Out of the dozens of issues that you can face with a washing machine, your machine spinning extremely slowly (or not spinning at all) is concerning, if not frustrating.
There are plenty of reasons for this type of problem to occur.
Even though this is a common problem, the ways to resolve it can be difficult.
That’s why we have dedicated a blog post to explain the problem and solutions a little bit better.
Let’s begin.
Why does my washing machine not spin at all?
Every washing machine undergoes a spinning cycle, which is basically a complete process to clean your clothes from start to finish.
Your washing machine functions are all interlinked to form a washing machine cycle.
It’s important to understand that when your washing machine stops spinning, it can occur because a function within the cycle has malfunctioned.
For example, if your machine cannot drain properly, it will also not spin for safety purposes.
To begin with, make sure that your washing machine filter is clean as well as the hoses located at the rear of the machine.
If the problem persists upon checking the above, you may need an expert to investigate the problem further, as it can be a problem with your motor or drive belt.
Why does my washing machine spin slowly?
In certain cases, your washing machine will keep spinning. However, these spin cycles will be slower than usual and won’t be effective in cleaning your clothes properly.
Your washing machine may be spinning slowly for several reasons, such as:
- Too much weight inside the drum.
- The load within the drum is unbalanced.
- Or, a faulty component.
When loading your washing machine, ensure that you stick to the drum capacity.
While doing this, ensure that the load is evenly distributed inside of the drum.
If the problem still persists, you may need an expert to investigate the problem further, as you may have a faulty motor, worn-out carbon brushes or a faulty control board.
Why does my washing machine spin so loudly?
One of the most common problems with washing machines is loud noises during the spin cycles.
This can happen due to many reasons, such as…
- Most commonly, your washing machine drum bearings have failed when you hear loud rumbling noises during the spin cycles. This can be costly to repair. However, it may be worth doing depending on the age of your appliance.
- Secondly, you may have a faulty motor. If your motor is faulty, it may cause loud noises during the spin cycle or worse, it can begin to smoke which can cause a fire hazard.
- If you’ve recently replaced the carbon brushes on your motor, it can cause loud noises during the spin cycles. When your carbon brushes are brand new, they need a few washing machine cycles to set into place. You will notice with usage, the noise will slowly decrease and eventually stop.
- More uncommonly, your washing machine may not be property balanced. Fixing this is simple – ensure all four legs are levelled. You can use a tool such as a “Bubble Level” to ensure that the machine is properly balanced.
Common Faults & Solutions For Spinning Problems
Now that we have explored the basic outline of the problem you may be facing, let’s dive a little bit deeper into what may be giving your washing machine spinning problems.
Reason 1: Overloading
One of the most common reasons for a washing machine not spinning properly is overloading.
When you cram too many clothes into the drum, it puts excessive strain on the motor and can prevent the machine from spinning as it should.
Solution: Try reducing the size of your loads. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity to ensure smooth spinning and avoid putting too much stress on the machine. As a general rule of thumb, always load a little bit less than you might need to.
Reason 2: Unbalanced Load
Another culprit for a washing machine’s sluggish spinning is an unbalanced load.
Unevenly distributed clothes can cause the drum to wobble, triggering the machine’s safety mechanisms to slow down or stop the spinning altogether.
Solution: Before starting a cycle, distribute your laundry evenly in the drum. Large items like blankets or comforters should be arranged to balance the load and prevent the machine from getting off-kilter.
Reason 3: Worn or Broken Drive Belt
The drive belt in your washing machine transfers power from the motor to the drum. Over time, this belt can wear out or break, leading to spinning issues.
Solution: Inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear, such as fraying or cracks. If you notice damage, it’s time to replace the belt.
Reason 4: Faulty Motor
When your motor malfunctions it can also cause your washing machine to spin slowly or not at all.
Issues like worn-out carbon brushes, a burnt-out motor, or electrical problems can hinder the motor’s performance.
Solution: If you suspect a problem with the motor, it’s best to call a professional technician. They can diagnose the issue accurately and recommend whether repair or replacement is necessary.
Reason 5: Clogged Drain Pump
When you have a clogged drain pump it can impede the draining of water from the machine, leading to spin cycle problems.
Accumulated debris like lint, coins, or small objects can block the pump and affect its efficiency.
Solution: Check the drain pump and remove any obstructions. Most washing machines have accessible pump filters or traps that can be cleaned out easily. Regularly cleaning these components can prevent future clogs and maintain optimal performance.
Reason 6: Faulty Lid Switch
For top-loading washing machines, a faulty lid switch can prevent the spin cycle from engaging. The lid switch serves as a safety mechanism to ensure the lid is securely closed before the machine spins.
This also applies to front-loading washing machines, where if your door cannot lock properly – the spin cycle will not start.
Solution: Test the lid switch by manually pressing it while the machine is running. If the spin cycle starts when you press the switch, it indicates a problem with the switch itself. Replace the lid switch to restore normal functionality. Regarding front-loading washing machines, ensure that your door handle is not wobbly or too loose.
When to call an expert?
If you have previous experience in DIY repairs around your property, this may be something you can fix yourself.
However, it will ultimately depend on the severity of the problem.
If you’re not confident, it’s always best to call an appliance repair expert to avoid further damage to your appliance (and prevent more costly repairs).
How much does this cost to fix?
Understanding the costs of fixing your washing machine is certainly important.
Whether your washing machine is not spinning at all, spinning slowly, or making loud noises during the spin cycles, you will need an expert to diagnose your appliance to find out exactly why the fault is occurring.
Typically, having your appliance diagnosed costs between £30 – £70.
Once the technician understands exactly why your appliance has this fault, it will typically cost you an extra £30 – £60 for the repair.
It’s important to note that if parts are required, they will be an additional fee above the standard service charges.
Conclusion
In this blog, we have explored the different reasons why your washing machine may not be spinning at all, spinning a bit slower than normal, or worse of all, spinning quite loudly.
If you’re still unsure about the problem, why not contact us directly and let us help you.
Alternatively, you can visit our blog page for more helpful advice on your everyday appliances.