8 Possible Causes And Solution
- Power supply The most common cause of a washing machine that won't spin is a power outage or a broken connection. ...
- Wrong loading Modern washing machines incorporate an imbalance sensor. ...
- Transport lock If your washing machine won't spin after a move or if it's a newer model, check the transport lock. ...
- Constipation ...
- Foreign body ...
- Defective drain pump ...
- Worn engine brushes ...
- Defective imbalance ...
Full Answer
What would make a washing machine not spin or drain?
Try These Easy Fixes
- Common Reasons a Washer Won’t Spin. In this post, we’ve outlined the most common reasons a washer won’t spin. ...
- Drive Belt. Your washing machine’s drive belt helps the motor power the spin of the drum by wrapping around the motor and a pulley wheel.
- Drive Motor. ...
- Motor Coupler. ...
- Lid Switch. ...
- Broken Pump. ...
- Repair Costs When a Washer Won’t Spin. ...
- Washer Won’t Spin? ...
How to fix a washing machine that Won't Spin?
Repair your machine's spin cycle with these quick tips–and learn when to call the pros.
- Redistribute an off-balanced load of laundry. ...
- Level an off-kilter washer. ...
- Check the power source. ...
- Stop using an extension cord. ...
- Inspect the spin switch. ...
- Stick to high efficiency detergent with a front-load washer. ...
- Undo any kink in the hose. ...
- Track down a blockage in the drainage system. ...
- Replace or readjust the drive belt. ...
- If still stumped, call in the pros. ...
Why is my washing machine not spinning or draining?
You can find out if the pump is the problem by:
- Unplug the washing machine. ...
- Identify the pump and see if it turns freely when you loosen the tension from the pump belt that is wrapped around it.
- If the pump belt is worn or broken, that is likely the extent of the problem. ...
- If the pump does not turn freely or will not turn at all, you will need to have the pump removed and replaced.
Why washer will not spin?
One of the most common causes of a failed spin cycle is an unbalanced laundry load. If your materials have clung to one side of the drum, this will cause the motion of the washer to be thrown off. This is especially common when you’re washing bulky items such as winter jackets or large blankets.
Why spin of washing machine is not working?
If the drum stops spinning mid-cycle, try stopping the machine, draining the water and rearranging the laundry. You might be using too much detergent or an inappropriate type for your appliance. In this case, your washing machine will stop the spinning cycle and try to absorb the excess foam in its drum.
How do I fix a washing machine that will not spin?
Redistribute an off-balanced load of laundry. ... Level an off-kilter washer. ... Check the power source. ... Stop using an extension cord. ... Inspect the spin switch. ... Stick to high efficiency detergent with a front-load washer. ... Undo any kink in the hose. ... Track down a blockage in the drainage system.More items...•
Why won't my washer drain or spin?
If your washer won't drain or spin, the water level control may be faulty. Open the machine's control panel and look for a plastic tube attached to the water level valve. If it's clogged, clear it out with vinegar. If the valve itself is corroded, it may need to be replaced.
Why are clothes still wet after spin cycle?
Typically, this means checking the drain hose, drain pump, and any filters or coin traps that could be blocked. Other causes of clothes still being wet after the spin cycle include an unbalanced washer, using the wrong detergent, or a worn or loose drive belt.
How do I know if my washing machine belt needs replacing?
Diagnosing A Bad Belt Use a couple of bricks or small paint cans to prop up the front edge of the washer. This will allow you to easily see the belt, as well as its motor assembly. If your belt displays any signs of fraying, cracking, or burning, plan to replace it at once.
Can a washer agitate but not spin?
If your washer won't agitate but spins, a broken agitator may be to blame. The agitator is the centerpiece in a top load washer that agitates and moves the clothes through the water during the wash cycle. The output shaft of the transmission is splined to the agitator to secure it in place.
Can you fix a washing machine yourself?
Instead of calling in an expensive appliance technician, you can repair your washing machine by yourself. Most of these repairs require simple tools and can be performed by homeowners who have only limited appliance repair skills.
How do I reset my Whirlpool washer that won't spin?
Rotate your dial until you have the following three lights illuminated: RINSE, WASH, and STOP. Then turn off your washer and unplug it for ten seconds. When you turn it back on it should be reset.
