Washing Machine Has Stopped Spinning

Introduction

Is your washing machine leaving your clothes soaking wet at the end of the cycle? A washing machine that has stopped spinning is a common but frustrating problem. Not only do you have to deal with heavy, dripping clothes, but you also risk mold and mildew growth in your washer. Addressing this issue quickly can prevent further damage to your machine and your laundry room. Don’t panic! Many times, the problem can be easily fixed with a few simple checks. Explore more in our Washing Machine Problems 6 collection.

Common Causes of Washing Machine Has Stopped Spinning

Here are some of the most frequent culprits behind a washing machine that won’t spin:

• Overloading: Putting too many clothes in the machine can prevent it from spinning properly.
• Unbalanced Load: Clothes clumped on one side of the drum can throw the machine off balance.
• Clogged Drain Hose: A blockage in the drain hose can prevent water from being pumped out, inhibiting the spin cycle.
• Faulty Lid Switch: The lid switch prevents the machine from spinning when the lid is open. If it’s broken, it might think the lid is always open.
• Worn Drive Belt: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it’s worn or broken, the drum won’t spin.
• Motor Problems: A failing motor can struggle to power the spin cycle.
• Pump Issues: If the pump can’t remove water, the spin cycle won’t engage.
• Blocked Pump Filter: Coins, lint, or small objects can clog the pump filter.
• Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the electronic control board may be faulty.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s a checklist to help you narrow down the problem:

• The washing machine fills with water but doesn’t spin at any point in the cycle.
• The washing machine fills, washes, but then doesn’t spin.
• The washing machine attempts to spin, making a grinding or unusual noise, but the drum doesn’t move.
• The washing machine displays an error code on the control panel.
• The washing machine smells musty or moldy.
• The washing machine is making a loud banging noise during the wash cycle

How to Fix Washing Machine Has Stopped Spinning Step-by-Step Guide

1. Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety, always disconnect the power before troubleshooting.
2. Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the drum is packed too tightly.
3. Rearrange the Load: Redistribute clothes evenly inside the drum.
4. Check the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the wall and inspect for kinks, clogs, or blockages. Clear any obstructions.
5. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump filter (usually at the front or bottom of the machine behind an access panel). Remove the filter and clean out any lint, debris, or small objects.
6. Inspect the Lid Switch: Check the lid switch for damage or loose connections. (Consult your machine’s manual to find its exact location.)
7. Listen for Motor Sounds: Try to listen for any unusual noises coming from the motor during the spin cycle. A humming sound might indicate a motor problem.
8. Check for Error Codes: Refer to your washing machine’s manual to decipher any error codes displayed on the control panel. These codes can pinpoint the problem.
9. Check the Drive Belt: (If you feel comfortable doing so) Remove the back panel of the washing machine. Inspect the drive belt for signs of wear and tear, such as cracking or fraying. If it’s broken, that is likely the issue.
10. Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After checking these common issues, try running a rinse and spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
11. Check the Air Dome: The air dome is usually located near the drain pump, and its job is to regulate air pressure within the drain system. If you find it cracked, this can cause drainage issues.
12. Check the Water Inlet Valve: It may sound counterintuitive, but the water inlet valve may have issues that cause spinning issues. Check to ensure both hot and cold water are being provided to the machine.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you start thinking about replacements, try these free methods:

• Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the machine for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and clear errors.
• Deep Clean the Washer: Run an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and residue that can affect performance.
• Check for Leveling Issues: Make sure your washing machine is level. Use a level and adjust the legs as needed. An unlevel machine can have difficulty spinning.
• Recalibrate your machine: Some washing machines have a recalibration cycle. Refer to the user manual to determine steps.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t spin, replacement of parts might be needed. Common parts that fail include:

• Drive Belt: (Replacing the belt is straightforward and inexpensive, usually costing $10-$30 USD).
• Lid Switch: (Replacing the lid switch is usually around $20-$50 USD).
• Drain Pump: (Replacement can range from $50-$150 USD).
• Motor: (Replacing a motor can be expensive, ranging from $150-$400 USD, and may not be worth it for older machines).
• Control Board: (Replacing the control board can cost $200-$500).

If these parts need replacing, it may be better to replace the entire unit, depending on the age of the machine.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs or inspections.
• Avoid working on the machine with wet hands or while standing in water.
• Be careful when lifting or moving the washing machine, as it can be heavy.
• Consult the owners manual for specific safety guidelines for your model.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips head and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Multimeter (for testing electrical components, optional)
• Gloves
• Shop Towels

FAQ

• Why is my washing machine making a loud banging noise but not spinning? An unbalanced load is often the cause. Stop the machine, redistribute the clothes, and try again.
• My washing machine is displaying an error code. What does it mean? Consult your washing machine’s manual to understand the specific error code and the corresponding troubleshooting steps.
• How do I know if my drain pump is clogged? If your washing machine is not draining water, and you’ve already checked the drain hose, the drain pump is likely clogged.
• Can I replace the drive belt myself? Yes, replacing the drive belt is a relatively simple repair that most homeowners can do with basic tools. Watch a tutorial online.
• How can I prevent this from happening in the future? Proper maintenance can prevent this. Regularly clean your machine, don’t overload it, and level your machine.

Conclusion

A washing machine that won’t spin is a common household headache, but with this guide, you can tackle many of the possible causes yourself. By following these steps, you can often resolve the issue without the expense of calling a technician. However, if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances or if the problem persists after trying these solutions, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair professional. Discover more free resources across our collection library.