how to repair washing machine

• Ensure the Machine Is Balanced. Your machine may need to be rebalanced. ...
• Tighten Any Connection Straps. With stacking washer-dryer combinations, the connection straps may have loosened, causing the unit to shake violently.
• Ensure the Load is Balanced. The classic and most easily fixable cause of a shaking clothes washer is an imbalanced load. ...
• Consider an Anti-Vibration Pad. Consider purchasing an anti-vibration pad. Independent testing has shown that pads that are 3 inches thick do an excellent job of deadening the shaking and vibration. ...

Full Answer

Should you repair or replace a broken washing machine?

Should You Repair or Replace a Broken Washing Machine?

1. What’s the Problem? The first step in deciding whether to repair or replace your appliance is to figure out exactly where the problem lies. ...
2. How Much Will the Repair Cost? Once you’ve asked an expert questions over the phone or had a technician come to your home to take a look at your ...
3. How Much Longer is the Appliance Expected to Live?

What should I do with a broken washing machine?

• Make sure that your washing machine is level. Over time, your washer might end up leaning one way or another. ...
• Do lighter loads and try to reduce the use of your washer whenever possible. ...
• Avoid washing weighted blankets and other unusually heavy items whenever possible. ...
• If you have to move your washing machine, don’t let it fall down. ...

How to clean your washing machine at home?

Steps:

1. Be sure the washing machine is empty. If your washer has removable detergent or fabric softener trays, remove those and clean them with hot water and a small brush. ...
2. Put a washing machine cleaning tab or powder in the empty washer. ...
3. If your washer has a dedicated cleaning cycle, you can use that. ...

More items...

How do you fix a washing machine?

Plug In the Washer and Start a Normal Cycle

• Plug the washing machine back in and start a normal cycle.
• As it fills, watch for any signs of a leak. If you see water leaking from the washing machine, press the cancel button. ...
• If it passes the leak test, start a spin cycle to test the drain.

What are common problems with washing machine?

Common Washing Machine Problems and SolutionsVibrating Washer.Leaky Washer.Noisy Washer.Washer Won't Run.Washer Won't Drain.Detergent Won't Dispense.Smelly Washer.

Can I fix my own washing machine?

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 you diagnose a washing machine problem?

Washer Troubleshooting GuideCheck that the washer is plugged in securely.Check the circuit breaker or fuse box.Test the outlet for current.Check that the water supply valves are turned on.Inspect the filter screens.Test for overheating.Test the water level switch.Test the timer control.More items...

What causes a washing machine to stop working?

There are a few possible reasons for this: - The locking mechanism could have jammed (maybe some clothes have gotten in the way). - There could be a glitch in the washer's computer. - The washing machine may not be draining properly, leaving the washer door locked and the drum filled with water.

What is the lifespan of a washing machine?

10 to 13 yearsThe average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance.

What is the problem if the washing machine wont spin?

Normally, your washing machine won't go into a spin cycle until it's been drained. The drainage hose may become clogged with debris from your clothing, or it could be kinked. If the hose is kinked or crushed, it will likely need to be replaced.

How do I know if my washing machine needs replacing?

6 signs it's time to replace your washing machineIt's not kind to your clothes... or the environment. ... The drum won't spin at the end of the cycle. ... The machine still works but the water hasn't drained. ... It's more noisy than it should be. ... It's no longer big enough for your family. ... It's much older than your latest smartphone.

How do you fix a washer that won't start?

0:121:52Top-Load Washer Won't Start — Washing Machine TroubleshootingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYour top load washer won't start here are the top five most probable causes. You should firstMoreYour top load washer won't start here are the top five most probable causes. You should first determine if the electrical outlet the appliance is plugged into is getting power if not check to see if

THE WASHING MACHINE WON’T DRAIN

If your washing machine won’t drain or your loads are coming out too wet, you may have a kink or clog in the drain hose, a drain pipe that’s too lo...

