Washer not starting

Common reasons your washer not starting

The most common reasons your washer is not starting are a malfunctioning electronic control board, jammed door lock assembly or a faulty user interface.

  • 73%

    73% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board

  • 11%

    11% of the time it's the Door Lock Assembly

  • 10%

    10% of the time it's the User Interface Control

  • 6%

    6% of the time it's the Something else

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Common washer repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these washer parts may fix your problem.

Electronic Control Board Replacement

If a washer is not starting, it might be indicative of a faulty electronic control board. Responsible for powering up the washer and managing essential components like the drive motor and water valve, a malfunctioning control board can prevent the washer from starting. It might also fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. A shorted board may also produce a burning smell

Door Lock Assembly Replacement

When the washer door lock assembly gets stuck, you might have trouble opening or closing the washer door. The door might not close securely, causing problems when you try to start or finish a wash. You might see an error code that tells you there's a problem with the door lock. While the washer is running, the door lock might make strange clicking noises or not lock at all, stopping the washer from starting. Also, if there's a problem, the light on the door lock might not turn on like it should. You might notice water left in the drum even after the wash is done, which could mean the door lock assembly isn't letting the water drain properly.

User Interface Control Replacement

A malfunctioning user interface control might stop responding, preventing you from adjusting wash cycle settings or turning the washer on and off. In certain malfunctions, only a few buttons or dials on the interface are impacted, but sometimes the entire interface becomes unresponsive. With a defective user interface, cycle status indicators like remaining cycle time may not show correctly. Buttons or keys on the user interface might stick, leading to erratic washer behavior such as unexpected starts or stops during a cycle. There may also be error codes shown on the display.

What to expect when you experience a washer not starting issue

What is the solution for the issue of the washer not starting?

Typically, fixing most issues where the washer doesn't start requires replacing the electronic control board, door lock assembly, or user interface control. However, since there are numerous potential causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial to resolving the problem. Achieving an accurate diagnosis is pivotal in determining the extent and cost of the required repair.

Suggestions from Sears Home Services when a washer is not starting

There could be many reasons for a washer not starting. Having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem is the best way to avoid DIY guesswork. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

Things to look out for with a washer not starting diagnosis

Diagnosing today's appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Attempting to fix your washer issue without employing proper diagnostic techniques often results in guesswork-based part replacements. Over the past decade, appliances have advanced significantly, with many models featuring electronic components that are challenging to test. As a result, DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly complex.

A washer that refuses to start might have a faulty door latch or dead control module. Dirty clothes sit idle until it’s repaired. Instead of letting loads pile up, choose a repair washer near me. Quickly restarting cycles keeps your laundry routine on schedule.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my washer start?
Check the power supply, door switch, and control board for faults.
Could a faulty door switch prevent my washer from starting?
Yes, if the door switch isn’t working, the washer may not start for safety reasons.
How do I fix a washer that won’t start?
Inspect the power supply, door switch, and control board. Replace any malfunctioning parts.
What causes a washer to not start?
A faulty door switch, power supply issue, or malfunctioning control board can prevent the washer from starting.

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Glossary Terms

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.

Washer not starting: Troubleshooting Tips & Easy Fixes