Washing machines are essential household appliances, making laundry easier and more efficient. However, it can be frustrating when you load your clothes into your Whirlpool washer only to find they’re soaking wet after the cycle, all because it’s not spinning. If you’re dealing with a Whirlpool washer not spinning, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the most common causes and solutions, so you can get your washer back to doing what it does best.
Whether you have basic tools and some spare time, or you just want to understand what’s going on before calling in a professional, this article provides a detailed and easy-to-follow solution to get your washer spinning again.
Understanding the Problem: Why Your Whirlpool Washer Isn’t Spinning
When a Whirlpool washer doesn’t spin, several factors may be at play. The spin cycle helps wring out the water from clothes, so if this part of the cycle isn’t working, it leaves your laundry soaking wet. This can stem from mechanical issues, user-related errors, or even problems with components such as the belt, lid switch, or motor.
Let’s dive into the possible causes and step-by-step solutions you can try.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix a Whirlpool Washer Not Spinning
Step 1: Check for an Unbalanced Load
One of the most common reasons for a Whirlpool washer not spinning is an unbalanced load. Large, heavy items like blankets can cause the washer to become off-balance and stop spinning to prevent damage.
- Solution: Pause the cycle and redistribute the load evenly inside the drum. Remove excess items if the load is too large. Restart the cycle and check if the spin cycle resumes.
Step 2: Ensure the Lid is Closing Properly
Whirlpool washers are designed not to spin if the lid is open or if the lid switch is faulty. The lid switch is a safety mechanism that prevents the washer from operating while the lid is open.
- Solution: Inspect the lid to make sure it is fully closed. If the lid isn’t latching properly, there may be an issue with the latch or the lid switch itself. You can test the switch by listening for a click when you close the lid. If you don’t hear a click, the switch may need to be replaced.
Step 3: Examine the Drainage System
If your washer is unable to drain water properly, it won’t spin. A blocked drain hose or pump could be the cause.
- Solution: Check the drain hose for any clogs or kinks. Ensure that the hose is not obstructed and that water can flow freely. Next, inspect the drain pump for blockages. Disconnect the hose from the pump and remove any lint, fabric, or debris that may be causing the issue. Reattach the hose and test the washer to see if it spins.
Step 4: Inspect the Drive Belt
A worn or broken drive belt can prevent the drum from spinning. Over time, the belt can become loose or damaged.
- Solution: Unplug your washer and remove the back panel to locate the drive belt. Examine the belt for signs of wear or breakage. If it looks damaged, you will need to replace it. Simply loop the new belt around the drum and motor pulleys, ensuring it is tight and aligned.
Step 5: Test the Motor Coupling
The motor coupling connects the washer’s motor to the transmission, and if this part breaks, your washer won’t spin.
- Solution: Access the motor coupling by removing the washer’s back panel. Inspect it for any visible cracks or damage. If the motor coupling is broken, you can replace it with a new one from an appliance parts store. After installing the new coupling, test your washer to see if it resumes spinning.
Step 6: Reset the Control Board
Sometimes, a glitch in the control board can cause the washer to stop spinning. Resetting the control board might solve the issue.
- Solution: Unplug the washer for a few minutes to reset the control board. After a few minutes, plug the washer back in and restart the cycle. If the issue was due to a glitch, the washer should now spin.
FAQs
Why is my Whirlpool washer not spinning or draining?
A blocked drain pump or hose may be preventing the washer from draining, which can also stop it from spinning. Check both components for blockages.
Can an unbalanced load cause my Whirlpool washer to stop spinning?
Yes, if the load is unbalanced, your washer may pause the spin cycle to prevent damage. Redistribute your laundry evenly.
How do I know if the lid switch is faulty?
If you don’t hear a click when closing the lid or the washer doesn’t start the spin cycle with the lid closed, the switch may be faulty.
Is it safe to replace the drive belt myself?
Yes, as long as you disconnect the washer from the power source and follow proper safety measures, replacing the belt is a relatively straightforward task.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a Whirlpool washer not spinning can be frustrating, but many of the solutions are simple enough to troubleshoot at home. From unbalanced loads to more technical issues like the motor coupling or drive belt, you now have a comprehensive guide to help fix the problem.
Remember, if after trying these steps your washer is still not spinning, it may be time to reach out to a professional technician. Whirlpool Appliance Repair is here to help—whether it’s a quick fix or a more serious repair, we’ve got you covered. We also offer reliable Whirlpool dryer repairs.
Discover more now by reading our previous blog about Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly.