Repairing Guides

how to repair your washing machine

by Boyd Fisher Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • 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 your washing machine?

How to Decide Whether to Repair a Washing Machine or Replace it

  • Defects and Recalls. Appliance-makers usually cover washers with a one-year limited warranty that includes repairs necessitated by defects.
  • Natural Disasters and Insurance. ...
  • Household Budget and Convenience. ...
  • Energy Bills. ...

Why is my washing machine not working?

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

  • Unbalanced or Jammed Load. Clothes can jam in the washer between the drum and the basket, creating a walker. ...
  • Level the Washer. If your washer isn’t completely level, it won’t be able to spin properly. ...
  • Washer is Overloaded. ...
  • Reset the Washer. ...
  • Clogged or Kinked Drain Hose. ...

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...

What should I do with a broken washing machine?

A broken washing machine does not mean that it cannot be repaired. In many cases, a washer can easily be fixed by replacing the belt. Get several repair estimates in order to make sure you are not discarding the equipment before you truly need to. Broken washing machines cannot be set out with other household garbage for curbside collection.

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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 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...

Is repairing a washing machine worth it?

As a general rule, if it costs less than 50% of the price of a new washing machine to repair your old one, you should choose the repair option. But, you should also consider whether or not there is a warranty coverage on your washer and think about economic realities.

What is the most common problem with washing machine?

10 Most Common Washing Machine ProblemsIt Bounces Around. ... It's Noisy. ... Clothes Are Getting Ripped. ... Improper Or Slow Draining. ... My Washing Machine Won't Spin. ... There's No Water. ... The Door Won't Open. ... It's Smelly.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.

How many years should a washing machine last?

around 10 yearsWashing machines, on average, last around 10 years, according to Consumer Reports. If your washer is reaching the threshold, or it's been having some problems, here are some signs the end may be near.

What is the average repair cost for a washing machine?

The overall cost to repair a washing machine averages $150 to $400. The average homeowner pays $300 for replacing the transmission or the gaskets, both common fixes. The lowest cost to fix issues like a damaged coupling or lid switch is $85, including labor and parts.

Should you fix a 10 year old washing machine?

If you do only few loads of wash each week, your washer can last for several years beyond the average lifespan — especially if you've cleaned and maintained your washer well. In that case, you can reasonably expect your middle-aged washer to last another 8 to 10 years, and repairing the washer is a safe bet.

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

How To Fix A Washer That Won't SpinLighten the load inside the washer. ... Rebalance the load in the washing machine. ... Check or repair the washing machine drain hose. ... Check for blown fuses. ... Check the washing machine lid safety switch. ... Replace the drive belt in your washing machine. ... Replace the motor in your washing machine.

Why is my washing machine not spinning and draining?

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.

What can ruin a washing machine?

4 Items That Will Ruin Your Washing MachineCOINS. Prior to throwing your jeans in the wash, be sure to thoroughly check all the pockets and empty the change. ... ZIPPERS. ... DETERGENT. ... CLOTHING. ... MORE OF WHAT NOT TO PUT IN YOUR WASHER. ... BE MINDFUL OF TOSSING IN SWIMSUITS/BIKINIS. ... KEYS.

How do I know if my washing machine pump is broken?

When the drain pump is either blocked or faulty these are the top symptoms that will be reported:Water in washing machine won't drain.Washing machine stopped full of water.Washing machine won't spin.Washing machine won't drain.

What is wrong with a washing machine when it won't 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 the motor is broken on my washing machine?

0:384:48How to Diagnose Washing Machine Motor Problems - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the machine is filling and emptying as normal. But the drum isn't turning or if it's making someMoreIf the machine is filling and emptying as normal. But the drum isn't turning or if it's making some sort of spluttering noise or. If you can see sparking. Coming from underneath.

How can I test my washing machine?

0:441:42Here's how we test washing machines - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFive hole punch sheets we use a ruler to measure all of the attached strings that are twoMoreFive hole punch sheets we use a ruler to measure all of the attached strings that are two millimeters or long or after a cleaning cycle. Thanks.

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...

How to fix water on floor in washer?

But if you’re noticing some water appearing on the floor, it may be a simple fix. Try cleaning the door seal, tightening hose connections and cleaning the drain pump filter.

What to do if your washer spins but doesn't spin?

In this case, turn on a spin cycle or drain and spin cycle to get rid of the remaining water.

How high should a drain pipe be on a Maytag washer?

For most Maytag ® washers, the drainpipe should be installed at a maximum of 96" and a minimum of 39" from the bottom of the machine . Your washer will not be able to adequately pump water out of the washer if the drainpipe reaches too high. In this case, water may flow back into the washer. Consult your washer's installation instructions for model-specific installation requirements or watch this video on proper drain hose and drainpipe installation for Maytag ® washers.

Why do washers 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 has gone out, that your load is balanced and that the washer is level.

How to contact Maytag for repair?

If you need professional repair help, schedule service online or call 1-800-344-1274.

Why does my washer make a hum?

It’s normal to hear the pump or motor make a continuous humming sound while loads are washing, along with periodic gurgling or surging as water is removed during the spin or drain cycles . You may also hear the hum of the sensing spins after you have started the washer.

Why does my washer make a clicking noise?

Many washer lids make clicking noises while they’re locking in place at the beginning of a cycle. It’s also normal to hear metal items on clothing like buckles or zippers touch against the stainless steel basket. Always empty your pockets before putting clothes in the washer—it’s possible for coins or other items to fall between the basket and the tub, which may require a service call.

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 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.

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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 .

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.

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