Maytag Not Spinning Properly

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t spin properly is a frustrating problem. It leaves your clothes soaking wet, extending drying time and potentially leading to mold or mildew. This issue often arises after a large or unbalanced load, or simply due to wear and tear. Addressing this quickly is important to prevent further damage to your machine and avoid the inconvenience of hand-wringing your laundry!

Common Causes of Maytag Not Spinning Properly

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

Overloaded Washer: Too many clothes can prevent the drum from spinning freely.
Unbalanced Load: Clothes bunched on one side can throw off the spin cycle.
Lid Switch Failure: The washer won’t spin if the lid switch isn’t engaged. This switch tells the machine the lid is closed.
Faulty Motor Coupling: This part connects the motor to the transmission. If broken, the motor won’t transfer power to the spin cycle.
Worn Drive Belt: A loose or broken drive belt (if your model has one) can prevent the drum from rotating.
Drainage Issues: If the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin.
Clogged Drain Pump: Debris can block the drain pump, preventing proper drainage.
Defective Motor: While less common, a failing motor can cause spinning problems.
Control Board Issues: A malfunctioning control board can disrupt the spin cycle.
Blocked Drain Hose: Kinks or obstructions in the drain hose prevent water from properly exiting, triggering safety mechanisms that stop the spin cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the issue:

Washer fills with water, but the drum doesn’t spin during the wash or spin cycle.
Washer makes a humming or grinding noise during the spin cycle, but the drum doesn’t move.
Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
Washer stops mid-cycle and displays an error code.
Washer spins very slowly or erratically.
You smell burning rubber during the wash cycle.

How to Fix Maytag Not Spinning Properly Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Maytag washer:

Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Disconnect the power cord from the outlet.
Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the washer is packed too tightly.
Rearrange the Load: Distribute clothes evenly around the drum to balance the load.
Inspect the Lid Switch: Locate the lid switch (usually near the lid hinge). Press it down manually. If the washer starts, the switch is likely faulty. Note: only test with the machine unplugged and disconnected from any water source to avoid potential shocks.
Check the Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked, clogged, or bent sharply. Straighten it out or remove any obstructions.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually behind an access panel at the bottom front of the washer). Remove the filter and clean out any lint, debris, or small objects. Make sure to have a towel ready to catch any water.
Check the Drive Belt (If Applicable): On some older models, you may need to remove the cabinet to access the drive belt. Check if it’s loose, cracked, or broken.
Check for Obstructions in the Tub: Occasionally, small items (socks, coins) can get lodged between the inner tub and outer tub, preventing free spinning. You may need to carefully inspect and remove these.
Run a Calibration Cycle (If Available): Some Maytag models have a calibration cycle. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to run it.
Check the Motor Coupler: If you are comfortable taking the machine apart, you can check the motor coupler that connects the motor to the transmission. This is a common failure point.
Check the Motor: A failing motor may require professional evaluation and is often accompanied by a burning smell.
Restart the Washer: Plug the washer back in and try running a spin cycle only.
Check Error Codes: Consult your owner’s manual for the meaning of any error codes displayed on the washer.
Look for Foreign Objects: Inspect the inner tub and outer tub for trapped objects hindering movement.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board.
Clean the Washer: Run an empty wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and debris.
Recalibrate: Look for a calibration setting on the machine to reset sensor settings.
Regular Inspection: Check hoses, the drain pump filter, and the tub regularly to prevent clogs and other issues.
Maintain Proper Loading: Avoid overloading the washer and distribute clothes evenly.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Maytag washer still isn’t spinning properly, you might need to replace a part. Common parts that fail include the lid switch ($15-$30), the motor coupling ($10-$20), or the drive belt ($10-$25). A new motor can be expensive ($100 – $300). A severely damaged or aged machine may be near end of life and replacement is necessary. If you’re not comfortable replacing parts yourself, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
Be careful when working with water and electricity.
Avoid overloading the washer, as this can damage the motor and other components.
If you’re not comfortable performing a repair, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Be aware that water may come out when removing the drain pump filter, so prepare with a towel.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Wrench
Towel
Bucket
Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Why is my Maytag washer not spinning but still making noise?: This could indicate a problem with the motor coupling, drive belt, or motor itself. Further inspection is needed.
How do I know if my lid switch is broken?: If the washer doesn’t start spinning when the lid is closed, the lid switch may be faulty. You can test it with a multimeter, or simply observe whether manually pressing the switch triggers the spin cycle (while unplugged!).
Can a clogged drain pump cause the washer not to spin?: Yes, if the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin.
What does it mean when the washer is displaying an error code?: Error codes provide clues about the problem. Consult your owner’s manual for a list of error codes and their meanings.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Maytag washing machine that isn’t spinning properly can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often diagnose and fix the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted these troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Don’t give up hope! Often, a simple fix can get your washer spinning smoothly again, saving you the cost of a new machine.