How To Fix Your Washing Machine?

Taking the time to fix your washing machine at the first sign of trouble can save you from a lot of headaches and costly repairs down the road.

Regular maintenance and care for your appliance will also help keep it in good working order so that you don’t have to worry about major issues arising.

If you suspect there is something wrong with your machine, this article will talk about some tips on how to diagnose and how to repair your washing machine.

Continue reading to find out what to do if your washing machine is acting up.

Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Washing Machine Repair

From an overabundance of soap to a flooded kitchen floor, common washing machine problems can be fairly alarming. While some repairs are straightforward and can be done easily, others will necessitate bringing in a professional to assess the damage and repair it.

Regardless of what you choose, having washing machine problems is never enjoyable, and most households need to get this vital appliance back up and running as soon as possible.

Here is our step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and repairing common washing machine issues:

Getting to Know the Common Washing Machine Problems

Before getting started, always make sure that the power source is off before working. This will help avoid any potential electrical shock and damage to the appliance.

The most common issues with washing machines include the following:

Not draining properly
Excessive vibration or shaking during use
Making strange noises while in operation
Inability to select cycles and settings
Leaking water and more

Tools You Will Need

To complete a DIY repair, you will need the following tools:

A Phillips head screwdriver
An adjustable wrench
Pliers
A putty knife and white spirit
Replacement parts if needed (e.g. hoses, pumps and seals)

Once you have all the necessary tools, you can begin assessing and repairing the issue.

Fixing a Washing Machine That Does Turn On

If your washing machine is unresponsive when you try to turn it on, don’t fret. There may be a simple solution. Here is how you can deal with it:

Check Power Source: Be sure that the power source connected to your washing machine is in working order.
Inspect the Circuit Breaker: If your washing machine is still not responding, check the circuit breaker for any tripped breakers. If necessary, you can reset it to restore power to your appliance.
Check Lid Switch: If the power is on and your washing machine still won’t turn on, then it could be an issue with the lid switch. Remove the control panel and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear.
Overheated Washer Motor: If the lid switch isn’t the problem, then it is likely that the motor has overheated and needs to be reset.

Fixing a Washing Machine That Does Not Clean Clothes Properly

If your washing machine is not cleaning clothes properly, the cause may be something more complicated. Here is how you can troubleshoot and fix it:

Check the Detergent Amount: Make sure that you are using the appropriate amount of detergent for each wash cycle. Too little or too much detergent can prevent clothes from being thoroughly cleaned.
Check the Water Temperature: If you are using warm or hot water, make sure it is not too hot. High temperatures can damage delicate clothing and prevent machine from working effectively.
Restart the Wash Programs: If the water temperature is not the problem, try to restart the wash program. This can help reset any settings that may have become misaligned.
Clean the Filter: The filter may be clogged with lint or other debris that prevents clothes from being properly washed. Clean it out as needed.
Diagnose and Replace Worn or Damaged Parts: Inspect the hoses, pumps, seals, and other parts to see if there is any damage. If necessary, replace any worn or damaged items with new ones.

Fixing a Washing Machine With Spin Cycle Issues

If your washing machine is not spinning properly, it could be an issue with the motor or belt. Here is how you can assess and fix this problem:

Inspect the Pump Belt: The pump belt may have become worn or damaged over time, preventing it from spinning. Replace it if needed.
Check the Motor Bearings: Look for any signs of wear and tear on the motor bearings. If necessary, clean or replace them.
Inspect the Motor: The motor could be jammed due to blockages, dirt, or debris. Remove and inspect it for any obstructions.
Redistribute the Clothing: Keep your washing machine from flooding the laundry room. If you try to wash too many clothes at once and they’re not adequately distributed, causing washing machines not to spin.
Check the Machine’s Level: Make sure the washing machine is levelled on the floor. An unleveled machine can cause it to shake, making it difficult for the spin cycle to function properly.
Ensure the Washing Machine is Draining Properly: If necessary, clean out the filter and check for any obstructions. If needed, you may need to replace the whole drain pump.