1. Drain Pump Clogging
One of the most common reasons why your washing machine stops spinning is when the water can’t drain properly due to a clogged drain pump. This can happen when something gets stuck in the outlet pipe, which in turn prevents the steady flow of water in and out of the machine.
2. Unbalanced Sink
When the load is too heavy for the machine, your washing machine will detect a risk. If the drum moves too much or in an unbalanced way, this puts stress on the machine and can cause it to become unbalanced and prevent your washing machine from turning.
3. Gear Motor Wear
The motor cleats on your washing machine are used to connect the drum to the motor. The brushes can wear out over time, which means the machine will fill with water and run normally, but the tub or drum itself won’t rotate and your clothes won’t be cleaned effectively.
4. Check Power Source
While it may seem like an unnecessary thought, try double-checking that the washer is plugged in. Because it could be that your washing machine is not damaged, but your power outlet is the problem.
5. Incorrect Cable Roll
The electrical conductors plugged into your home by PLN are heavy-duty cables that are different from roll cables. Many roll cords or extension cords are not actually able to conduct enough electricity to start the washing machine motor, what happens next is the washing machine is damaged because the mains voltage is not appropriate.
6. Check the Washing Machine Panel
On top-loading washing machines, the small bump on the bottom of the lid pushes the switch when you close it. This serves as a safety precaution when the washing machine door is closed.
Why won't my washing machine spin?
Problem: As a general rule, a washing machine doesn't spin normally unless the laundry load has been drained of water. Problems with draining usually stem from a drainage hose that’s become either kinked or clogged with small items like coins or buttons from your clothing. Fix: For the first issue, unkink the hose.
Why won't my washer spin?
Top loaders have a device called a lid switch that signals to the washer when the lid is not properly closed. If your lid switch stops doing its job , your washing machine doesn’t spin, as a safety precaution. Fix: On the underside of the lid, you’ll find a small protrusion that activates the switch when you close the lid.
Why won't my spin cycle stop?
Problem: Your spin cycle won’t function as well – or at all – if the wash load is unbalanced. Generally, this happens when you’re trying to clean one or two heavy items, such as a comforter, bath sheet, or washable pet bed, and something clumps into a big, sullen lump. Interestingly, an unbalanced load can also cause the opposite problem, an ineffective spin cycle that won’t stop.
Why won't my washer spin?
Another common reason a washer won’t spin is a faulty drive motor. Most washing machines have what is called a reversing motor. It moves one direction to spin and the reverse direction to agitate. Often, the motor will stop working in just one direction, meaning the machine might still agitate even if it won’t spin.
Why does my washing machine have a drive belt?
Your washing machine’s drive belt helps the motor power the spin of the drum by wrapping around the motor and a pulley wheel. If it slips off or breaks, the machine can still agitate during the wash cycle, but it won’t be able to spin.
What happens if a washer pump fails?
A failed pump will result in the water not being able to drain out of the tub.
How does a washer pump work?
The pump on your washer moves the water in the machine into the drain hose, which enables the tub to fill. Once the water reaches the loop or the bend in the drain hose due to the pump’s action, it moves out of the drain.
What to do if your washing machine drum turns easily?
If the drum turns easily, it might be the drive belt. In that case, you should: Unplug the washing machine from the outlet. Then, you can open up the access panel (refer to your washer’s manual if you’re unsure where to find the access panel on your model).
What is a coupler on a washing machine?
The motor coupler on a washing machine is made of plastic and rubber, two materials that can wear out over time. This part is mounted to the direct-drive transmission and motor shaft of the washing machine.
Where is the lid switch on a washing machine?
Unplug the washing machine and locate the lid switch where the lid meets the cabinet of the machine.
Problem: Overstuffed or Unbalanced Drum
Ultra-stuffed loads of laundry and extra-bulky loads (blankets, comforters, pet beds, pillows) result in damage to your washing machine over time. If your otherwise-functioning washing machine stops spinning mid-cycle, it’s very likely because the drum is overstuffed.
Problem: Too Much Detergent
Some washing machines—especially newer machines, such as HE (high efficiency) models—will stop their wash cycles if the machine’s sensors detect that there’s too much excess foam in the drum, which is the result of too much laundry detergent in the load.
