What Causes the Agitator on a Washing Machine to Agitate Slowly?
A variety of things can cause the agitator on a washing machine to agitate slowly. For example, anything from too large of a wash load and bulky items to a weak motor can impact an agitator's function. If you suspect that the agitator or a part related to it could be failing, contact a washing machine repair technician to troubleshoot it. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Too Much Laundry in the Washtub
-
Avoid overloading your washing machine's washtub with clothes. Too many items in the washtub not only hinders the agitator's ability to move but also prevents water and suds from effectively penetrating clothing and cleaning them. Review the operating instructions in the washing machine manual for loading guidelines. Overall, you should only load the drum so it's no more than three-quarters full.
Washing Large Bulky Items
-
Although it can be tempting to put comforters, bedspreads and draperies into a residential washing machine, the usually large, often heavy fabrics can strain an agitator's performance. Take bulky items to a laundromat with an industrial washer or to a dry cleaner instead. If you wash bulky items in a residential washing machine and the washer starts to make strange noises during the agitation cycle, stop the washer and remove the items. In certain cases, washing weighty items in a residential washing machine can break the agitator.
-
Obstruction
-
Occasionally, a piece of clothing can get caught in the agitator at the bottom of the washtub, limiting the agitator's normal range of motion and causing slow movement. Empty the washtub and feel around the bottom of the tub for a sock or pantyhose that might have gotten tangled around the agitator. Removing the obstruction should restore the component's full function.
Failing Motor
-
A washing machine's motor is what enables an agitator to move. If the agitator's normal back-and-forth motion seems weakened, the motor could be failing. Contact a washing machine repair person to evaluate the motor's condition and make necessary repairs.
Basic Agitator Performance Test
-
If you're hesitating about whether to contact a washing machine repair person to inspect the washer's agitator, General Electric (GE) recommends performing a basic agitator test to determine if the washer is operating properly. Lift up the lid and put a garment into the washer. Take note of the item's initial position in the washtub and shut the lid. Start the washer and allow it to operate for at least two minutes before opening the lid. If the agitator is functioning normally, the garment should have changed position in the washtub. If the garment didn't move, have the washer serviced.
-
References
- Photo Credit Ciaran Griffin/Stockbyte/Getty Images