Fixing a Washing Machine With Loud Noises

If your washing machine is making an excessive grinding noise when it’s running, there could be something wrong with its internal parts. Here is how to find and repair the issue:

Inspect the Drum: Make sure there are no objects in the drum or that any of its components have become loose.
Check the Pump: The pump may be jammed due to blockages, dirt, or debris. Remove and inspect it for any obstructions.
Consider Checking the Tub Seal: The tub seal can become worn out or damaged over time, which can cause excessive noise. Replace it if necessary.
Replace the Washing Machine Vibration Absorbers: If your machine is still making loud noises after you’ve checked all of the other components, consider replacing the vibration absorbers. This will help to dampen any vibration and reduce the noise.
Check for Loose Connections: Make sure all of the connections inside the washing machine are secure, as loose components can cause loud noises. Tighten any loose screws and make sure all wires are securely connected.
Check Any Broken Belt: As time passes, the belt may become worn or broken which will lead to it not spinning correctly. To prevent this issue, be sure to replace your belt when necessary.

Fixing a Washing Machine That Does Not Drain Properly

If your washing machine is not draining properly, it could be due to a clogged filter or an issue with the drain hose. Here is how to diagnose and repair this problem:

Look for Clogs: Check the filter and drain hose for any clogs. If necessary, clean out any debris or dirt that may be blocking the flow of water.
Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose to make sure it is not kinked or blocked by anything. If needed, replace it with a new one.
Inspect Any Worn Parts: Look for any worn or damaged parts, such as the hoses and pumps. Replace them if necessary.

Fixing a Washing Machine That Smells

If your washing machine has a musty smell, it could be caused by bacteria or mould. Here is how to remove the unpleasant odour:

Clean the Drum with Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix water, vinegar, and baking soda in a spray bottle. Spray it inside the drum and leave it for 10 minutes before rinsing it off.
Clean the Detergent Drawer: Wipe down the detergent drawer using a cloth dampened with water and white vinegar. This will help to remove any bacteria or mould that has built up over time.
Use Odor Absorbing Bags: Place odour-absorbing bags in the drum of your washing machine overnight to help absorb any lingering odours.
Run an Empty Wash Cycle: Run an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar to help remove any remaining dust or debris. This will also help to deodorize the machine.
Check for Rust or Mineral Deposits: The water inlet valve may have a build-up of rust and mineral deposits inside. Clean it out with a soft brush to remove any debris.
Clean Regularly: Make sure you clean your washing machine regularly to prevent any odours from building up. By doing this, you can help keep your machine running smoothly and smelling fresh.

Fixing a Washing Machine With a Water Leak

If your washing machine is leaking water, it could be due to a broken hose or a faulty pump. Here’s how to diagnose and fix the issue:

Check the Drain Water: Inspect the water coming out of the drain hose to see if it is leaking from there. If so, replace the hose or tighten any loose connections.
Scan the Fill Hoses: Make sure your fill hose is properly connected and has no cracks or leaks. Replace them if necessary.
Inspect Water Pump: Check the water pump for any cracks or breaks. Replace it if needed, as this will help to stop the leaking.
Check Door Seal: Make sure the door seal is properly fitting and not cracked or damaged. Replace it if necessary to prevent any water from leaking out of the washing machine.
Check Tub Seal: The main tub seal is located where the outer tub connects to the transmission. If you think this may be the issue, it is typically best to contact a professional, as resolving it can be tricky. You should seriously consider both replacing the seal and getting a new washing machine before making a decision.

Ask Your Professional Technician

If all else fails, it is best to call a professional technician. They will be able to assess the issue and provide you with the best solution for your washing machine.

A professional’s help can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. They will also be able to provide you with advice on how to maintain your washing machine moving forward so that it stays running great for years to come.