What to do if your washing machine starts to act up? You can either call the service company and wait a few days for an expensive repair job, or, if you are handy with tools, you can use our Washing Machine Repair Guide to fix the machine yourself.

This repair guide is offered for informational purposes only. We can give you ideas about how to fix your washing machine, but because of the differences from manufacturer to manufacturer we cannot guarantee your problem will be covered here.

Still, this guide is educational and will give you a better understanding of how your washing machine works. And with that understanding you are better equipped to attempt your own repairs, or to talk intelligently with the service company if someone comes to fix your washing machine.

ATTENTION: Washing machines use electricity and water! This can be a deadly combination, so be sure to read our safety guide before attempting any of your own repairs.

Problem #1 - Leaks

Washing machine leaks can be either internal or external. External leaks are commonly caused by loose hose connections, so that is the first thing you should look for when you washing machine appears to be leaking.

Another external problem is a backed-up drain which is forcing water backwards to the washing machine.

Internal Leaks are more difficult to repair and involve removing the external panels of the washing machine. Disconnect the power connection before doing this.

Start with a visual inspection for obvious signs of water leaking or collecting. If there is nothing obvious, touch the various components (with the electricity off!) feeling for dampness. 

The most common sources of leaks are the pump, the water injector, or the tub. If you can't feel or see any leaks you should try to run a short cycle with the panels off to locate the source. Remember, this has to be strictly visual. No hands or any other objects must touch the inside of the washing machine while it is running.

Another source of leaks that will be revealed with this visual inspection is a water sloshing problem, where the water escapes over the side of the tub and falls onto the floor. If this is the case you need to replace the gasket around the top of the tub.

Problem #2 - Spinner doesn't work or is slow

The spin cycle will stop when the washing machine lid is opened, so if your washer does not spin at all then the first thing you should check is the switch that is operated by the lid. When you close the lid is the switch closed? There may be a tab to activate the switch or it may be activated by the hinge motion of the lid.

Access the switch by taking off the top panel of the washing machine. You will be able to see the type of mechanism and whether or not it is being switched by the action of the lid. If the mechanical action seems correct, use a voltage meter to see if it actually functions. If not, replace it.

Other possible causes include worn belts. These are usually found on older machines, as the new machines usually use a direct drive mechanism for the spin function. If yours is a fairly new machine, you may be looking at the direct drive coupler. If none of these is the source of the problem the spin cycle solenoid or timer may need to be replaced. 

Problem #3 - No agitation but spins OK

If the washing machine fills with water but does not agitate the first thing to check is the drive mechanism on the agitator. Depending on the brand of washing machine you may be looking for a worn drive belt or dog cam set. If the agitator wobbles when it is turned by hand the dog cam set needs to be replace.

Other possible mechanical causes behind agitator failure include worn transmission mode levers or an obstructed or disconnected air tube which connects to the pressure switch.

Electrical problems such caused by bad contacts are also possible. Test the pressure switches and timer contacts. Certain machines will switch off when the lid is lifted, so you can also check the lid switch if you have this type of machine.