Problem: Machine Is Unbalanced
If your top-loading washing machine makes quite a racket with every cycle by shaking back and forth or vibrating, there's a good chance that the machine itself is unbalanced. This can also cause the barrel to go off-kilter and lose its spinning ability.
Problem: Electrical Surge
Has your area experienced any severe weather lately? What about local power outages? In newer machines, internal technology drives much of the washing machine’s operation, which makes it that much more susceptible to go on the fritz because of an electrical issue.
Problem: Faulty Lid Switch or Door Lock
As a safety feature, many washing machines won’t start the wash cycle or spin until the door locks (front-loading washers) or the lid switch is secured (top-loading washers).
Problem: Clogged Drain Hose
If your washing machine doesn’t fully drain after the wash cycle, it won’t initiate the spin cycle. Check for excess water in the drum by opening the lid if possible. For front-loading washing machines, look closely to see if there’s still a water line visible in the drum.
Problem: Damaged Drive Belt
Like many other appliances and machines, washing machines have a motorized belt loop that keeps them running properly. There’s a quick test to check if your washer’s drive belt may be damaged or broken that doesn’t require opening up the hood, so to speak. When the washer’s empty, try spinning the internal drum with your hand.
Why won't my washer spin when the lid is open?
Defective lid switch or door lock – On most washers, the lid switch or door lock will prevent the tub from spinning if the lid or door are left open. However, if the switch or lock is defective, the tub may not spin even when the lid and door are closed.
How does a front-load washer spin and drain?
One thing that differentiates a front-load washer from a top-load washer is the presence of a “coin trap” attached to the drain pump . This feature is designed to catch coins, keys, or other debris that may have been inadvertently left in pants’ pockets (most of the time, it’s trapping lint from clothing). A trap with too much debris can prevent the drain pump from successfully draining the water from the tub, so you should clean out the trap periodically.
What happens if a washer is defective?
Defective motor control board – If the washer uses a drive motor, belt, and pulley to rotate the tub, a defective motor control board could prevent the tub from spinning. While the control board cannot be easily tested, you should inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.
Why won't my washer drain?
Defective lid switch or door lock – In the same way a defective lid switch or door lock can prevent the tub from spinning, these components can cause the washer not to drain by making the control board think the lid has been left open or door has not been properly locked. Test the part for electrical continuity using a multimeter. If the part tests negative for continuity, it will need to be replaced.
How does a top load washer pump work?
On some top-load washer models, the motor will drive the pump by spinning in the opposite direction than it did during the agitation cycle. Drive systems that assist in draining and spinning the tub can vary, even within top-load washer models. During the drain cycle, or immediately after, a brake releases and the motor spins ...
What happens if a top load washer coupler is broken?
Worn drive coupler or broken belt – A top-load washer drive coupler connects the motor to the washer transmission. The coupler can wear out over time or fail, especially if the tub is consistently overloaded. Similarly, a drive belt can wear out, break, or slip on the pulleys. In both cases, the tub won’t spin until the worn coupler ...
What causes a drain pump to fail?
Malfunctioning drain pump – A small object or article of clothing may have created an obstruction in the drain pump, or a damaged impeller could cause the pump to fail mechanically. If the pump doesn’t appear to be damaged and is free of obstructions, it’s possible the pump has failed electrically.
Why won't my washing machine spin?
The hard fact is that the moment the lid switch is faulty, your washing machine won’t spin. Especially if you’re using a top-loading machine which generally has a lid switch, try to find out the signals it’s bringing. The switch indicates signals to the washer when the lid is not properly closed.
What is the problem if the washing machine won't spin?
What is the problem if the washing machine won’t spin? It is impossible for your washer’s spin cycle to function well- if at all, it will function- if the wash load is much and does not maintain balance.
What does the switch on a washer do?
The switch indicates signals to the washer when the lid is not properly closed.
Why is my LG washer not spinning?
Again, lack of or inadequate drainage is a grave reason your LG washer is not spinning fast or fails to spin. If your laundry load has been drained of water, the result is that your washer won’t spin. You may notice as well that your clothes wet after washing. It’s obvious that the washing machine didn’t spin.
Why is my washing machine wet?
It’s obvious that the washing machine didn’t spin. The problem often arises when the drainage hose is clogged or kinked with small particles such as stone, buttons, or coins. So, before raising alarm after trying the first three rules, never get frustrated.
What happens when more clothes get into the washing machine?
