Samsung Washer Repeats Spin Cycle

Introduction

A washing machine that repeatedly spins can be frustrating. Instead of finishing the cycle, your Samsung washer might keep spinning, sometimes with clothes soaking wet. This wastes time, energy, and can even damage your clothes if not addressed. It’s important to fix this promptly to avoid further inconvenience and potential appliance damage. The problem usually occurs at the end of the wash cycle when the washer is trying to remove excess water from the clothes.

Common Causes of Samsung Washer Repeats Spin Cycle

Here are some common reasons why your Samsung washer might be stuck in a repeating spin cycle:

Unbalanced Load: Clothes bunched up on one side cause imbalance.
Obstruction in Drain Hose: A blocked hose prevents water from draining properly.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Debris like lint and coins can block the pump.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be failing to remove water.
Pressure Switch Issues: This sensor determines the water level; if faulty, it can cause spin problems.
Lid Switch Malfunction: The washer may think the lid is open, interrupting the cycle. (Top-load washers)
Control Board Problems: The main control board could have a glitch or be damaged.
Too Much Detergent: Excessive suds can interfere with the spin cycle.
Overloading the Washer: Exceeding the recommended load capacity can strain the machine.
Air lock in the drain hose: Prevents proper drainage.

Symptoms Checklist

Look for these symptoms to help pinpoint the problem:

Washer spins repeatedly without stopping.
Clothes remain wet after the cycle.
Error codes displayed on the control panel.
Unusual noises during the spin cycle.
Washer shakes or vibrates excessively.
Water remains in the drum after the spin cycle.
Cycle takes significantly longer than usual.

How to Fix Samsung Washer Repeats Spin Cycle Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

Redistribute the Load: Stop the washer, open the lid, and manually redistribute the clothes to balance the load.
Check the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or blocked. Straighten it if necessary.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump filter (usually at the bottom front of the washer). Remove it and clean out any lint, coins, or debris. (Consult your washer’s manual for exact location and instructions.)
Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After cleaning the filter, run a rinse and spin cycle to see if the issue is resolved.
Check the Drain Pump: If the filter is clean but the problem persists, the drain pump may be faulty. Listen for the pump motor while its trying to drain, if there is a humming sound but no water being drained, that means that is likely the problem.
Inspect the Pressure Switch Hose: Look for the hose connecting to the pressure switch. Make sure it’s not loose, cracked, or blocked. The pressure switch is often found near the top of the washer.
Check the Lid Switch: (Top-load washers only) Ensure the lid switch is engaging properly when the lid is closed. You might need to gently clean or adjust it.
Reduce Detergent Usage: Using too much detergent, especially non-HE (High Efficiency) detergent in an HE machine, can cause excessive suds. Try using less detergent.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many Samsung washers have a self-cleaning cycle. Run this cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and residue.
Reduce Load Size: Avoid overloading the washer. Wash smaller loads to prevent imbalance and strain on the machine.
Check for Air Lock in Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose has proper airflow and isn’t creating a siphon effect. A small vent can be placed near the drain connection to resolve this.
Unplug and Reset: Disconnect the washer from power for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Check Error Codes: If the washer displays an error code, consult your user manual to understand its meaning and find specific troubleshooting steps.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
Clean the Washer: Run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner.
Recalibrate the Washer: Some Samsung washers have a recalibration mode. Refer to your user manual for instructions.
Inspect Hoses: Visually check all hoses for kinks, clogs, or damage.
Practice Proper Maintenance: Wipe down the washer after each use, and regularly clean the dispenser.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still repeats the spin cycle, a part replacement might be needed. Commonly failing parts include the drain pump (estimated cost $50-$150), the pressure switch ($30-$80), or the control board ($100-$300). Consider contacting a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair. Always get an estimate before proceeding with any repairs.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Avoid working with water and electricity simultaneously.
Be careful when handling tools to avoid injury.
If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Keep the area around the washer dry to prevent slipping.

Tools You May Need

Here are some tools that might be helpful:

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Gloves
Washing machine cleaner

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer spinning so fast? A: An unbalanced load is often the cause. Try redistributing the clothes.
Q: What does the “UE” error code mean? A: “UE” typically indicates an unbalanced load.
Q: How do I clean the drain pump filter? A: Refer to your washer’s user manual for specific instructions. The filter is often located behind an access panel at the bottom front of the machine.
Q: My washer won’t drain at all. What should I do? A: Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs and clean the drain pump filter. The drain pump itself may be faulty.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Samsung washer that repeats the spin cycle can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Start with the simple solutions like redistributing the load and cleaning the drain pump filter. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Addressing the issue promptly will save you time, money, and potential damage to your appliance.