Amana Washer Doesn T Spin

Introduction

Discovering your Amana washer doesn’t spin at the end of a wash cycle can be frustrating. Wet clothes, wasted time, and a potential mess are all things you want to avoid. A washer that won’t spin means your clothes aren’t being properly rinsed or dried, leading to mildew and wasted energy. This problem usually becomes apparent after a wash cycle completes, leaving clothes soaking wet. Let’s get to the bottom of this quickly so you can get your laundry done efficiently.

Common Causes of Amana Washer Doesn’t Spin

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

Overloaded Washer: Too many clothes can prevent the washer from spinning correctly.
Unbalanced Load: Clothes clumped on one side can throw off the balance and stop the spin cycle.
Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch prevents the washer from spinning when the lid is open for safety. If faulty, the washer thinks the lid is open.
Faulty Drive Belt: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it’s broken or worn, the drum won’t spin.
Motor Coupling Issues: The motor coupling connects the motor to the transmission. A broken coupling will stop the spin.
Drainage Problems: If the washer hasn’t fully drained, it might not spin. Check for clogged drains.
Worn Carbon Brushes in Motor: The motor relies on carbon brushes. If they become excessively worn, the motor might fail to spin.
Blocked Drain Pump: A blocked drain pump will prevent water from being removed and may stop the spin.
Control Board Malfunction: Although less common, a faulty control board can cause the washer not to spin.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help narrow down the cause of the problem:

Washer fills with water but doesn’t start the spin cycle.
Washer makes a humming noise but the drum doesn’t spin.
Washer drains the water, but the drum doesn’t spin.
Washer spins intermittently or very slowly.
Washer is making unusual noises during the spin cycle.
Error code displayed on the washer’s control panel (check your user manual).

How to Fix Amana Washer Doesn’t Spin Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Amana washer:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washer from the power outlet before any inspection or repair.
Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the washer is overloaded. Ensure the load is balanced.
Redistribute the Load: Manually redistribute the clothes in the drum to ensure they are evenly spread out.
Check the Lid Switch: Open and close the lid firmly. Sometimes, this resets the switch. If you’re comfortable, you can inspect the switch (with the washer unplugged!) for damage or obstruction.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Ensure it’s properly connected and not blocked.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front of the washer). Refer to your user manual for the exact location and how to access and clean the filter. Remove any debris.
Listen for Noises: With the washer unplugged, try to manually rotate the drum. Listen for unusual noises that might indicate a problem with the motor, belt, or transmission.
Check the Drive Belt (If Accessible): If you can access the drive belt (usually by removing an access panel on the back of the washer), inspect it for wear, cracks, or breakage.
Check the Motor Coupling (If Accessible): Similar to the drive belt, inspect the motor coupling for any signs of damage or breakage.
Run a “Rinse and Spin” Cycle: Select a “Rinse and Spin” cycle. Observe if the washer drains and spins. This can help determine if the problem is specific to the wash cycle.
Look for Error Codes: Check the display panel for any error codes. Refer to your owner’s manual to understand the error and potential solutions.
Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacements, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Balance the Load: Always ensure your loads are balanced to prevent strain on the motor and belt.
Regular Cleaning: Clean the washer regularly to prevent buildup of soap residue and debris, which can affect performance. Run an empty washer cycle with a washing machine cleaner.
Check for Obstructions: Regularly inspect the drum and drain pump for any obstructions, such as socks or small items.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the troubleshooting steps haven’t resolved the issue, it might be time to consider a replacement. Commonly failing parts that can cause a “washer doesn’t spin” issue include:

Lid Switch: $20-$50
Drive Belt: $15-$40
Motor Coupling: $10-$30
Drain Pump: $30-$75

If the motor or control board is faulty, repair costs can quickly exceed the value of the washer. A new Amana washer typically costs between $400 and $800.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any inspection or repair.
Avoid touching any electrical components with wet hands.
If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Be careful when handling tools and working around water.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Gloves
Shop towels
Flashlight

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer spinning slowly? A: This could be due to an unbalanced load, a worn drive belt, or a problem with the motor.
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, the lid switch may be faulty. You can sometimes test it with a multimeter (consult a professional if you’re not familiar with electrical testing).
Q: Can I replace the drive belt myself? A: Yes, but it requires some mechanical skill and access to the belt. Watch a tutorial video for your specific model.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine? A: It’s recommended to clean your washing machine every month or every 30 loads.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting why your Amana washer doesn’t spin can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and resolve the problem yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re uncomfortable performing any repairs. With a little effort, you can often get your washer spinning again and avoid the cost of a new appliance or a costly repair bill.