MY WASHING MACHINE WON’T SPIN

A washer needs to spin correctly in order to fully rinse clothes and drain water from the tub. Before scheduling a service call, check if the power...

WASHING MACHINE IS LEAKING

Water is meant to stay in the washer. But if you’re noticing some water appearing on the floor, it may be a simple fix. Try cleaning the door seal,...

MY WASHER IS NOISIER THAN EXPECTED

If you’ve just brought home a new washer, it’s possible that it makes some noises you aren’t familiar with. Many of these are normal and shouldn’t...

MY WASHER HAS ODORS

Washer odors are easily fixable and usually the result of a missed cleaning, a load left too long or too much detergent and fabric softener use. Tr...

What is the problem with washing machines?

One common problem associated with washing machines is that the machine's basin or tub fills with water but the central agitator does not move. Agitation is the back and forth motion that cleans the clothing. This action is performed by the central plastic cone-shaped device called the agitator.

Why does my washer move?

Check the power cord behind the washer to make sure that it is plugged in. Due to washers' vigorous movements, especially when the load is imbalanced, machines may move. When a machine moves, it may inadvertently unplug the power cord.

Why does my washing machine shake when it is running?

This may be pronounced if you have a high-efficiency machine, which has a faster spin cycle than top-loading machines. Walking machines are very dangerous because they can become detached from the water lines or the drainage line, or they might strain at the power cord and cause an electrical fire.

What does it mean when a washer is spinning at a high rate of speed?

Spinning at a high rate of speed is the action that squeezes water out of the clothing so that it can be dried in the dryer. Try to redistribute the clothing within the washing machine tub. When the washer is out of balance, it will automatically stop until you can get the clothing back in balance.

Why does my washing machine make a squeaky sound?

If the washing machine is making a squeaking sound, the tub bearings may need lubrication. The washing machine motor drive belt or pulley may be worn out. This is a rather involved repair, where you need to take apart a significant section of the machine to get to the motor.

How to test a top loader?

If you have a top loader, test the lid by setting the machine to "ON" and then pushing into the hole with the blunt end of a pen. If working correctly, the water should begin filling even though the lid is open.

What part of the door should seat into the bottom of the machine?

Close the lid and watch as the part on the door connects with the part on the machine. The top part should seat into the bottom part.

How long does it take to repair a Maytag washer?

Repairs can take as little as an hour, but set aside a full morning to diagnose the trouble, get parts and complete the repair. To find parts, check the yellow pages under “Appliance Parts” or search online for “appliance parts” for Maytag washer troubleshooting or a washer repairman.

How to fix a Maytag washer that won't spin?

when your washer won’t spin, remove the lid switch on a Maytag-type washer by prying up the locking tab and sliding the switch forward as you try to figure out how to fix a washer that won’t spin. To install the new switch, just set it in the slot and pull it backward.

How to test a broken lid switch?

To test the switch, you’ll need a continuity tester (about $8) or a multimeter (about $15) . If you don’t know how to use a multimeter, type “multimeter” in the search box above. Remove the wires connected to the switch and touch the tester’s probes to the switch’s connectors. As you open and close the lid, readings should alternate between continuity and no continuity. If not, replace the switch ($33).

How to remove snap retainers from motor?

Pop the snap retainers with a screwdriver and pull the pump off the motor shaft. Then disconnect the electrical connectors from the motor.

What causes a Whirlpool washer to break?

If you own a Whirlpool direct-drive washer (the water hoses attach to the left side when viewed from the back), you’ve probably got a broken coupler—a common failure caused by overloading the machine. It’s an easy and inexpensive fix, about $22.

Why does my washer break down?

Tip: Make sure your washer has power! Unplugged cords and tripped breakers are common causes of appliance “breakdowns.”

How to change a water valve on a hot water tank?

Remove the water valve bracket and mount the new valve. Transfer the electrical connectors to the Hot/Cold portions of the new valve. Then transfer the fill hose by compressing the spring clamp.

Why is my washing machine leaking on the floor?

