Whirlpool Washer won't spin or drain
Common reasons your Whirlpool Washer won't spin or drain
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't spin or drain are a seized gearcase, a broken motor, or a failed door switch.
13% of the time it's the
Gearcase
13% of the time it's the
Motor
11% of the time it's the
Door Switch
63% of the time it's the
Something else
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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool washer
Gearcase Replacement
A seized washer gearcase exhibits noticeable symptoms during operation. You may hear loud grinding or rumbling noises, particularly during the agitating or spinning cycles. The washer drum might not turn as smoothly, resulting in jerky or uneven movements, or it may completely stop agitating or spinning. The washer might experience difficulty in shifting between different cycles. Over time, the increased friction and strain on the seized gearcase may cause overheating, emitting a burning smell. A seized gearcase should be replaced by a Sears Home Services professional.
Motor Replacement
A broken washer motor will prevent the spin basket from rotating or agitating, and can also cause a variety of other issues that affect the washer's ability to function properly. Signs that the motor is wearing out include unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or squealing sounds. The washer may also exhibit erratic spinning or agitation, with clothes not being properly rinsed or still soaking wet after the spin cycle. Additionally, a worn-out motor may lead to the washer not completing its cycles, stopping abruptly, or not starting at all. Burnt smells or overheating around the motor area can be indicative of internal problems. In some cases, visible damage to the motor itself may be apparent.
Door Switch Replacement
A washer door switch is a safety feature that prevents the washing machine from operating if the door is open. The door switch sends a signal to the electronic control board indicating if the door is open or closed. If the door switch is broken, the washer won't be able to spin or drain. A damaged door switch could also prevent the washer from starting. If the door switch is broken, it should be replaced by a qualified appliance repair technician.
What to expect when you experience a washer won't spin or drain issue
How is the won't spin or drain issue resolved
Correcting most washer won't spin or drain problems usually involves replacing the gearcase, motor, or door switch. But, because other issues could be involved, a thorough diagnosis is needed to fix the problem. An accurate diagnosis is required to understand the extent and cost of repair.
Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that won't spin or drain
When a washer won't spin or drain, it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unnecessary parts, we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing all types of washer failures.
What to look out for with a washer that won't spin or drain diagnosis
Diagnosing modern appliances without the proper knowledge or training is difficult. Without the proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer will only be achieved through replacing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronics that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.
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Repair Washer Resources
Need to fix a washing machine that won't spin? Get expert advice from Sears Home Services.
Learn how a pressure transducer works to detect water level in a washing machine.
Learn how a top-load washing machine works and how to use and maintain the washer.
Learn how a mixing valve works to control water temperature in a washer.
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.
Additional possible Whirlpool washer symptoms you may experience
- Whirlpool washer won't stop filling
- Whirlpool washer won't turn off
- Whirlpool washer won't start cycle
- Whirlpool washer vibrates
- Whirlpool washer rinse cycle not working
- Whirlpool washer not working
- Whirlpool washer not turning on
- Whirlpool washer not starting
- Whirlpool washer not spinning
- Whirlpool washer not sensing
- Whirlpool washer not rinsing
- Whirlpool washer not finishing the cycle
- Whirlpool washer not filling
- Whirlpool washer not draining
- Whirlpool washer not agitating
- Whirlpool washer noisy
- Whirlpool washer no water
- Whirlpool washer no power
- Whirlpool washer making loud banging noise on spin cycle
- Whirlpool washer leaking from bottom
- Whirlpool washer control lock won't turn off
- Whirlpool washer cold water not working
- Whirlpool washer burning smell