The more clothing that gets into the washing machine, the less the spinning power of the machine.
Why does my top loader make a scrapping noise?
But repeated friction of the clutch pads against the housing can cause the pad to wear , thus creating a scrapping sound. A damaged clutch may also cause a slower spin speed.
1. Clean The Drain Pump Filter (Front Loader Washing Machines Only)
Do the following to clean the drain pump filter in your front loader washing machine…
2. Defective Drain Pump Assembly
Here are the steps you’ll need to take to replace a faulty drain pump assembly in your washing machine…
Why won't my washer spin?
A motor that doesn’t run at all, despite good connections to the power source and breaker, could prevent a washer from spinning. Some motors contain carbon brushes that wear out over time, and those can be replaced inexpensively. However, the problem could be more extensive than a worn carbon brush, and it’s impossible to know without removing the motor and testing it. Even with the washer unplugged, induction-type motors that contain capacitors can give you quite an electric shock, so motor testing and repairs are best left to the pros.
Why is my washing machine spinning?
An unbalanced load of laundry is one of the most common causes of an inadequate spin cycle. Sometimes clothing can settle on one side of the drum, throwing off the motion of the washing machine. (This happens most often when washing large and heavy items like comforters or heavy coats.) Moreover, some newer machines won’t reach high speeds with off-balanced loads, which leaves clothes dripping wet. If you suspect a distribution problem, try rearranging your clumped-up wet laundry and running the spin cycle again.
How to check if a washer coupler is broken?
To determine whether the motor coupler (a small rubber and plastic connector piece located between the washer’s motor and its transmission) has broken, conduct this simple test: Set the dial on your washer to a wash cycle and turn it on, allowing the drum to fill with water. When the water reaches the fill level, agitation should begin. If you hear the motor kick on but the center agitator does not move, your machine needs a new coupler. While a replacement is in the ballpark of a mere $20, this fix is only DIY-friendly for those who are skilled in small motor repair.
Why does my washer agitate?
A broken drive belt, or one that has slipped off the pulley wheel, can cause the washer to agitate during the wash cycle and yet—despite the noise of the motor running—the drum remain still during the spin cycle. To determine if this is the case, remove the back of the washer and visually check to see if the belt is still on the pulley. If not, you may need to replace the drive belt. Be sure to purchase one that’s made specifically for your brand and model of washer.
What does a small protrusion on the underside of the washer do?
In a top-loading washer, a small protrusion on the underside of the lid depresses a switch when you close the lid, serving as a safety precaution to detect when the lid is closed. If the protrusion has bent out of shape, it may not trigger the switch as intended.
Why does my washer leak?
Some washers feature electro-mechanical transmission shifters or clutches that, when worn out, can result in washing machine leaks. This issue also requires attention from a repairman.
How to test a spin cycle on a washer?
Test the theory by opening the lid, selecting the spin cycle on your washer, and then manually depressing the switch with a finger. If the machine starts spinning normally, simply re-bend the protrusion so it triggers the spin switch properly.
1. Level Up the Washer
You need to know that the washer tub is usually suspended inside the drum in order for it to spin freely. Why is this a problem though?
2. Balance the Load
Washing a single or just 2 pieces of laundry causes an imbalance inside the drum which stresses the drum support system as well as other parts. This causes the washer to either spin slowly or not spin at all.
3. Reset the Motor
This will not work on all washing machines but it will do on others ( top-loading washers with a direct-drive system, which does not need a transmission system to spin). Resetting a washer motor will not even take you a minute to complete.
4. Check the Lid Switch
If your top-loading washer is not spinning, you could be dealing with a faulty lid switch. A washing machine with a broken or stuck lid switch will not spin or even drain.
6. Replace Worn Out Motor Carbon Brushes
If your washer is not spinning but you can hear the motor kick in amid a cranking noise then the motor carbon brushes are worn out and will need to be replaced. To do this, you will need to first remove the washer’s back panel to access and remove the motor.
7. Realign or Replace the Drive Belt
A washing machine drive belt is responsible for transferring motion from the motor to the drum. The belt is hooked on the motor as well as drum pulley.
8. Inspect the Motor Coupler
A motor coupler is a small plastic and rubber piece that connects the motor and the washer transmission. If it is broken, you will hear an unusual noise when you start the washer.