We Fix, You Save
1. When to stop using your washing machine?
2. Washing machine won’t start?
3. Washing machine won’t drain?
4. Washing machine won’t spin?
5. If it stops halfway through a cycle
6. Strange noises and electrical trips
7. What you shouldn’t try yourself?
8. When to call an engineer
9. Repair or replace?
10. Need help with your washing machine?
11. FAQs
Some washing machine problems aren’t suitable for DIY troubleshooting.
Stop using the machine if you notice:
If there’s smoke or a fire, get everyone to safety and call 999.
If water has reached electrical connections, don’t put yourself at risk trying to unplug the machine. Get professional help.
If the machine is completely unresponsive, start with the simple things.
Make sure the plug is properly connected and the wall socket is switched on. If you’re unsure whether the socket is working, you can test it with another suitable appliance. If the washing machine has caused the electrics to trip, don’t keep resetting them if they trip again.
The door needs to close properly before most washing machines will start.
Check that:
Don’t force the door if it feels stuck.
If you see a padlock or key symbol, the child lock or control lock may be active. The way to switch it off varies between models, so check your manual rather than trying random button combinations.
Make sure you’ve actually selected a programme and pressed Start/Pause. Also check that a delay-start setting hasn’t been activated accidentally. If the machine still behaves as though the door isn’t closed, the door lock or another component may need professional attention.
If there’s water sitting in the drum, the machine may not move on to the spin cycle.
Start with the parts you can safely see.
Look behind the washing machine for obvious kinks, crushing or damage to the drain hose. If the machine drains through a sink connection, check the visible connection for an obvious blockage. Don’t start dismantling the plumbing unless you know exactly what you’re doing.
Many washing machines allow the owner to clean the pump filter, but check your manual first because the location and procedure vary between models.
If your model allows it:
If the filter and hose are clear but the machine still won’t drain, don’t start taking the machine apart. The pump or another part of the drainage system may need professional attention.
Don’t force the door open while the drum is full of water.
If the wash has finished but your clothes are still soaking wet, check these things first:
This is one of the first things to check. A machine that hasn’t drained properly may not move into the spin cycle.
A single heavy item, such as a large towel or bulky garment, can make it difficult for the machine to balance the drum.
Redistribute the load and try again if appropriate.
If the drum is packed too tightly, the clothes may not be able to move freely during the spin cycle.
Some programmes use a lower spin speed or hold the laundry in water.
Check the programme and spin-speed settings.
Using too much detergent can create excess foam and interfere with the wash cycle on some machines.
Follow the detergent and dosage guidance for your appliance.
If the machine is moving or shaking excessively, check that it is standing securely and level.
If it was recently installed, also check the installation instructions regarding transit bolts.
If the drum won’t turn at all, don’t force it. It may need an engineer to diagnose the underlying fault.
A washing machine that won’t spin doesn’t automatically mean the motor needs replacing.
Sometimes a washing machine may pause during a cycle because it is heating water, draining or trying to balance the load.
If it appears to have stopped for an unusually long time, check:
If the machine repeatedly stops at the same point in a cycle, it’s worth getting it checked rather than repeatedly restarting it.
If an error code appears, make a note of it or take a photo. The meaning of error codes varies between brands and models, so check your manual or the manufacturer’s guidance.
Some noise is normal during washing and spinning.
You may hear water entering the machine, the pump running or the door lock engaging.
However, loud banging, grinding or metallic scraping isn’t something to ignore.
Heavy shaking can sometimes be related to an unbalanced load, an overloaded machine or the appliance not sitting properly on the floor. If the machine has only recently been installed, check that the installation was completed correctly.
If the noise is sudden, severe or accompanied by a burning smell, stop using the machine and arrange a professional check.
Don’t keep switching it back on and hoping it will work.
Electrical trips can have different causes, including problems with components such as the heating element, motor or wiring, or water reaching an electrical part. The cause usually can’t be identified safely without appropriate testing.
If the washing machine is causing the problem, leave it switched off and get it checked.
If your household electrics continue to trip even when the washing machine is disconnected, you may need an electrician rather than an appliance engineer.
There are some things better left to a qualified professional.
Avoid:
The aim of these checks is to identify simple, visible problems not to carry out an internal repair yourself.
It’s time to get professional help if:
When arranging a repair, it helps to have the make, model, error code and a description of what happened ready.
A photo of an error display can also be useful.
A washing machine that stops working doesn’t automatically need replacing.
There isn’t one universal age or repair-cost percentage that tells you when replacement is the right choice. Consider:
If the machine is relatively new, check your rights with the retailer before paying for a repair.
If you’re renting, check your tenancy agreement or speak to your landlord or letting agent before arranging work.
If you’ve worked through the basic checks and your washing machine still won’t start, drain or spin, Fix That Appliance can help diagnose and repair washing machine faults in Birmingham and surrounding areas.
And if repairing the machine no longer makes sense, replacement is another option. Through BuyThatAppliance, you can browse replacement appliances, with installation available where applicable.
The important thing is to find the right solution for the appliance and your situation whether that’s a repair, replacement or installation.
WE FIX YOU SAVE
Services
Useful Links
Need an appliance repair? Call 07985 493190
Developed by First Pixel Studio
No products in the cart.