Top 5 Common Causes & How to Fix Them
Is your washing machine not spinning properly or stopping mid cycle? You’re not alone. This is a common issue that many homeowners face, but the good news is that it can often be fixed with a few simple steps. At Strathclyde Domestic Repairs, we help customers across Glasgow and Central Scotland each month with washing machine repairs. In this post, we’ll walk you through the five most common reasons your washing machine might not be spinning and how to fix them.
1. Unbalanced or Overloaded Drum: A Common Cause of Washing Machine Not Spinning
Problem: One of the most common causes of a washing machine not spinning is an unbalanced or overloaded drum. When the drum is overloaded, the washer may not be able to properly balance the load, which prevents it from spinning effectively. The washing machine’s safety mechanism may also prevent it from spinning to avoid further damage to the machine or your clothes.
Quick Fix: Try removing a few items from the load and redistributing the clothes evenly around the drum. Run the spin cycle again to see if the issue is resolved. If the problem persists, check if the washer is on a level surface, as uneven flooring can cause balance issues.
Tip: To avoid future problems, try not to overload the machine. A good rule of thumb is to leave some space at the top of the drum when loading.
2. Lid or Door Switch Fault
Problem: If the lid or door switch is faulty or not fully engaged, the washing machine will not begin or complete the spin cycle. This is a safety feature designed to ensure the door is securely closed before spinning begins. If there is an issue with the switch, the machine will stop to prevent any accidents.
Quick Fix: Check to see if the door or lid is closing properly. The door should click securely into place. If it doesn’t, the switch might be damaged and need replacing. Sometimes, the door seal could be causing resistance, so ensure it’s clean and intact.
Tip: If you’re unable to fix the door switch yourself, this is a job that may require professional assistance.
3. Worn or Broken Drive Belt: How It Affects Washing Machine Spinning
Problem: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum, enabling the drum to spin during the wash cycle. Over time, the belt can become worn, frayed, or even snap, which will prevent the drum from spinning.
Quick Fix: Replacing a worn or broken drive belt is not something that can usually be done by the average homeowner, as it requires disassembling the machine. Contact a professional technician to inspect and replace the drive belt if necessary.
Tip: Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the drive belt. If your washing machine is older, it may be worth replacing the belt proactively to avoid future issues.
4. Drainage Issues
Problem: If your washing machine is unable to drain water properly, it will not spin. A blocked drain filter or pump failure could prevent water from draining out, causing the machine to stop mid-cycle. Without proper drainage, the washing machine’s spin cycle cannot be completed.
Quick Fix: Check the drain filter, which is typically located at the front of the machine, near the bottom. You may find small items like coins, lint, or even socks clogging the filter. Clean it out and try the spin cycle again. Additionally, inspect the drainage hose for any visible blockages that could be preventing water from flowing freely.
Tip: To avoid drainage problems in the future, be sure to clean the filter regularly and check for small objects in the drum before running a cycle.
5. Motor or Control Board Failure: When Your Washing Machine Won’t Spin
Problem: If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, there may be an underlying problem with the motor or control board. The motor drives the drum during the spin cycle, and if it’s malfunctioning, the drum won’t spin. A faulty control board could also fail to send the correct signals to the motor, preventing the spin cycle from starting.
Quick Fix: Diagnosing and repairing motor or control board issues can be complex and typically requires a professional technician. If you’ve ruled out all other possibilities, it’s time to call in an expert to inspect and repair the motor or control board.
Tip: If your washing machine is experiencing motor or control board issues, it may be more cost-effective to replace the machine, especially if it’s very old or out of warranty.
When to Call a Professional
While some of these issues can be fixed on your own, others especially those involving the motor, control board, or drive belt may require professional attention. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting, it’s best to call in an expert.
Strathclyde Domestic Repairs offers fast, reliable, and affordable washing machine repair services across Glasgow and the surrounding areas. Our team of experienced technicians can diagnose and repair most washing machine issues, from minor fixes to more complex motor and control board failures.
Why Choose Us?
Same-day or next-day repairs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Service for all major appliance brands
Local, experienced engineers
Reliable, fast, and affordable services
Areas We Cover:
Glasgow
East Kilbride
Paisley
Motherwell
Hamilton
Cumbernauld
Stirling
Falkirk