The Washing Machine Won’t Drain or Spin – What to Do When Your Washing Machine Won’t Spin or Drain Properly

If you’ve ever been in the middle of doing laundry and your washing machine suddenly stops spinning or draining properly, you know just how frustrating it can be. Not only can it delay your laundry day, but it can also be a sign of a larger issue with your machine. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem and get your washing machine back in working order.

Table of Contents

1. Check the Power Source
2. Inspect the Lid Switch
3. Examine the Drain Hose
4. Inspect the Pump
5. Check the Belt
6. Clean the Filter
7. Inspect the Motor Coupling
8. Look at the Clutch
9. Examine the Agitator Directional Cogs
10. Check the Motor
11. Inspect the Tub Bearing
12. Look at the Shock Absorbers
13. Examine the Suspension Springs
14. Call a Professional
15. Prevent Future Issues

1. Check the Power Source

The first step in troubleshooting your washing machine is to make sure it’s receiving power. Check the outlet your machine is plugged into and ensure it’s functioning properly. If the outlet is functioning correctly, check the power cord for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any damage, replace the cord before proceeding.

2. Inspect the Lid Switch

The lid switch is a safety feature on your washing machine that prevents the machine from spinning or draining if the lid is open. If the lid switch is malfunctioning, it can prevent your machine from spinning or draining properly. To test the lid switch, open and close the lid of your machine. If you hear a clicking sound when you close the lid, the switch is working correctly. If not, it may need to be replaced.

3. Examine the Drain Hose

The drain hose is responsible for carrying water out of your washing machine and into your home’s drainage system. If the hose becomes clogged or kinked, it can prevent your machine from draining properly. Check the hose for any signs of damage, such as cracks or kinks, and clear any clogs before attempting to use your machine again.

4. Inspect the Pump

The pump in your washing machine is responsible for circulating water through the machine and draining it out. If the pump becomes clogged or damaged, it can prevent your machine from draining properly. To check the pump, unplug your machine and remove the back panel. Locate the pump and inspect it for any signs of damage or clogging. If the pump is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

5. Check the Belt

The belt in your washing machine is responsible for connecting the motor to the drum and allowing the drum to spin. If the belt becomes worn or stretched, it can prevent your machine from spinning properly. To check the belt, unplug your machine and remove the back panel. Locate the belt and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the belt is worn or stretched, it will need to be replaced.

6. Clean the Filter

The filter in your washing machine is responsible for catching any debris that may be in the water before it reaches the pump. If the filter becomes clogged, it can prevent your machine from draining properly. To clean the filter, unplug your machine and locate the filter, which is typically located at the bottom of the machine. Remove any debris and clean the filter thoroughly before replacing it.

7. Inspect the Motor Coupling

The motor coupling in your washing machine is responsible for connecting the motor to the transmission. If the coupling becomes worn or damaged, it can prevent the drum from spinning or draining properly. To inspect the motor coupling, unplug your machine and remove the cabinet. Locate the motor and transmission and inspect the coupling for any signs of wear or damage. If the coupling is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

8. Look at the Clutch

The clutch in your washing machine is responsible for engaging the transmission and allowing the drum to spin. If the clutch becomes worn or damaged, it can prevent your machine from spinning properly. To inspect the clutch, unplug your machine and remove the cabinet. Locate the clutch and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the clutch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

9. Examine the Agitator Directional Cogs

The agitator directional cogs in your washing machine are responsible for turning the agitator in one direction during the wash cycle and then in the opposite direction during the spin cycle. If the cogs become worn or damaged, it can prevent your machine from spinning properly. To inspect the cogs, unplug your machine and remove the agitator. Locate the cogs and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. If the cogs are damaged, they will need to be replaced.

10. Check the Motor

The motor in your washing machine is responsible for powering the drum and the pump. If the motor becomes damaged, it can prevent your machine from spinning or draining properly. To check the motor, unplug your machine and remove the cabinet. Locate the motor and inspect it for any signs of damage. If the motor is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

11. Inspect the Tub Bearing

The tub bearing in your washing machine is responsible for supporting the drum and allowing it to spin smoothly. If the bearing becomes worn or damaged, it can prevent your machine from spinning properly. To inspect the bearing, unplug your machine and remove the back panel. Locate the bearing and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the bearing is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

12. Look at the Shock Absorbers

The shock absorbers in your washing machine are responsible for reducing the vibration caused by the spinning drum. If the shock absorbers become worn or damaged, they may not be able to effectively reduce the vibration, which can cause your machine to stop spinning properly. To inspect the shock absorbers, unplug your machine and remove the cabinet. Locate the shock absorbers and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. If the shock absorbers are damaged, they will need to be replaced.

13. Examine the Suspension Springs

The suspension springs in your washing machine are responsible for supporting the drum and allowing it to move smoothly. If the springs become worn or damaged, they may not be able to properly support the drum, which can cause your machine to stop spinning properly. To inspect the suspension springs, unplug your machine and remove the cabinet. Locate the springs and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. If the springs are damaged, they will need to be replaced.

14. Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all of the above steps and your washing machine still isn’t spinning or draining properly, it may be time to call in a professional. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action.

15. Prevent Future Issues

To prevent future issues with your washing machine, be sure to clean it regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Additionally, avoid overloading the machine and using too much detergent, as both of these can cause excessive wear and tear on the components.

In conclusion, a washing machine that won’t spin or drain properly can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem to deal with. However, by following these 14 steps, you can diagnose and potentially fix the issue yourself. Remember to always unplug your machine before attempting any repairs and to take proper safety precautions. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance.

FAQs

1. Why won’t my washing machine spin or drain properly? There are a variety of reasons why a washing machine may not be spinning or draining properly, including issues with the lid switch, belt, pump, motor, or other components.
2. How can I tell if my washing machine’s lid switch is the problem? If your washing machine is not spinning or draining and you hear a clicking noise when you close the lid, the lid switch may be the issue.
3. What should I do if my washing machine’s belt is worn or damaged? If your washing machine’s belt is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. You can do this yourself or call a professional for assistance.
4. Can overloading my washing machine cause it to stop spinning or draining properly? Yes, overloading your washing machine can cause excessive wear and tear on the components, which can lead to issues with spinning or draining.
5. How often should I clean and maintain my washing machine? You should clean your washing machine regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to prevent future issues. This typically includes cleaning the drum, detergent dispenser, and lint filter, as well as checking for any signs of wear or damage.

6. What other common problems can occur with washing machines? Common problems with washing machines include leaks, strange noises, failure to fill or drain properly, and failure to complete cycles.
7. Can I fix my washing machine myself, or do I need to call a professional? Minor issues such as clogged hoses or a tripped circuit breaker can often be fixed by homeowners themselves. However, if you are unsure about any repairs or if the issue is more complex, it’s best to call a professional.
8. How can I prevent issues with my washing machine? Regularly cleaning and maintaining your washing machine can help prevent future issues. Additionally, avoid overloading the machine, use the appropriate amount of detergent, and make sure to only wash items that are safe for machine washing.
9. Is it safe to attempt washing machine repairs myself? It is generally safe to attempt minor repairs such as cleaning clogged hoses or replacing a worn belt, as long as proper safety precautions are taken. However, more complex repairs should be left to professionals.
10. How can I find a reliable professional to repair my washing machine? Ask for referrals from friends or family, read online reviews, and make sure the professional is licensed and insured. You can also contact the manufacturer or a local appliance repair company for recommendations.