during operation — switch off immediately., Water is leaking from the pump filter housing after refitting the cap..
Symptoms You May Notice
Standing water visible in drum at end of cycle
After the cycle finishes or is interrupted, water is clearly visible through the door glass sitting at the bottom of the drum.
Pump runs continuously without clearing water
A loud humming from the drain pump can be heard for an extended period but the water level does not drop before E4 is triggered.
Cycle stalls at spin or rinse stage
The program pauses during the rinse-out or pre-spin drain phase and cannot advance because the drum is not empty.
Clothes feel excessively wet at cycle end
Laundry removed from the machine is saturated as though the spin cycle never ran, because the machine could not drain before spinning.
Possible Causes
Blocked pump filter (lint / coin trap)
The drain pump filter, accessible behind the service flap at the front bottom of the machine, is clogged with lint, coins, buttons, or debris from pockets.
DIY PossibleKinked or incorrectly positioned drain hose
The drain hose at the back of the machine may be kinked, or the standpipe height may exceed the 100 cm maximum, creating a siphon effect that prevents drainage.
DIY PossibleFailed drain pump motor
The drain pump impeller may be seized due to a foreign object, or the pump motor winding has burnt out, preventing any pumping action.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Drain manually and clean the pump filter
Place a shallow tray under the service flap at the front bottom of the machine. Open the flap and pull out the small emergency drain hose (if fitted) to drain water slowly. Then unscrew the pump filter cap anticlockwise. Remove and rinse the filter thoroughly, clearing all lint and any foreign objects from the filter housing.
On Asko W6 series models the filter cap requires a quarter-turn anticlockwise. Have several towels ready as up to 3 litres of water may be retained.
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2
Check drain hose routing and standpipe height
Pull the machine out and inspect the drain hose at the rear. Ensure there are no kinks or sharp bends. Confirm the hose outlet into the standpipe or sink is no higher than 100 cm from the floor. If the hose dips down behind a unit before rising, reroute it to maintain a continuous upward slope to the standpipe.
A drain hose that hangs too low creates a siphon that continuously drains during fill — this can also contribute to E2 and E4 together.
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3
Refit filter, reset and run a drain/spin cycle
Refit the pump filter cap firmly. Power the machine off at mains for 60 seconds, then restore power. Select the Drain & Spin program (or the shortest spin cycle) and listen for the pump activating smoothly without loud rattling.
If the pump runs quietly and empties the drum, the blockage has been cleared. A grinding or rattling pump sound may indicate a foreign object still lodged in the impeller housing.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- No humming from the drain pump when a cycle starts — the pump motor is not receiving power or has failed.
- Foreign object visible inside the pump impeller housing that cannot be reached through the filter opening.
- Error persists after filter cleaning and correct hose routing — pump replacement required, typically from $150.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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