When your washing machine suddenly decides not to spin, it can throw a wrench into your laundry routine, leaving you with sopping wet laundry, or laundry that doesn’t get clean. This guide aims to help you diagnose and address this issue. We will be discussing how to fix a washer that won’t spin, examining the possible reasons why this happens, and providing you with solutions to get your appliance spinning again.
Unraveling the Mystery: How to Fix a Washer That Won’t Spin
Understanding the reasons behind the problem is the first step to a solution. Let’s delve into some of the common issues that could cause your washer to stop spinning and then learn how to fix a washer that won’t spin.
Drain Pump Filter Blockage
Blockages in the filter of your drain pump can prevent your washer from draining water effectively, disrupting the spin cycle. Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue. Make sure to check and clean the washer’s drain pump filter regularly. A clean filter not only assists effective drainage but also ensures a smoother spin cycle. While you’re cleaning your filter, it may be a good time to clean your entire washing machine!
Unstable Washing Machine
If your washing machine isn’t sitting evenly on the floor, it could disrupt the spin cycle’s proper functioning, leading to excessive vibrations and noise. Use a carpenter’s level to check if your washer is balanced. If it’s not, adjust the leveling legs by loosening the lock nuts on each leg and raising or lowering it until all four are resting evenly on the floor.
Control Lock Engaged
How do you fix a washer that won’t go into spin cycle? The control lock is a safety feature on your washer’s control panel that prevents changes from being made to a wash cycle once it starts, or can even prevent it from starting. If this feature is accidentally activated, your washer might not spin. To fix the issue:
- Deactivating the control lock is usually as easy as pressing and holding the control lock button for three seconds
- If the control lock keeps turning on by itself or won’t deactivate, check the manual for the method for your washer model.
- If there’s still an issue there could be a more serious issue with the control panel, and professional attention may be required.
Load Imbalance
An uneven or imbalanced load can lead to your washer spinning unevenly or even stopping. To fix the issue:
- Try redistributing the clothes within the drum to balance the weight.
- Adding a few towels to even out a heavy single-item load can improve the washer’s balance and potentially resolve the spinning issue.
- Avoid overloading the washer as this can also cause problems with the spin cycle.
Problem With the Drain Hose
If your washing machine won’t spin or drain, the issue may not be with the washing machine itself, but rather with the drain hose. A drain hose that is clogged, frozen, bent, or twisted can obstruct the flow of water, preventing your washer from draining and disrupting the spin cycle. It can also result in a leaky washer.
Start by inspecting the drain hose. Make sure it isn’t kinked or twisted in a way that blocks water flow. Then, inspect the drain pump for potential blockages; even a small piece of sediment can cause significant obstruction.
Washer Door Lock Issues
What causes a washing machine drum not to spin? If the door of your washer isn’t closing fully, the lock won’t activate, and the machine won’t start. Listen for a “click” when closing the washer door. If you don’t hear this sound, check the lock for visible damage or test it with a multimeter. Damaged components or a lack of continuity during testing indicate a need for replacement.
Damaged Drive Belt
The drive belt, which powers the drum spin, can become damaged or loosened, causing erratic or no spinning. If you find your washing machine not spinning but making noise, this could be the problem.
Check the drive belt at the back of your machine. If it appears loose, stretched out, or has visible damage like cracks or tears, it’s time for a replacement. Follow your washer manual’s instructions for replacing the belt, or call a professional.
Malfunctioning Lid Switch Assembly
A faulty lid switch assembly can sometimes cause spin issues even when the door is properly closed. Testing with a multimeter for continuity may be necessary. If the switch is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
Defective Motor Coupling
The motor coupling links the washer’s motor and transmission. Over time, this part can wear out or break, particularly if the machine is consistently overloaded. Regular inspection of the motor coupling for wear or damage is essential. If it is found to be defective, it will need to be replaced.
While this guide should help you understand how to fix a washer that won’t spin, some issues may require professional assistance. Atomic Tech Appliance can tackle any washing machine repair you may need. With our experienced technicians on call, you can rest assured your washer will be up and spinning again in no time.
