How to Diagnose Washing Machine Problems

Are washing machine problems leaving you--well, agitated? Don't fret. Many times the cause is something simple. And fixing it is just a matter of a little tightening here, replacing the odd part there. See also How to Fix a Washing Machine That Fills Slowly and How to Fix a Washing Machine That "Walks" Across the Floor.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. If the washer won't start, check the power cord or reset the circuit breaker depending on the issue. It may be overheated and shut off temporarily. Let it cool for 30 minutes, and if it still won't start, call a professional.

2. If the motor transmission failed or the drive belt has broken, these need the assistance of a professional.

3. If the washer won't drain, clean out the drain hose and straighten any kinks. If the drain hose fits too tightly in the standpipe, adjust it to allow for a minimum of 1.25 inches for airflow so water can drain.

4. If the washer won't fill or fills slowly, turn the faucet handles counterclockwise as far as possible. This is usually the result of partially open faucets.

5. Call a profession if the washer overfills. This means the water-inlet valve or switch is defective.

[candchas]

on 11/3/2009 I have a leak underneith my White-Westinghouse washer, We checked the hoses water does not leak from there but drips underneith just beside the back legs and at the seem where the bottom part meets the top part. What is the cause? Can it be fixed, and how?

[kayekaye07]

on 8/8/2009 my washing machine doesn't spin. all my clothes were left in water and I had to take them out. What can the problem be?

[cynishere]

on 8/8/2009 My Maytag model LAT9704AAM will fill with water on all cycles. But...the only cycle that will then proceed forward through the complete stages to the end is the delicate cycle. All other cycles will fill and then 'go on a permanent vacation'. In order to drain the water from the malfunctioning cycles I have to turn the dial to the 'delicate' cycle. Pleaseeeeeeeeeeee help me. Thanks in advance.

[sheila246]

on 5/15/2009 A few days ago my Maytag top loader washing machine wouldnt agitate it just would spin,and then today went to do a small load and all it did was fill with water, it wont do anything else. Is this fixable, or is my 6 year old washer seen its better days!

[patriciac]

on 4/20/2009 my washing machine just keep on filling it wont stop the water it also wont wash but it will spin the water out