Amana Washer Not Doing Final Spin

Introduction

A washer that refuses to spin at the end of its cycle is a common and frustrating problem. When your Amana washer isn’t performing the final spin, your clothes remain soaking wet, leading to longer drying times and potential mold or mildew issues. This problem is often noticed after a regular wash cycle completes, leaving you with a tub full of dripping laundry. Addressing this promptly will save you time, energy, and potential damage to your clothing.

Common Causes of Amana Washer Not Doing Final Spin

Here are some common reasons why your Amana washer might not be spinning:

Overloading: Too many clothes can prevent the washer from spinning effectively.
Unbalanced Load: An uneven distribution of clothes can trigger a safety mechanism that stops the spin cycle.
Lid Switch Failure: The lid switch, which tells the washer the lid is closed, might be broken.
Faulty Motor Coupling: The motor coupling connects the motor to the transmission and can wear out.
Worn Drive Belt: The drive belt transfers power from the motor; if it’s loose or broken, the drum won’t spin.
Drainage Issues: If the washer can’t drain water properly, it won’t spin.
Clogged Drain Pump: A blockage in the drain pump can prevent proper drainage.
Faulty Motor: While less common, the motor itself might be failing.
Control Board Problems: The control board manages all the washer’s functions, and a malfunction can affect the spin cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to confirm the issue:

Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
The washer stops before the final spin cycle.
You hear unusual noises during the spin cycle attempt.
The washer displays an error code related to spinning or draining.
The washer tub is still full of water after the wash cycle completes.

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

Unplug the Washer: For safety, disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any troubleshooting.
Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the washer is overloaded. As a general rule, leave about one hand’s width of space at the top of the washer tub.
Rearrange the Load: Manually redistribute clothes in the drum to balance the load. Make sure items aren’t clumped on one side.
Check the Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked or blocked. Straighten any bends and remove any visible obstructions.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front or back of the washer behind an access panel). Clean the filter to remove any lint, debris, or small objects. Remember to have a pan ready to catch any water.
Inspect the Lid Switch: Open and close the washer lid. Listen for a clicking sound, which indicates the switch is working. If you don’t hear a click, the switch may be faulty. (Do not bypass the switch).
Run a Drain and Spin Cycle: Select the “Drain and Spin” cycle to see if the washer drains the water and attempts to spin. If it does, this might indicate an intermittent issue or a problem with a specific wash cycle setting.
Check the Washer’s Level: Ensure the washer is level on the floor. Use a level tool to check. Adjust the leveling legs at the bottom of the washer as needed.
Look for Error Codes: Check the washer’s display for any error codes. Consult your Amana washer’s manual to understand the code and the suggested troubleshooting steps.
Check the Water Inlet Valves: Make sure the hot and cold water inlet valves are fully open. Restricted water flow can sometimes affect the spin cycle.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve the “no spin” issue without buying replacement parts:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Clean the Washer: Run an empty wash cycle with a washer cleaner to remove buildup and residue that might be affecting performance.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is properly connected to the drainpipe and that there isn’t an air gap causing siphoning issues.
Check the Water Pressure: Low water pressure to the washer can prevent proper filling and affect the spin cycle.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the above steps don’t work, a component might need replacement. Here are some common failing parts:

Lid Switch: $20 – $50
Drain Pump: $50 – $100
Drive Belt: $15 – $30
Motor Coupling: $20 – $40

If the motor or control board is faulty, replacement costs can be higher (>$200) and it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire washer.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
Avoid touching any electrical components with wet hands.
Be cautious when working with water to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable with electrical or mechanical repairs, call a qualified appliance technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Multimeter (for testing electrical components – if you’re comfortable using one)
Level
Small bucket or pan
Towels

FAQ

Q: Why is my washer making a loud noise during the spin cycle? A: This could indicate a worn-out drive belt, a failing motor coupling, or an unbalanced load.
Q: How do I know if my lid switch is broken? A: If the washer doesn’t start or spin when the lid is closed, and you don’t hear a clicking sound when you close the lid, the lid switch might be faulty.
Q: Can I run the washer without a drain pump filter? A: No, the drain pump filter protects the pump from debris. Running the washer without it can damage the pump.
Q: My washer drains, but it still won’t spin. What could be the problem? A: This could indicate a problem with the lid switch, the motor coupling, or the motor itself.

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 simple solutions like checking for overloading and cleaning the drain pump. If you’re still having trouble after trying these steps, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance. Attempting to fix it yourself first can save you money. Good luck!