Common washing machine issues include problems with the drain hose, a dirty drain pump filter, an unbalanced load, the door seal, or a circuit breaker. Solve most issues with a quick maintenance check; otherwise, get help from a professional.

Getting stuck with washing machine error codes can be frustrating. Tub not spinning or draining? Door seal not working? We've all been there. But fret not; we look at five common washing machine issues in this blog, outlining

5 Common Washing Machine Issues + How to Fix Them

Many potential issues can prevent a high-quality washing machine from working properly, but these five stand out as the most common. Here’s how you can solve them before they get too complicated.

1. Washing Machine Won’t Start (Circuit Breaker and Lid Switch) 

If your washing machine won’t start, this could be due to a power supply issue, a faulty lid switch, a broken timer, or a control board malfunction. 

In this case, start by:

  1. Checking the outlet and power supply to see if there was a power failure. Ensure the plug hasn’t come out and that there’s power (check that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped from an overload).
  2. Next, make sure the lid or door is closed properly. If the door seal is faulty, the washer might not start. 
  3. If there are washing machine error codes, check the owner’s manual to discover what they mean. 
  4. If the problem isn’t easily solved, make a service call.

2. Washing Machine Won’t Drain (Drain Pump Filter)

Why is my washing machine not draining residual water? It could be because the drain pipe is clogged. You might have a defective drain pump, a kinked drain hose, or a broken lid switch. This often causes soiled water, which leads to a badly smelling washing machine.

Once a wash cycle has been completed, you’ll know if a machine isn’t draining if there’s a pool of water at the bottom of the basin. If the water is taking longer to drain than usual and there’s a periodic gurgling sound, this could mean a clog is developing.

Follow these troubleshooting steps: 

  1. Start by running drain cycles to see if the water drains and when it pools. 
  2. Then, inspect the drainage hose, making sure it’s connected and not kinked anywhere. 
  3. Clean the filter. This could prevent water from flowing through if a buildup or foreign objects block the path. 

You can also prevent odours by cleaning and maintaining these internal parts.

A person cleaning a tub of a front-loading washer tub with a washcloth

3. Washing Machine is Leaking Water (Hose Connections and Drain Hose 

Similarly, the washing machine could be leaking excess water onto the floor. This could be because of a missed cleaning, loose connections, a cracked tub or pump, or a damaged door seal.

Here’s what you should do:

  1. Drain water away from the appliance first. Most laundry rooms have a drain in the floor for leaks and spills when the machine isn’t draining properly. 
  2. Then, check hose connections. Check the hose and basin for cracks. In the case of damage, you’ll need professional repairs or replacement pieces. 
  3. Check the door seal as well.

4. Washing Machine is Shaking 

If you notice excessive noise and violent shaking during a wash cycle, take out the load and run an empty cycle. If the problem persists, you might have worn suspension rods or shock absorbers. A professional will need to replace damaged suspension pieces.

 

If the shaking and loud noises stop with an empty cycle, it was likely due to an unbalanced load. Rearranging the clothing should resolve the issue and spin properly. If you often have unbalanced loads, you might also need to level your washing machine if it’s not level with the ground.

5. Washing Machine Isn’t Spinning 

Why is my washing machine not spinning? This could be a more technical issue. This often happens when there’s a broken drive belt, a motor issue, a lid switch malfunction, or an unbalanced load.

A professional will need to check the belt and motor and make sure the lid switch is working, especially if there are any error codes to resolve.

A washer and dryer in a finished basement

Washing Machine Repair FAQs

Is it worth fixing an old washing machine, or should I buy a new one? 

If the repair costs more than 50% of the price of the new machine, a replacement is more cost-effective. If the washing machine is over eight years old, a new washing machine is likely a better investment.

Why does my washing machine smell bad? 

Bad smells from a washer usually come from mould, mildew or detergent buildup. These are typically found in the basin, the rubber door deal, or the detergent drawer. They’re avoidable with regular cleaning and maintenance. You can also run a hot water cycle with white vinegar to clean the washing machine. Remember to leave the door open between cycles to air it out.

What is the most common washing machine problem? 

The most common washing machine issue is when it stops draining properly. This is normally because the drain hose or pump is clogged. Solve this issue by cleaning the filter and ensuring the hose is clear of debris.

Summary: Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Issues

Most washing machine repairs are completed with simple maintenance, cleaning, or rearranging.

  • For a washing machine that won’t start, ensure the door is sealed properly and there’s power.
  • For a washing machine that won’t drain, ensure the filter is cleaned and the hoses are properly connected.
  • For a washing machine that’s leaking water, make sure the door is sealed properly and there aren’t any cracks.
  • For a shaking washing machine, rearrange the load. If the problem persists, call a professional.
  • For a washing machine that isn’t spinning despite the door being sealed and adequate power, call a professional for repairs.

Shop Reliable Washers and Dryers at Surplus Furniture 

If the time has come for a replacement washer and dryer, get our high-quality washer and dryer duo. Shopping Surplus Furniture isn’t just affordable; it’s also supporting Canadian brands and furnishing your home with the best. 

Visit any of our 30+ stores around the country and choose from washing machines at factory-direct prices.