Why washer wont spin

When washers have spin cycle issues, they often won't go through the drain cycle either. So if your washing machine won't spin or drain, the same troubleshooting steps should work. Your appliances matter. So does your time. Make an appointment now, and our technicians will get you back up and running as soon as the same day. Schedule a repair. When your washing machine is overstuffed, it may fill but not spin. Some washer models have automatic detectors to tell you if you've overfilled your washing machine, but many don't.

The machine generally won't recognize the issue until the washer has filled with water. If that's the case, unfortunately, your only solution is to remove some of the soggy clothes.

If you're trying to wash only a couple of heavy items, your washing machine may not spin or may not spin effectively. This often occurs when you're washing things like a comforter or shoes.

Open the machine and shift the items around to balance the washing machine load, and your washer can spin more effectively. Adding more items to help balance a load can be effective, too, as long it doesn't overfill the machine. You'll probably know if your washing machine isn't balanced, because it will make a lot of noise and vibration as it goes through its spin cycle.

An uneven surface can cause issues for all sorts of washers, since it allows the machine to rock and move while agitating. Some front-loading washers can even sense if they're not balanced properly, and won't spin as a safety precaution—so if you have a front-loading washer that won't spin, this is one of the first things you should check for. Top loaders have a device called a lid switch that signals to the washer when the lid is not properly closed.

Problem: As a general rule, a washing machine doesn't spin normally unless the laundry load has been drained of water. Fix: For the first issue, unkink the hose.

To solve the second problem, detach and unclog the hoses leading from the appliance to its drain pump. Problem: Even when your washing machine agitates just fine, trouble with the spin cycle might be caused by your drive motor. Fix: This last solution is not a DIY project unless you are very experienced and uber confident. The rest of us will need to hire a qualified professional to replace the motor. Laura Firszt writes for networx.

Looking for a Pro? Includes helpful diagrams that show the workings of washing machines. Note: Direct-drive washing machines do not have belts. If the spin cycle works, the motor is operating and the belt is not broken. Tighten or replace the belt. Check the lid switch and the tab on the lid that strikes it.

If the plastic tab is broken, the washer may halt during certain cycles. Press and release the switch. Remove the switch, test it, and replace it if needed. Call an appliance repair person.