Washing Machine Repair

Squeaking from your washing machine may indicate an easily resolved problem, such as something caught inside or a dirty valve screen. Or it could be a warning that your machine needs repair. If the machine is in good condition, a squeaking noise can often be repaired without a call to a technician.

New Machine

If your washing machine is new, the squeaking sound may be normal. Some manufacturers recommend that you allow your machine to work through an initial "break-in" period of about five complete wash cycles. The squeak should disappear on its own during this period. If the squeak develops in an older model, however, it may mean that a part is worn or broken.

Loose Objects in Tub

Hard objects such as pens, bra wires or buttons that get stuck in the washing machine tub can produce a squeaking noise as the machine runs. This type of sound would be most notable during the spin cycle. An object may be stuck beneath the agitator where you can't see it. Inspect the tub, and check the manufacturer's instructions for removing your washer's agitator. In most models, there is a bolt in the top of the agitator that must be removed; then, the top half can be lifted off. Remove the second bolt to remove the bottom portion, and you'll have a clear view of anything that might have slipped beneath the base.

Wash and Spin Cycle Squeaks

Some top-load washers use a direct-drive system, which means that the motor and transmission are connected by a coupler. This coupler is made of plastic and rubber and acts like a belt. Eventually it can wear and break, and this can result in a squeaking noise during the wash and spin cycles. In other models that don't use a direct drive system, a worn or dusty brake stator can cause a squeaking noise as your machine cycles. Typically, these problems won't affect the normal operation of the washing machine, but the noise can become quite loud, so replacing or repairing these parts is recommended.

Squeaks While Filling

Squeaks or squealing noises while your washer is filling can indicate that the water pressure is too high. Adjust your hot and cold water valves, and try to fill the machine again. If the noise decreases, then the water pressure of your home plumbing is too high. Contact a plumber to fix this.

Alternatively, it may be the water inlet valve screens that are causing the problem. To check these, unplug your machine and turn off the water supply to the valves. Remove the hoses from the back of your machine, and place them into a bucket. Where the hoses were connected to the machine is where you'll find the water valve. Inside these connections are the screens, which can usually be pried out gently with a flat-head screwdriver. If they're plastic, try to remove them with needle-nose pliers. If the screens are damaged, replace them. If they're just dirty, clean them with warm water, scrubbing away deposits with a soft toothbrush. Reinstall the screens, and attach the hoses once more. Turn the water on, and try to fill the machine again. If the valve was your problem, the squeak should be gone.

Sometimes the washing just won't start. This is a problem if you have a load of clothes ready to be washed, but it should be easy to fix without calling a technician.

Power

Be sure the washer is plugged into the electrical outlet in the wall. If it is, has it tripped a circuit breaker or blown a fuse? Check and reset the breaker (or replace the fuse) if necessary, then try to start the machine again. Also make sure that the door is properly closed.

Door Switch Strike (Front Load Washer)

The door switch is a safety feature on front loading washing machines. On front loaders, the door switch must be closed and the door must be locked. If this switch malfunctions, the washer won’t start. This switch is in the door frame of the washing machine where the door shuts. If the lights come on but the machine won’t start, this will probably be the cause. This could either be the wiring that runs to the door switch, or the door catch not activating the switch itself. In this instance, you will need to call in a technician to trace and repair the fault.

Lid Switch (Top Load Washer)

The main control for the washing machine is the switch activated when the lid is closed. It is located right underneath the top panel and is activated by a small lever extending through a special opening in the top panel when the lid is closed. If it is defective for some reason, your washer won’t start. It’s not especially difficult to troubleshoot this, however, you might have to open the top to access the lid switch. With the power on, depress the switch and listen for a click. If you don’t hear one, the switch has gone and will need to be replaced. If you do hear the click, investigate further by disconnecting one side of the switch and measuring across both switch terminals for continuity. This can be done with an ohmmeter or a multimeter set on Ohms (Ω).

