How To Fix A Washing Machine Does Not Spin

How to Fix A Washer That Does Not Spin

If your washing machine doesn't spin, there are a few things you can do to check and fix it, like the drive belt, carbon brushes, and the washer motor. As part of your Tenancy Agreement, undertaking minor repairs and maintenance to the property includes checking why your washer does not spin and if it's any of these three, fixing it. 

You may think that checking and fixing a washer that does not spin seems like too much trouble but in fact, it is simple to do. Of course, you can call a contractor to do it but this will likely cost £80 upwards. 

The video and the processes below are general guides for checking and fixing your washer when it does not spin.

Three Common Causes Why Your Washer Does Not Spin

Drive Belt

The drive belt is located around the periphery of the drum. It is usually made of rubber and reinforced with cords of Kevlar or other synthetic materials. 

Over time, the drive belt can become frayed or even break. To check whether the drive belt is the problem, first disconnect the power to your washing machine. Then, remove the access panel of your washer so you can see the inside. Once you've done that, inspect the drive belt for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, fraying, or missing chunks. 

If it looks damaged, you'll need to order a replacement from your washer's manufacturer. To replace your washer's drive belt: 

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet, remove the water mains valve and adjust the drain hose so it is not stretched out when you access the back of the washer. 
2. Remove the back panel of the washer so you can gain access to the belt.
3. Remove the old drive belt by taking off the belt cover (if there is one) and removing it altogether from the machine drum pulley and the motor pulley. 
4. Put on the new drive belt, and use zip ties to attach it to the drum and motor pulleys. Then, carefully turn the motor pulley to align the new belt and allow it to settle into the groove. 
5. Then, tightening your grip on the belt, start turning your drum pulley. It will be more difficult to turn the drum pulley as the belt stretches so be careful. Once done, cut the zip ties. 
6. Reattach the belt cover and back access panel. Reconnect the water mains and return the drain hose to its position behind the washer. 
7. Close the lid of your washer and plug it back into the power outlet. Turn on the water supply valves and try running a cycle to see if your washer works properly now.

Carbon Brushes

The carbon brushes are located on the armature on side of the motor. They conduct electricity to create a magnetic field that makes the motor run. 

Over time, they can wear down and need to be replaced. To check whether the carbon brushes are the problem, first, disconnect the power to your washing machine. Then, remove the back panel so you can access the motor. 

Once done, inspect the brushes for wear and tear. If they look damaged, you'll need to order new ones from your washer's manufacturer and replace them by following these steps: 

1. Please make sure that you have switched your washer off at the mains before starting your repair. Unplugging your appliance is an important safety measure that will protect you from injury. If you are unsure of how to safely unplug your washer, please consult a qualified electrician. Once your washer is unplugged, you can proceed with your repair. Thank you for taking the time to ensure your safety.

2. In order to gain access to the washer's motor, you will need to disconnect any hoses and remove the back panel from the machine. Once the rear panel is removed, the motor will be located underneath the washer's drum. On some models, you might not need to remove the motor to be able to remove the carbon brushes. With the motor removed, you will be able to replace the carbon brushes as needed.

3. The carbon brushes are usually held in by screws on either side of the brush and go into a commutator at an angle, so they have one end that's angled. To make sure you're putting them correctly turn your motor upside down with its wires connected. Then, remove both connections from each individual brush while noting very carefully which way is facing up. We will need this information later when reassembling and putting back the washer. 

4. When you look at the new carbon brushes, you may see a clip or spring that is holding the brushes in the holder. This has to be released so the carbon pops out before fitting into the washer motor. It is essential to fit the carbon brush the same way it came off, due to the angle of the brush. A good tip is to push the brush onto the commutator, and underneath the brushes will usually be locating pegs that allow the brushes to connect to the correct position on the motor. You can then screw the brushes back in and reconnect the electrical connection. Remember to replace both carbon brushes, even if on a visual check one is more worn down than the other. 

5. Return the motor, making sure all the electrical connections are reattached, and the motor itself is screwed securely back in its place. Then, test by running a wash cycle to see if this has resolved the issue.

Washer Motor

The washer motor does not break down often but if it has burned out, you'll need a replacement. 

To remove and check the washer motor: 

1. Disconnect the power to your washing machine. 
2. Then, remove the back panel so you can access the motor. 
3. Unscrew the bolts that hold the motor in place and carefully lift it out. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from a friend or family member if you need it. 
4. Inspect it for signs of damage such as burnt wires or a charred exterior. If it looks damaged beyond repair, you'll need to order a new one from your washer's manufacturer. 
5. To replace the old motor with the new one, you will need to:
   1. Remove the wiring block and earth tag connected to the motor. 
   2. Attach the wiring, motor module and other electrical components that you pulled from the old motor onto the new one. 
   3. Once done, replace the new motor in its place in the washer, making sure the mounting bolts are secured tightly. 
   4. Then, test by running a wash cycle to see if this has resolved the issue.

Taking Care Of Your Washer To Give It Longer Service Life 

A washer that does not spin spells trouble. Fortunately, doing a check and fixing your washer (if it's any of these three problems) won't be a problem now that you have a guide to doing them. 

But if you find that checking and fixing a washer that does not spin has not been successful, please contact us on 02071508844 and we will be able to send out a contractor. However, if the repair needed falls under your responsibility as a tenant then you will be charged for the work. 

Reminder That You May Be Charged - Where our contractor has arranged a time with you to attend and you postpone, cancel, or don't show up or where it is your fault for the appointment not proceeding you will be responsible for paying the call-out charge for the contractor and potentially any restocking fee for parts. Where the fault, issue or damage, is put down to your or other tenants, permitted occupiers, or guests' actions, you will be responsible for paying for the repair. These terms are already part of your Tenancy Agreement.