Troubleshooting Washer Problems

Troubleshooting washer problems can be frustrating, especially if you are in a hurry to wash your clothes, and you don’t have the time to wait for a repair man. Often, the issue is really just something simple. Save yourself some time and money by going through the following list of typical problems to try and fix the washer yourself.

Washer Is Too Noisy or Vibrates Excessively

An unbalanced load usually causes the rattling sound or “walking” of the washer. Open the lid, wait for the clothes to stop spinning and redistribute them so that the load is balanced. Check whether the washer is leveled. Each washing machine has either two or four legs underneath it that can be regulated. Take a level and place it at each corner. Using pliers or a wrench, adjust the legs so that they are leveled. The excess noise produced by the washer may also be a result of the vibrations reflected from the floor. A large piece of plywood positioned underneath the washing machine is a quick solution in this case.

Washed Clothes Do Not Smell Fresh

Check inside the outer tub for any sign of detergent build-up or a piece of clothing that is stuck. Make sure that the drain line and drain hose are clear. Remember to unplug the appliance beforehand.

Water from the Washer Is Leaking on the Floor

Unplug the appliance immediately and cut the water supply to the machine. Start by inspecting the hoses for signs of wear and tear. They might need to be replaced occasionally, as they are the main culprit for leaks. Check the water supply connections. There might also be a problem in the water pump or a crack in the outer tub, in which case you will need the help of a specialist.

Water Fills the Tub Too Slowly or Not Enough

Make sure the water supply valves are turned fully. Check the hoses. With the hoses removed, look at the filter screens behind the machine and determine whether they are clogged. Do not remove them in this case. Take a turkey baster and use it similar to a syringe to clean the clogging by sucking out the sediment. Check whether the drain hose is on one level with the top of the inner tub. 

Temperature Is Wrong

Start by checking the hot and cold-water valves and whether they are turned on full. Make sure that the supply hoses are not switched.

Does Not Spin

Often the solution is just to rebalance the washing load or to check if any of the clothes are jammed.

Does Not Work

Check the plug. If it is plugged in properly and the machine still doesn’t work, check the outlet for current by plugging in another device such as a hair drier. If the problem is in the outlet, check the circuit breaker. If the power light is on but the washer is not working, check the lid switch and the water supply valve.

Of course, there are many other reasons for each specific problem detailed above, but if the fault cannot be resolved with these easy steps, it is better to leave it to a professional.