If the lid switch works but the washing machine still won’t start, check to see if your washing machine has a special fuse inside the control panel for it. If the fuse is blown, replace it and try the washer to see if it works.

Start Switch and Timer (Top Load Washer)

The start switch timer on top load washers is part of the timer. This starting switch is turned on by pulling out the timer knob. If after pulling the timer knob the washer will not start, you can test it for continuity with a multimeter. Remove power from the washing machine and find the timer contacts. Some top loaders have a start switch that is a momentary contact type of switch. This switch will be located on the control panel. You can also test this switch for continuity with a multimeter while pushing the button in. Remove power from the washer before testing for continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the start switch and or timer.

Timer Knobs

Sometimes the timer knob wears out and cannot properly engage the timer shaft. If this is the case, then the knob is at fault. The knob cannot grip the shaft therefore is unable to turn the machine on. A worn knob will cause it to slip. Turn off power to the washer and inspect the back of the timer. Make sure the timer shaft engages the knob when it is pulled in or pushed out. If the knob is worn, replace it with a new one.

Overheating

If you’ve run several loads, one after another, without any problem but suddenly find your washing machine refuses to start, overheating could be the cause. The simple way to discover whether this is the problem is to give the machine ample time to cool down, say for a couple of hours, and then try it again. If it works fine, overheating was the case and it should not reoccur as long as you don’t do too many loads in too short of a time.

It is not normal, however, for the washer to behave this way. There is a cause to the overheating problem and it is bound to keep getting worse. So it is best at this time to seek the opinion of a technician.

Main Electric Control Board

The control board controls every component in your washer. If the main control board does not properly control the motor, the filling valve, the drain motor, or the door lock, the washer will not start. The only way to determine if the control board is at fault is to visually inspect it. Check for burned areas or any component on the board that may look burned or damaged. If you find burned areas or components on the control board, remove and replace it.

Summary

These are just some of the easier to fix problems that might prevent your washing from starting. If none of these fixes your issue or you decide it is too technical and want to get professional help, AK Appliance repair is available to help with Same Day Service - 7 Days A Week. Call (770) 394-4539.

A washing machine not draining is one of the most common problems we encounter. It can be caused by one of the following:

• The drain hose or pump is clogged with a small item of clothing, residual gunk or other debris.
• The washer is malfunctioning and not engaging the drain/spin cycle properly. It may present with an error code - check with your product manual or give the manufacturer a call to clarify what this refers to.
• The drain pump is broken (the washer will generally make an unpleasant sound and/or start leaking if this is the case).

Solutions

Reset your washing machine

• First, you should perform a general reset of the machine. Turn the machine off at the powerpoint, wait for one minute, and then turn it back on.
• If you see no change, you can try a Master Reset. This will reset all of the onboard componentry and is often successfully used by appliance technicians. Open and close the door of the washing machine 6 times within 12 seconds. Then, run the rinse/spin cycle without clothing to see if your problems are resolved. If it drains, problem solved!

Unclog the drain hose

• Disconnect the washing machine from the power by unplugging it from the wall outlet. You should always do this before moving the machine or making any adjustments.
• Check that the drain hose is not kinked or bent. This can affect the washer's draining and may be causing the error.
• Now, remove the drain hose from the back of the machine. This is usually attached with a couple of simple screws. You may need a hand to pull the washer from its spot to access the hose entry point.
• Run some water through the hose to force the clog out. An outdoor hose connection works well. You can also use a plumbing snake, stick or long object to push the clog or item out. If you aren’t able to easily remove the drain hose, run the hottest cycle on your machine without clothing, as this may loosen up the blockage and push it through.
• Once water is steadily running through the washer drain hose, re-attach it to your machine. To ensure your machine drains efficiently, make sure that the end of the hose is not more than 12cm into the drain hole, and that it’s not kinked or bent.

If none of these fixes your issue or you decide it is too technical and want to get professional help, AK Appliance repair is available to help with Same Day Service - 7 Days A Week. Call (770) 394-4539.

