Washer Repair: Common Problems and Solutions

It's the middle of laundry day and your washer just stops working. Now what? Most people don't know how to fix common washing machine problems. Since it is one of the most used appliance in your home, when it stops working, it can be extremely frustrating and cause huge headaches. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common washer problems and how to repair them without the need to call an appliance repair service. Unfortunately in some cases, the fix can be complicated and best handled by the professionals.

Washer Doesn't have Power

If your washer doesn't have power, there are a few things that could be the culprit. The first thing you want to check is the circuit breaker. If the breaker has tripped, simply flip it back on and see if that does the trick. If not, check to see if there is power going to the outlet by plugging something else in. If there is power, then the washer probably just needs a new fuse. A blown fuse will be black. You can typically find the fuse box in the control panel. Just remove the cover and replace the fuse with one that has the same amperage rating.

Bad Odor Coming

If you notice a bad odor coming from your washer, it is most likely due to mold or mildew. This can happen if you leave the door open after each use to allow it to air out. To get rid of the odor, first thing you need to do is get some hot water and scrub down the entire inside of the washing machine, making sure to break down the scum and grime that has accumulated. Then add 2 cups of bleach and run a cycle on the hottest setting possible. Most of the time, this should clear out that nasty smell.

If the odor persists, it is possible that there is something caught in the washer drain pump. This can usually be cleared by unplugging the power cord and removing the drain plug. Be sure to check for any objects that may have been washed down there as well. Once you've cleared whatever is causing the blockage, reattach the drain plug and again run a cycle with bleach at the hottest setting.

Water is not Draining

If your washer is not draining properly, it could be due to a few different things. First check and make sure that the drain hose isn't kinked or clogged. If it is, straighten it out and try running another cycle. If that doesn't work, then you most likely have something caught in the hose that prevents it from draining. You will need to detach the drain hose from the washer and check for any objects that may be blocking it. If you find something, remove it and then reattach the hose.

The last possibility is that the filter is clogged. The filter is usually located on the back of the machine and can be removed easily by unscrewing it. Clean out any debris that may be caught and screw the filter back on. If none of these tips fix the draining problem, then it would be best to call up your local service for washer repair.

Washer Doesn't Fill up with Water

A washer only has a set amount of time given to fill up with water before it shuts off. If it doesn't seem to be filling up with water, the first thing you will want to check is the water supply valves. These are usually located behind the washer and may need to be turned on all the way. If they are already on, then it's possible that there is a clog in one of the lines, similar to the draining problem above. Detach the water supply hoses and check for any clogs. If you find one, clear it and reattach the hose.

Another possibility again is a clogged filter on the inlet water supply. Do the same thing as with the drain hose and detach it from the washing machine, unscrew the filter and clean it real good to get any particles that may have been preventing the proper flow of water to your washer.

Washer is Loud

If your washer is making a loud noise, it could be due to a few different things. The bearings may need to be lubricated or the belt could be loose. The belt is typically behind the front panel or underneath the washer, which will need to be tipped to access it. To check on the belt, remove the front panel or tip the washing machine and locate the belt. See if it looks tight and in good condition. If not, you will need to replace it. As for the bearings, you can usually find a lubricant at your local hardware store that is made specifically for washing machines. Apply it according to the instructions and then run a cycle on delicate to test it out.

If neither of those solutions work, it could have been that you had some hard object, such as change or a belt, in that certain load that was bouncing off the sides causing a loud noise. Next time you run a load of clothes, make sure all clothes pockets are empty and see if the noise persists. If so, it may be time to call in an appliance repair company to take a look.

Washing Machine is Bouncing Around

If your washer is bouncing around, it could be due to a few different things. The first thing you want to check is the levelness. It should be sitting level on all four legs. If not, then adjust the legs until it is. There usually are some pegs at the bottom of the washer that can be twisted so you can slightly tweak the length of the legs. Another possibility is that something was unbalanced in that certain load, causing the washer to bounce around. Try to keep your loads balanced instead of loading up one side more than the other.

If the washer is level and you've checked the loads, but it's still bouncing, then something might be loose on the internals. At this point, messing around with the insides of the washing machine could cause even more damage if you don't know what you are doing. So this task is best left to a professional repair service.

Washer Door will not Open

If the washer door will not open, the most likely cause is that the washing machine is still full of water so the door lock is still engaged. Run another cycle and see if the water drains afterwards. If not, then see our tips above on why it may not be draining. If water is properly drained and the door still won't open, then the most likely cause is a problem with the door lock mechanism. There are many different issue that could cause this problem and most likely should be handled by an appliance repair company.

Conclusion

These are some of the most common washer problems and their solutions. Many of these problems than can occur are simple fixes that you can easily do yourself, even without any technical knowledge, while others are a little more complicated. Hopefully this was helpful and your washer is back up and running again in no time. But if not, don't hesitate to call in a professional appliance repair company to take a look. They will be able to fix the problem in no time so you can get back to doing your laundry as usual.