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Washing Machine Problems

Mubasherin Sayed
Washing machines are mechanical devices, like any other appliance, which need regular maintenance. Here's a sneak peek into the most common problems in washing machines and their diagnosis.
Washing machines consist of various components to carry out different functions like washing, rinsing, spinning, drying, and many more. But, it is an electrical device constructed by combining electrical components which may be subject to damage or breaking down.
If the problem is severe, it is necessary to call in the professionals and experts, because rectifying the problem yourself would not be an easy task. Here are some of the problems that are most likely to be found in a washing machine.

It Won't Spin

This happens if you stuff too many clothes at one time. Remove some clothes out and then try the spin cycle again with a lesser number of clothes. The other reasons can be a broken lid, faulty switch and the tab on the lid, broken or loose belt, or control problem.

It Won't Drain

This may happen if the water pump is clogged, the belt is loose, or the drainage hose is kinked. You can replace the belt or call an appliance repair person to deal with this problem.

It Won't Fill With Water

You might face this problem with clogged inlets, faulty timers, lid switch, or the water level switch, which is located in the control panel with a clear tube attached to it (with the VOM on RX1). Examine the three terminals and all the optional pairings to see whether you are getting a 0 reading on one and infinity reading on the others.

It Doesn't Run

Recheck if the washing machine is plugged in. If it is plugged in and still does not work, then check the outlet with the VOM for the voltage and the power cord (if it is damaged). If all the devices are fine, then the lid switch or timer may have a problem.

It Leaks

The leakage might take place due to damaged hoses or loose connections. Check the water pump in case of a leakage.

It Does Not Agitate

Check the lid switch, belt, timer, or bad transmission (spin solenoid). There is a possibility that some piece of cloth must have got wrapped around the agitator resulting in this problem.

It Makes Noise

This may be due to unbalanced/heavy load. Do not stuff too many clothes in the machine. Remove some of the clothes and try again. If the problem does not get solved, then there might be a bad transmission or the agitator might be broken. Call the home appliances repair person to get it repaired.
The key is not to panic if your washer stops working or faces any problems. You can repair them at home if there is a minor problem, which it usually is. Otherwise call a repair person to do the job if you are unsure of the actual problem.