If your washing machine is leaking on the floor, you'll definitely want to find the problem fast. If it only leaks during the spin cycle, it's likely from the drain hose. Check for loose hose connections, the condition of the hose (cracks or damage), a clog or obstruction, and the connection to the washer.

How to check if a washer is alternating or no continuity?

Use a multimeter to test alternating continuity and no continuity by touching the probes to the switch's connectors. If you don't see this reading, replace the switch altogether. A worn or broken belt can prevent the washer from spinning or agitating, so you’ll need to replace any damaged belts with new ones.

What does it mean when your washer makes a clicking noise?

A clicking noise, on the other hand, could indicate something lodged in the washer drain. Sometimes coins or other objects left in a pocket will come loose and get stuck there. Thus, be sure to check the drain and remove anything that doesn't belong.

Why is my pump jammed?

If you're hearing a buzzing or humming noise , you'll want to check your pump. Once again, loose objects can make their way to the pump and cause it to jam. Serious damage to the pump may require a pump replacement.

Why won't my washer turn on?

Washer Won't Turn On. While this may seem like common sense, if your washer doesn't respond when you turn it on, make sure the power source is connected. A cord may have accidentally been unplugged or the circuit breaker may have been tripped on. If power is getting to the machine, your motor may have overheated.

Why does my sandpaper machine start right up?

If power is getting to the machine, your motor may have overheated. This is a safety feature and once it has cooled down, it will start right up again. If this happens frequently, you may need a professional assessment to find out the cause. Check the lid switch to be sure it is positioned properly and seating right.

Why is my front load washer leaking?

If you've got a front-load washer, the door seal may be leaking. It's a common area for dirt build-up, and water can seep out. You should clean the seal carefully to eliminate this problem.

How to check if your washer is getting power?

Power. The first thing to check is if your washing machine is getting power. Using a multimeter check the outlet voltage. If there isn't electricity flowing into your washer you'll need to check your household electrical panel to see if any circuit breakers may have been tripped.

Why does my washing machine stop working?

Washing machines are designed to stop working when the lid is open. The lid switch is a small plastic piece located under the lid. In order for the switch to activate, the lid must be shut. Check to see if the switch is in good repair and properly positioned.

Why isn't my washer draining?

Many times a clogged drain hose is the reason your washer isn't draining properly. Remove the hose and visually inspect it for clogs. A garden hose can be used to flush any stubborn blockages from the hose.

How to clean an automatic detergent dispenser?

The dispenser needs to be cleaned - Clean the dispenser monthly with a cup of warm distilled white vinegar. Pour the vinegar into the dispenser and run the washer thru a regular cycle.

Why does my washer shut down?

If the washer's motor overheated the washer will shut down to allow it to cool before you can start it again. If this happens once or twice it may not be a problem, but if your motor frequently overheats it's critical to find out what is actually causing this to happen.

Why is my washing machine unbalanced?

A washing machine will become unbalanced if there are too many clothes being washed in the same load. An overloaded machine will become unbalanced and not properly spin. This can also occur if the clothes are not evenly distributed within the basket.

What happens if you put pens in the washer?

If items such as socks, pens and coins get wedged between the basket and the tub, or become lodged in the pump, the washer's ability to drain properly will be greatly reduced and even can come to a full stop. You'll need to open the cabinet to gain access so that you can search for any obstructions.

What to do if washer won't open?

If your washer has a door or a lid that won’t open, check for broken parts like the lid hinge or pin.

Why won't my washer stop filling with water?

If your washer won’t stop filling with water, then troubleshoot the common reasons like the water inlet valve, water level pressure switch and the air dome tube .

Most Common Problems

Our washing machine troubleshooting guide is so easy to use, you'll wonder why you haven't fixed all your other appliances with Repair Clinic's help. Maybe this isn't your first rodeo. In that case, your clothes are probably a mess. But we'll get this sorted out. Start by entering a model number in the search field.

The Right Parts for the Job

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