Whirlpool Washer Washes But Won T Spin

Introduction

A washing machine that washes but doesn’t spin is a frustrating problem. Your clothes are sopping wet, and you’re left wondering what went wrong. This issue often happens after a normal wash cycle, right when the machine is supposed to spin the clothes to remove water. Addressing this quickly is important because leaving wet clothes in the washer can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors. Plus, you want to avoid having to wring out all your clothes by hand!

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer Washes But Won’t Spin

Several things can cause your Whirlpool washer to wash but not spin:

• Overloading the Washer: Too many clothes can prevent the motor from spinning correctly.
• Unbalanced Load: Clothes clumped on one side can make the washer unable to spin.
• Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch tells the machine the lid is closed. If it’s broken, the washer won’t spin for safety reasons.
• Drive Belt Issues: A worn or broken drive belt can stop the drum from spinning.
• Drainage Problems: If the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin.
• Motor Coupling Problems: The motor coupling connects the motor to the transmission. A broken coupling prevents spinning.
• Faulty Motor: In rare cases, the motor itself may be failing.
• Control Board Malfunction: The control board manages the entire washing process. A glitch can sometimes prevent the spin cycle.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: A clogged filter can prevent proper drainage, which in turn prevents spinning.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to identify if this article can help you:

• The washer fills and agitates normally during the wash cycle.
• The washer drains slowly or not at all.
• The drum does not spin at all during the spin cycle.
• You hear a humming or buzzing sound during the spin cycle, but the drum doesn’t move.
• The washer stops mid-cycle, leaving clothes soaking wet.
• Error codes related to draining or spinning may be displayed (check your washer’s manual for code definitions).

How to Fix Whirlpool Washer Washes But Won’t Spin Step-by-Step Guide

1. Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before troubleshooting.
2. Check for Overloading: Remove some clothes if the washer is packed too tightly. Try to leave enough room for clothes to move freely.
3. Rearrange the Load: Distribute clothes evenly around the drum to balance the load.
4. Check the Lid Switch: Try gently pushing down on the lid during the spin cycle. If it starts spinning, the lid switch may be faulty.
5. Inspect the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or clogged. Remove the hose and check for obstructions.
6. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom front or back of the washer check your manual). Carefully remove the filter and clean out any lint, debris, or small objects.
7. Check for Proper Drainage: Ensure the washer is draining correctly before attempting to spin. If water remains in the drum, address the drainage issue first.
8. Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After making adjustments, run a rinse and spin cycle to see if the issue is resolved.
9. Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual sounds during the spin cycle. Humming, grinding, or clicking noises can indicate motor or transmission problems.
10. Check the Washer’s Level: Ensure the washer is level. Use a level to check, and adjust the legs accordingly.
11. Examine the Drive Belt (If Accessible): Some models allow access to the drive belt. Check for wear, cracks, or breaks. (Consult your washer’s manual for access instructions.)
12. Try a Different Wash Cycle: Select a smaller load size with high spin to see if it can spin the load to identify its spinning power

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacements, try these free solutions:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board.
• Check for Error Codes: Consult your washer’s manual to understand any error codes displayed. Some codes have simple solutions.
• Ensure Proper Leveling: A washer that is not level can have trouble spinning. Adjust the legs until the washer is stable.
• Review the User Manual: Sometimes, the user manual has specific troubleshooting steps for spin cycle issues.
• Preventative Maintenance: Regularly clean the drain pump filter and avoid overloading the washer.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the problem persists after trying the above steps, a faulty motor or control board might be the culprit. Replacing these parts can be costly. A new motor can range from $100 to $300, while a control board can cost $150 to $400, plus labor if you hire a technician. Common parts that fail include the lid switch, motor coupling, and drain pump. For more related activities, check out our Washing Machine Drum Not Turning During Wash Cycle.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water; avoid electrical shock.
• If you’re unsure about any repair, consult a qualified appliance technician.
• Do not attempt to bypass the lid switch; it is a safety feature.
• Make sure the floor around the washer is dry to prevent slipping.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Level
• Towels (for cleaning up spills)
• Work gloves

FAQ

Q: Why is my washer washing but not spinning even after I drained it?
A: The problem could be a faulty lid switch, drive belt, or motor coupling. Check these components after draining the water.

Q: How do I know if my washer motor is bad?
A: If you hear a humming sound during the spin cycle but the drum doesn’t move, the motor might be failing. Consult a technician for testing.

Q: Can I fix a washer that won’t spin myself?
A: Yes, many spin cycle issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps, like checking for clogs or balancing the load.

Q: My washer is making a loud banging noise when it tries to spin. What could it be?
A: This usually indicates an unbalanced load, or possibly a problem with the suspension rods. Try rebalancing the load first. If the noise persists, the suspension rods may need inspection.

Conclusion

A Whirlpool washer that washes but won’t spin can be a real inconvenience. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can often identify and resolve the issue yourself. Don’t hesitate to try these fixes before calling a technician. You might be surprised at how much you can accomplish! However, if you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, it’s always best to consult a qualified appliance repair professional.