Here are seven tips to help you problem solve when your washer isn’t working properly. These may save you the expense of a service call or eliminate some issues so the problem is easier for the technician to solve. If that doesn’t work, move on to the next item to check. You may be able to replace the fuse or turn the breaker back on. If this happens frequently, call an electrician immediately!
Washer Is Plugged In, Breakers Are Fine but It Still Won’t Work
Today’s washers, both front and top load models, require a lid switch to engage for the washer to work. These switches can break and have to be replaced. They can also just get “gunked up” with lint and detergent residue. Use a cotton swab and a bit of rubbing alcohol to clean the contact areas. You’ll be amazed.
No Water Is Entering the Machine
Be sure the water valves are open. You should have two valves: a hot and a cold. They may be marked or signified by a red/blue knob or switch. Even if you always wash in cold water, some washers won’t operate unless both valves are open. If your machine is getting water but it fills very slowly, you may just need to open the valve more.
Water Valves Are Open and Still Washer Won’t Fill
If the washer won’t fill and the water valves are open, you may have a clog in the filter screen. Unplug the machine. Turn off the water valves. Get a bucket to catch the remaining water in the hoses. Unscrew the hoses from your machine, and check to see if there is a clog in the filter. A simple cleaning may do the trick to get your washer working again. If the thumping occurs during a cycle (usually the spin cycle), simply stop the machine and redistribute the wet clothing.
Weird Noises
Humming, clicking or gurgling can be caused by objects caught in the washer’s drum or internal mechanisms, clogged drains or internal sensors. Clicking or gurgling often signals an object caught in the water pump or drain line. These are easily accessed for cleaning (most front load washers have a little door near the bottom to check). You’ll probably find a button, coin or tiny toy inside. Another reminder to check pockets before loading clothes. If your washer is making squealing or screeching noises, this indicates an internal mechanical problem that will require a service call.
Terrible Noises and Vibrates Wildly
If after rebalancing the load of wet clothes the washer is still noisy and vibrates, the washer is now off-balance. You must take steps to level the washer, or it will never be quiet and further damage can occur. Pay attention to where the puddle is located, whether in the front of the washer or back of the washer. The location will give you a hint as to what to do next.
Soapy Puddles on the Floor
If you have a front-loading machine, be certain that you are using an HE - high efficiency - detergent. These are formulated to be low-sudsing and to be used in the lower levels of water in a front-loading washer. Front-loading machines have a small overflow system usually on the back of the machine. If you have too many suds, they are probably escaping from there. The water pump may be clogged with lint or a small object. If the pump isn’t allowed to work freely and properly, the water drains out too slowly and leaves your clothes wet. Clean it out (this does not require removing the pump). Even a little lint can slow the draining. If that is not the problem, the drain hose could be clogged with lint or hair. It can easily be cleaned with a thin, long-handled brush. Pet shops carry the brushes to clean aquarium tubes if you can’t find one at the hardware store.
Read the Manual and Still Have No Clue
One last thing to do before calling a repairman is to visit online appliance repair sites. A helpful site is Repair Clinic.com.
