Is your washing machine acting strangely? Before you call someone to repair your faulty washer, try troubleshooting it yourself. No, it’s not as complex as you might think. In fact, many washing machine issues can be solved with a DIY approach and a bit of elbow grease.
But wait! You aren’t sure where to start? Well, it’s good that you’re here because we’ll go over some common issues and troubleshooting tips for your broken washing machine:
Washing Machine Won’t Start
According to our friends who specialize in washing machine repair in Ottawa, a washing machine that won’t start is the most common problem. There’s nothing worse than loading your dirty clothes into your washer, pressing the “start” button, and seeing absolutely nothing happen.
Let’s look at some possible reasons for this:
Is It Plugged In?
The first thing you should do is check that the power cord is plugged in. Sometimes a washing machine’s vigorous movements can cause the plug to come loose, especially if the laundry load is imbalanced. An imbalanced load can cause vibrations strong enough to move your machine.
Check Your Circuit Breaker
If the machine is unresponsive, the problem could be with your circuit breaker. According to a reputable property management company, resetting the breaker could solve the issue. Locate the correct circuit breaker, flip it off, and switch it back on again.
Faulty Front Loader Lid
Many front-loading washers have lids with a switch strike. Check the cover by closing it and determining if it connects with the machine. If something is blocking the lid’s switch strike, the washer may not work.
Washing Machine Won’t Spin
The second most common washer issue is a machine that won’t spin. Even when the basin has drained of water, it still might not spin. Spinning is pivotal as it ensures that your clothes aren’t too wet to put in a dryer.
Level the Machine
Is your washer level on the floor? If not, your machine won’t spin. This is programmed into your washer for safety purposes. You can use a leveler to determine if the machine is slightly askew. From there, you can bring it back to level by adjusting the legs or feet. Adjust the washer feet with pliers or by hand. If the problem persists, your floor may need to be re-leveled.
Reload the Clothing
A simple fix includes reloading the clothing in the washing machine’s tub, especially if the washer is out of balance. The washer will automatically stop spinning if it detects an imbalance. Remove all the clothes and redistribute them evenly in the washer before closing the lid. The washer should start spinning again.
Washing Machine Won’t Drain
Have you checked on your washing machine only to find it full of water? This can be an altogether unpleasant experience; washers are meant to drain their water.
Check for Clogs
The number one problem with a washer that won’t drain is due to a clogged pump. A clogged pump can develop from a piece of cloth becoming stuck. Solving this may require some work, but you can start by using a cup or pail to remove the water from the machine. Then you’ll want to unplug the washer, unscrew the front panel, and prop it on boards or bricks. This way, you’ll easily access the machine’s pump and determine whether it’s clogged. Use pliers to remove the clogged item from the pump.
Check the Tube
If the problem isn’t a clogged pump, it could be because the corrugated tube is clogged instead. Unclamp the tube from the washer and empty it into a bucket. If there is a clog in the tube, it will most likely be at the end of the hose. If so, use pliers to remove the item.
Washing Machine Makes Noise
Is your washer making the most annoying sounds ever? We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a grinding, thumping, or bumping noise during the spin cycle, you’ll want to fix it immediately.
Inspect the Belts
The motor drive belt/pulley may be the source of all that racket. When a belt is worn out, it often results in loud noises within the washing machine. You can verify this by turning the machine off and manually rotating the drum. To find a solution to this problem, you’ll need to do some serious troubleshooting. Start by taking the washer apart to get to the motor and determine if the belt is cracked, frayed, or completely damaged.
Worn Out Tub Bearings
If there’s a squeaky noise emitting from the washing machine, it could be due to the tub bearings. Check the tub bearings to see if they’re worn out. If so, you may need to replace or lubricate them to resolve the aggravating squeaks.
There are many reasons why a washer will stop working. What’s important is that you narrow down the potential problems before getting a professional to take a look. The last thing you need is to spend a lot of money on an easy fix. If the issue is severe, a professional will be able to pinpoint the cause and provide a solution. We hope you found our troubleshooting tips helpful!