Amana Washer Will Not Do Final Spin

Introduction

Is your Amana washing machine leaving clothes sopping wet at the end of a cycle? This often means the final spin cycle isn’t working correctly. A non-spinning washer can be a real headache. Clothes take forever to dry, you might have to wring them out by hand, and mold can start to grow in a damp washer drum! Addressing this quickly prevents further damage to your clothes and appliance. Lets troubleshoot this together.

Common Causes of Amana Washer Will Not Do Final Spin

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Amana washer might skip the final spin:

Overloading: Putting too many clothes in the washer strains the motor and prevents proper spinning.
Unbalanced Load: Clothes bunched on one side create an imbalance, which the washer detects, preventing the spin cycle.
Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch signals the washer it’s safe to spin. If it’s faulty, the washer won’t spin, even if the lid is closed.
Drainage Issues: If the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin. A clogged drain hose or pump can cause this.
Drive Belt Problems: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it’s loose or broken, the drum won’t spin.
Motor Coupler Failure: This part connects the motor to the transmission. If it breaks, the spinning action may stop.
Motor Issues: A failing motor may not have enough power to complete the spin cycle.
Control Board Malfunction: The control board manages all the washer’s functions. If it’s faulty, it can prevent the spin cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the problem:

Washer fills and agitates normally, but doesn’t spin at the end of the cycle.
Washer stops mid-cycle, leaving clothes soaking wet.
You hear a humming or grinding noise during the spin cycle, but the drum doesn’t turn.
The washer displays an error code related to draining or spinning.
The drum spins freely by hand when the washer is off.
Clothes are wetter than usual after a wash cycle.

How to Fix Amana Washer Will Not Do Final Spin Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washer from the power outlet before starting any troubleshooting.
Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes to see if the spin cycle starts. Don’t pack the drum too tightly.
Rebalance the Load: Redistribute the clothes evenly inside the drum. Make sure nothing is bunched up on one side.
Inspect the Lid Switch: The lid switch is usually located near the door hinge. Visually check if it looks damaged or broken. Sometimes you can manually depress it to see if the spin cycle starts (use caution!).
Check the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or clogged. Disconnect it from the drainpipe and check for obstructions.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front or rear of the washer). Remove the access panel and clean any lint or debris from the filter.
Check for Error Codes: Consult your washer’s user manual for a list of error codes and their meanings. Note the code and follow the recommended troubleshooting steps.
Listen for Unusual Noises: If you hear loud grinding or humming during the spin cycle, it could indicate a problem with the motor, pump, or bearings.
Manually Test the Drain Pump: After cleaning the filter, try running a short drain cycle to see if the pump is working.
Check the Drive Belt (If Visible): If your washer has an easily accessible drive belt (some models don’t), visually inspect it for cracks, fraying, or looseness.
Run a Calibration Cycle: Some Amana washers have a calibration or self-test cycle. Consult your user manual for instructions on how to run it.
Check the Air Dome (If Applicable): Some washers have an air dome connected to the pressure switch. Ensure the hose connected to the air dome is not clogged or pinched.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you consider replacing any parts, try these free fixes:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes. Plug it back in and try running a spin cycle. This can sometimes clear minor electrical glitches.
Deep Clean the Washer: Run an empty washer cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and residue that can affect performance.
Regular Maintenance: Wipe down the washer drum and door seal regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Leave the washer door slightly ajar after use to allow it to air out.
Inspect the Water Inlet Valves: Check if the water inlet valves (where the water hoses connect) are clogged with sediment. Clean them if necessary.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t spin, replacement of certain parts might be needed. Common culprits include the lid switch ($15-$40), drain pump ($30-$70), drive belt ($10-$30) or motor coupler ($10-$25). In rare cases the motor or control board will need replaced ($100 – $300). It’s recommended to get a professional diagnosis before replacing expensive components.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when working with water and electricity. Avoid standing in wet areas.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and grime.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Shop towel or rags
Bucket
Multimeter (optional, for testing electrical components)

FAQ

Q: My washer fills with water, but then just stops. What’s wrong?
A: This could indicate a problem with the water inlet valve or the pressure switch. Check if the water supply is turned on and if the inlet hoses are kinked.
Q: My washer makes a loud buzzing noise during the spin cycle. What could it be?
A: A loud buzzing noise often indicates a problem with the drain pump. Check the pump for obstructions and clean it thoroughly.
Q: How do I know if the lid switch is bad?
A: You can try manually depressing the lid switch while the washer is running. If the spin cycle starts, the lid switch is likely faulty.
Q: Where is the drain pump located on my Amana washer?
A: The drain pump is typically located at the bottom front or rear of the washer. You may need to remove an access panel to reach it. Consult your user manual for specific instructions.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting an Amana washer that won’t spin can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Start with the easy fixes like checking for overloading and unbalanced loads. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and are still having trouble, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance. Good luck!