If a washing machine has lingering moisture, debris or residue, this creates a perfect environment for bacteria and mold growth. And that’s where nasty smells come from. This problem is most common with front loader washing machines because of the water-tight door seal which also prevents air circulation.

How to get rid of a bad washing machine smell

Sanitize and Deodorize

A basic washing machine clean involves running a cycle while the machine is empty, allowing water and cleaning solution to run through the nooks and crannies. Many modern machines also feature a dedicated Drum Clean cycle, or you can use a Hot Cycle as an alternative.

• Baking Soda - Dissolve one-quarter cup of baking soda in one-quarter cup of water and pour the solution into your machine's soap dispenser.
• Vinegar - Next, add two cups of plain white vinegar to your empty washing machine and run a hot cycle without the presence of any laundry. The combination of baking soda and vinegar is effective at dissolving grease, grime, and other residues that may be lurking in your washer.
• Commercial Washing Machine Cleaner - Peruse the laundry aisle at your favorite store and look for a washing machine cleaner that can be added to your laundry. The additional height of the water and abrasive action from a load of clothing or towels will aid the cleaning process.
• Elbow Grease - The rubber seal around the door of the machine is a common sight for mold and mildew. Use a clean, damp cloth and a mild detergent, or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean. Be sure to dry the gasket when finished with a second clean cloth and leave the door open to promote circulation.

How to prevent mold and bad smells in your washing machine

• Mold spores need one thing to flourish: dampness. A well-ventilated laundry room will ensure moisture does not linger. By the same token, keep the washing machine door and detergent dispenser drawer open for a short while after each use to allow any water residue to dry out.
• Make sure you use the right detergent for your type of washing machine, always follow the instructions on the box and measure out the correct amount of powder/liquid; when you use too much detergent and/or fabric softener that’s when you get residue.
• Always remove wet clothes immediately after a wash cycle has finished. A 'Delay End' feature really comes in handy here!
• Regularly clean out the pump filter and lint filter.
• Clean the detergent dispenser drawer and the washing machine every few weeks.

Sometimes you need to stop your washing machine in mid-cycle. Maybe you suddenly realize your wallet is in your pants pocket or you just want to add a garment to the wash load. It happens!

If you’ve got a top loader, this is an easy one to solve. Just open the lid and add/remove the item in question. No mess, no fuss.

In a front loader, things get a bit more complicated. Front load washers lock their doors during cycles to prevent water from spilling all over your laundry floor.

Solution

If you happen to forget to add clothing or need to remove clothing once you start the washer, most front load washers will let you add clothing within the 1 TO 5 MINUTE MARK of starting the wash cycle. Within 5 minutes of pressing the START button, simply press the START/PAUSE button to pause the washer and allow you to open the washing machine door and add more clothing. However once water has reached a certain level in the washer tub, you cannot open the washer door until end of cycle.

After 5 minutes a front load washer door is not able to be opened during a wash cycle when full of water because the tub is filled with water.

How To Pause Your Washing Machine To Add Or Remove Clothing

1. Within at least 5 minutes of pressing the START/WASH button, press the START/PAUSE button to unlock the washer door. (If the water temp or water level in the washer has reached a certain point, then the washer door will not open. The DOOR LOCK indicator symbol will blink. If this happens wait 1 or 2 minutes and the DOOR LOCK indicator blinking will stop)
2. Open the washing machine door once unlocked and add or remove any extra clothing.
3. After adding or removing clothing, close the washing machine door until it clicks into place.
4. Once the washing machine door is closed press the START/PAUSE button to resume the wash cycle.
5. To change a wash cycle at this point, simply press the START/PAUSE button and change to a different wash cycle. (If the wash cycle is changed, Water will drain out of the washer and the chosen wash cycle will begin)

If this doesn't work for your washing machine model and you want professional help, AK Appliance repair is available to help with Same Day Service - 7 Days A Week. Call (770) 394-4539.