Washing Machine Not Spinning? 8 Things to Check Before Calling a Repairman


Washing Machine Not Spinning? 8 Things to Check Before Calling a Repairman

If your washing machine finishes its cycle but the drum doesn't spin, don't assume that the machine needs to be replaced. In many cases, the cause can be something simple that you can check yourself.

Here are some of the most common reasons why a washing machine won't spin and what you can do about them.

1. The washing machine is overloaded

One of the simplest reasons a washing machine may not spin is an unbalanced or overloaded drum.

Heavy items such as towels, blankets and bedding can move to one side of the drum during the cycle. When this happens, the washing machine may stop the spin cycle to prevent excessive vibration.

Try removing some of the clothes and spreading the remaining items evenly around the drum.

Then run a spin cycle again.

2. The drain filter is blocked

If there is still water inside the drum, the washing machine may refuse to start the spin cycle.

A blocked pump filter can prevent the machine from draining properly. Coins, hair, small pieces of fabric and other objects can become trapped inside.

Turn the washing machine off and check the pump filter according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Be careful when opening the filter because water may come out.

3. The drain hose is kinked

A washing machine cannot spin properly if it cannot drain the water.

Check the drain hose at the back of the machine and make sure it isn't:

  • Kinked
  • Crushed
  • Blocked
  • Bent too sharply

A restricted drain hose can cause water to remain inside the drum and prevent the machine from entering the spin cycle.

4. The door isn't locking properly

Modern washing machines won't normally spin unless the door lock confirms that the door is securely closed.

Check that nothing is trapped between the door and the rubber seal.

If the door closes normally but the machine still refuses to spin, the door lock or interlock could be faulty.

5. The wrong programme is selected

Some washing machines have programmes that use a very low spin speed or don't spin at all.

Check the selected programme and look at the spin-speed setting.

Try selecting a normal Spin or Drain & Spin programme and see whether the drum starts turning.

6. The washing machine is not draining

If your washing machine is full of water at the end of the cycle, the problem may actually be with the drainage system rather than the spin motor.

Check:

  • The pump filter
  • The drain hose
  • The waste connection
  • The drain pump

A blocked filter or hose is something you may be able to deal with yourself. If the pump itself has failed, professional repair may be necessary. Which? similarly identifies blockages and pump problems as common reasons for drainage failures.

7. The drum spins by hand but not during a cycle

If the drum turns freely when you move it by hand but the machine doesn't turn it during a wash or spin programme, there could be a mechanical or electrical problem.

Possible causes include a motor problem, worn components or an issue with the control system.

This is usually a job for a qualified appliance technician rather than something to dismantle yourself.

8. The washing machine may have detected a fault

Some modern washing machines automatically stop the cycle when they detect a problem.

If your machine displays an error code, check the manufacturer's manual for the meaning of that code.

Write down the exact code before searching for a solution, because the same symptoms can have different causes depending on the model.

When should you call a repair technician?

If you've checked the load, programme, filter and drain hose but the washing machine still won't spin, the problem may involve an internal component.

It's better not to dismantle electrical components unless you know what you're doing.

If the machine is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer before attempting any repair.

Final thought

A washing machine that won't spin doesn't necessarily mean that you need a new appliance.

Start with the simple checks: the load, programme, drainage, filter and hose. These are often easier to investigate before considering a more serious mechanical or electrical fault.

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