Washing Machine Won T Do Final Spin

Introduction

Finding your clothes sopping wet at the end of a wash cycle because your washing machine won’t do the final spin is a common and inconvenient problem. It means you have to wring out your clothes by hand or run another wash cycle, wasting time and energy. This issue typically happens after the rinse cycle, just before the machine should be spinning at high speed to remove excess water. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent mold and mildew growth in your machine and laundry room, and to ensure your clothes are properly cleaned and dried.

Common Causes of Washing Machine Won’t Do Final Spin

Here are some common reasons why your washing machine might be skipping the final spin cycle:

• Overloading: Too many clothes in the drum can prevent the machine from spinning properly.
• Unbalanced Load: Clothes clumped on one side of the drum can trigger a safety mechanism to stop the spin.
• Drainage Issues: A clogged drain hose or drain pump can prevent the water from emptying, preventing the spin.
• Lid Switch Problems: A faulty lid switch (on top-loading machines) may not be signaling the machine that the lid is closed, stopping the spin cycle.
• Drive Belt Issues: A worn or broken drive belt (in some models) can prevent the drum from spinning.
• Motor Problems: A failing motor can sometimes lack the power to perform the high-speed spin.
• Control Board Issues: A malfunctioning control board can cause the spin cycle to be skipped.
• Drain Hose Kink: A kinked or blocked drain hose will prevent proper drainage.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that your washing machine is failing to spin:

• Clothes are soaking wet at the end of the cycle.
• Water remains in the drum after the cycle is complete.
• The machine makes a humming sound but the drum doesn’t spin.
• The machine stops abruptly before the spin cycle.
• Error codes related to draining or spinning appear on the display.
• You notice excessive vibration or shaking during the wash cycle.

How to Fix Washing Machine Won’t Do Final Spin Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your washing machine:

1. Check for Overloading: Remove some items from the drum if it’s packed tightly.
2. Rearrange the Load: Redistribute clothes evenly around the drum to balance the load.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked, bent sharply, or clogged. Straighten it out if necessary.
4. Clean the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the washing machine and the drainpipe. Flush it with water to remove any blockages.
5. Check the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump filter (usually at the bottom front of the machine). Open it carefully (have a towel ready for spills) and remove any lint, debris, or small objects.
6. Listen for the Drain Pump: During the drain cycle, listen to see if the drain pump is running. If it’s silent, it may be faulty.
7. Check the Lid Switch (Top-Loading Machines): Inspect the lid switch for any damage. Try gently pressing the switch with your finger (unplug the machine first!). If the machine starts, the switch may need replacement, though further testing is needed before committing to that.
8. Run a Test Cycle with a Small Load: Try running a small load (a few towels) to see if the machine spins correctly. This helps isolate whether the problem is load-related.
9. Check the Leveling Legs: Make sure all four leveling legs are properly adjusted so the machine sits level on the floor. An unbalanced machine can have difficulty spinning. Use a level to verify.
10. Run a Calibration Cycle (If Applicable): Some washing machines have a calibration or self-test cycle. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to run this.
11. Check for Obstructions in the Tub: Inspect the inside of the washing machine tub for any items that might be caught, such as socks, small toys, or coins.
12. Power Cycle the Machine: Unplug the washing machine for 10 minutes to reset the internal computer. Plug it back in and try running a spin cycle.
13. Review the Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual may contain specific troubleshooting tips for your model.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many spin cycle problems can be resolved without buying new parts. Regularly cleaning the drain pump filter and drain hose is crucial for preventing clogs. Ensuring the machine is level and not overloaded are also important maintenance steps. Power cycling the machine can sometimes reset the control board and resolve temporary glitches. For more related activities, check out our Water In Front Of Washing Machine.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t spin, the motor, drive belt, or control board may need replacement. Motor replacements typically cost between $150-$400, drive belts are usually $20-$50, and control boards can range from $100-$500. Before replacing any parts, it’s wise to consult a qualified appliance repair technician to confirm the diagnosis.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs or inspections.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls.
• Never reach into a washing machine while it’s running.
• If you’re uncomfortable performing repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Towels
• Level
• Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machine spin cycle problems:

• Q: Why does my washing machine spin during the wash cycle but not the final spin? A: This could indicate a problem with the lid switch, drain pump, or control board, specifically affecting the high-speed spin function.
• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is clogged? A: If you hear a humming sound but no water is draining, or if the drain pump filter is full of debris, it’s likely clogged.
• Q: Can an unbalanced load damage my washing machine? A: Yes, excessive vibration from an unbalanced load can damage the suspension system and other components of your machine.
• Q: Is it safe to run my washing machine if it’s not spinning properly? A: It’s best to avoid running the machine until you’ve identified and resolved the problem to prevent further damage.
• Q: Why is my washing machine shaking violently during the spin cycle? A: This is usually caused by an unbalanced load or the machine not being level.

Conclusion

A washing machine that won’t spin is a frustrating problem, but with a systematic approach, you can often diagnose and fix the issue yourself. Start with the simple solutions like checking for overloads and cleaning the drain hose. If those don’t work, move on to more advanced troubleshooting steps. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re uncomfortable with any part of the repair process. Good luck!

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