Samsung Front Load Washer Will Not Spin

Introduction

A Samsung front load washer that won’t spin leaves you with soaking wet clothes and a major laundry headache. This problem, often occurring at the end of the wash cycle, means your clothes aren’t being properly dried. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also lead to mildew and unpleasant odors in your clothes and washing machine. Addressing this quickly can save you time, money, and prevent further damage to your appliance. Explore more in our Washing Machine Problems 5 collection.

Common Causes of Samsung Front Load Washer Will Not Spin

Several factors can prevent your Samsung front load washer from spinning correctly:

• Overloaded Washer: Too many clothes can prevent the drum from spinning freely.
• Unbalanced Load: Clothes bunched on one side create an imbalance that the washer detects, stopping the spin cycle.
• Drainage Issues: If the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin.
• Clogged Drain Filter: Debris trapped in the drain filter can obstruct water flow.
• Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A kinked or blocked hose prevents proper drainage.
• Faulty Lid Switch/Door Lock: The washer needs to confirm the door is closed for safety reasons, which is the function of the door lock switch.
• Worn Carbon Brushes (Motor): If the carbon brushes are worn, the motor won’t spin correctly.
• Drive Belt Issues: A slipped or broken drive belt prevents the motor from turning the drum.
• Faulty Motor Control Board: If other electronic components are damaged, it could prevent the motor from spinning correctly.

Symptoms Checklist

Look for these signs to help diagnose the problem:

• Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
• The washer makes unusual noises during the spin cycle (or fails to make any noise at all).
• Water remains in the drum after the cycle ends.
• The washer displays an error code related to spinning or draining.
• The washer vibrates excessively during the wash cycle.

How to Fix Samsung Front Load Washer Will Not Spin Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your washer:

1. Unplug the Washer: Disconnect the power cord from the outlet for safety.
2. Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the washer is packed too tightly. As a general rule, if you can’t easily place your hand into the top of the drum, it’s likely overloaded.
3. Rearrange the Load: Make sure the clothes are evenly distributed in the drum to prevent imbalance. Remove any heavy or bulky items that may be causing the imbalance.
4. Inspect the Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose is not kinked, bent, or blocked. Straighten out any kinks and remove any obstructions.
5. Locate and Clean the Drain Filter: Samsung front load washers usually have a small access panel near the bottom front. Open it, and carefully unscrew the drain filter (be prepared for some water to spill). Remove any lint, hair, or debris.
6. Check the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is properly connected to the drainpipe in the wall. Make sure it’s not inserted too far, as this can siphon water back into the machine.
7. Check for Error Codes: Consult your washer’s manual to identify and address any error codes displayed on the control panel. Some codes may indicate specific problems that need addressing.
8. Check the Door Lock/Switch: Attempt to gently push the door closed firmly. Sometimes, a slightly ajar door can prevent spinning. If you suspect a bad door lock, you may need to call a technician to inspect or replace the unit.
9. Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After checking the above, run a rinse and spin cycle with an empty drum to see if the washer spins without a load.
10. Check the Washer Level: Use a level to ensure the washing machine is level. Adjust the leveling feet at the bottom of the washer as needed. An unlevel washer can cause imbalance issues.
11. Try a Calibration Cycle: Some Samsung washers have a calibration cycle. Consult your owner’s manual to find out if your washer has this feature and how to use it.
12. Restart the Washer: Press the power button to turn the washer off, wait a few minutes, then turn it back on.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many spin cycle problems can be resolved without spending money:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for at least 10 minutes to reset the electronic controls. Plug it back in and try running a cycle.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean the washer regularly, including the door seal, dispenser, and drum, to prevent buildup of soap residue and mildew.
• Proper Loading: Avoid overloading the washer and distribute clothes evenly.
• Regular Maintenance: Check the drain hose and filter periodically to prevent blockages.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If none of the above steps work, the problem could be a faulty motor, motor control board, or other internal component. Replacing these parts can be costly. For example, motor replacements can range from $200 to $500, while motor control boards can cost between $150 and $400. Before replacing parts or calling a technician, assess the age and overall condition of your washer. If it’s more than 8-10 years old, a new washer might be a more cost-effective solution. For more related activities, check out our My Washing Machine Making Loud Noise Spins.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before performing any troubleshooting or repairs.
• Avoid working on the washer if the floor is wet to prevent electric shock.
• Be careful when handling the drain filter, as there may be residual water inside.
• Do not attempt to repair internal components unless you have experience with appliance repair.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Level
• Towels
• Bucket

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers:

• Q: Why is my washer making a loud banging noise during the spin cycle?
  A: This is usually caused by an unbalanced load. Stop the washer, rearrange the clothes, and try again.
• Q: How often should I clean the drain filter?
  A: Clean the drain filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use the washer.
• Q: What does the “UE” error code mean on my Samsung washer?
  A: “UE” typically indicates an unbalanced load.
• Q: Can I use bleach to clean the washer?
  A: Yes, but use it sparingly. Run an empty cycle with bleach to sanitize the drum.

Conclusion

A Samsung front load washer that won’t spin can be frustrating, but many issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. By following this guide, you can diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving time and money. If you’ve tried everything and the washer still won’t spin, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Discover more free resources across our collection library.