Washing machines do a lot of work, and that hard work can wear them down. Fortunately, most common problems can be solved by homeowners with some basic tools.
If these troubleshooting steps don’t help, it’s time to call in an appliance repair professional. Or, you can purchase a new washing machine.
Top-Loading Washing Machine
Top-loading washers usually cost less than front-loaders and require less maintenance. Still, they’re prone to the same issues as any other appliance.
If your washer is leaking or making loud clunking or screeching noises, the problem likely lies with the motor and belts. It’s possible to repair this type of problem yourself if you have the mechanical know-how, but a professional is a better choice if your washer starts emitting foul odors, has mold or mildew or won’t turn on at all.
A clogged water inlet valve or filter is another common issue that requires quick attention. A DIYer can often untwist the corrugated tube that leads to the pump and pull out the clog using pliers.
Washer
A washer is a complicated gizmo that operates on special timing cycles and contains motors to spin the tub, drain water and control water temperature. Older models have mechanical timers and dials, while newer ones feature electronic controls and diagnostic tests you can interpret from the manufacturer’s website or owner’s manual.
The first thing to do is to make sure the washer is plugged in and receiving electrical power. Check the receptacle it’s plugged into with a working lamp and appliance or voltage tester. Also make sure the lid switch is seated correctly.
Pump
A broken pump can throw a major wrench in your washer’s 5 essential operations: filling, washing, draining, rinsing and spinning. Repairing a pump can cost $150 to $500 for professionals to complete.
Fortunately, fixing a pump yourself can save you money and extend the life of your machine. Here’s how:
First, remove the wire harness at the left edge of the opening. Then loosen the clamp holding the hose to the bottom of the pump and pull it away (have a towel ready for any water spilt). This will reveal the broken pump, which you can then remove by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
Drum
A dropped washing machine drum is one of the more serious problems you can experience with your washer. This is a problem that requires a professional to repair.
The main issue with this is that the suspension springs and dampeners break down due to wear and tear. This can cause the tub to drop from the base or suspend it from the top.
Another thing to check for is a snubber ring that offers a cushion for the washing machine tub and protects it from hitting the metal base. This can also wear out and result in vibrations during a spin cycle. If this is the case, a pro should replace it as soon as possible.
Motor
The motor on your washer can burn out or develop a fault that prevents it from starting a cycle. Repairing the motor costs an average of $300.
If your washer won’t start, check that it has power and that its circuit breaker isn’t tripped. If it does have power, you may need to reset the machine’s motor by following the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular brand of washer.
A Kenmore washing machine will cost an average of $100 to $300 to fix if it malfunctions. Issues with the agitator or noisy operation could indicate the need to replace the bearings. You might also need to replace the pump belt or three retaining screws.
Belt
Belts are supposed to last a long time, but something usually happens that causes them to break or need replacing. It could be a loose article of clothing wedged between the tub and drum, an overloaded cycle or even a burned out motor.
Locate the belt and inspect it for signs of burnt rubber, cracking or glazing. If it’s damaged, replace it with a belt made for the exact washer model, if available, from an appliance parts store. It’s a relatively easy repair job for most homemakers. Ensure the new belt is properly fitted to the pulleys. The flat side with the grooves fits on the drum pulley, and the end that wraps around the motor pulley.
