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Step-by-step guide: fixing a maytag washing machine that won’t spin

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of a Maytag washing machine and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix it when it refuses to spin.
  • A clogged drain pump can cause water to accumulate in the tub, preventing the machine from spinning.
  • The motor is the heart of the washing machine, responsible for powering the spin cycle.

Is your Maytag washing machine giving you a spinning headache? Don’t despair; tackling this issue can be a breeze with the right guidance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of a Maytag washing machine and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix it when it refuses to spin.

Identifying the Problem

Before diving into repairs, it’s crucial to pinpoint the root cause of your washing machine‘s spinning woes. Here are some common symptoms:

  • The washing machine doesn’t spin at all.
  • The washing machine spins intermittently.
  • The washing machine makes a loud noise when spinning.
  • The washing machine vibrates excessively when spinning.

Troubleshooting and Repairs

Once you’ve identified the problem, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Here are the most common issues and their solutions:

1. Faulty Lid Switch

A faulty lid switch prevents the washing machine from spinning for safety reasons. To check the lid switch:

  • Unplug the washing machine.
  • Use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity.
  • Replace the switch if it fails the test.

2. Clogged Drain Pump

A clogged drain pump can cause water to accumulate in the tub, preventing the machine from spinning. To clean the drain pump:

  • Unplug the washing machine.
  • Locate the drain pump at the bottom of the machine.
  • Remove the drain hose and clean out any debris.
  • Reconnect the drain hose and plug the machine back in.

3. Worn Drive Belt

A worn drive belt connects the motor to the transmission, enabling the spin cycle. To check the drive belt:

  • Unplug the washing machine.
  • Remove the back panel of the machine.
  • Inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Replace the belt if necessary.

4. Failed Motor

The motor is the heart of the washing machine, responsible for powering the spin cycle. To test the motor:

  • Unplug the washing machine.
  • Use a multimeter to test the motor for continuity.
  • Replace the motor if it fails the test.

5. Defective Transmission

The transmission transfers power from the motor to the spin basket. To check the transmission:

  • Unplug the washing machine.
  • Remove the back panel of the machine.
  • Inspect the transmission for any signs of damage or wear.
  • Replace the transmission if necessary.

6. Overloaded Washing Machine

Overloading the washing machine can put excessive strain on the motor and transmission, leading to spinning problems. To prevent this:

  • Avoid overloading the washing machine.
  • Use the appropriate cycle for the load size.

7. Unbalanced Load

An unbalanced load can cause the washing machine to vibrate excessively and prevent spinning. To prevent this:

  • Distribute the clothes evenly in the tub.
  • Use the “balance” or “auto balance” feature on your washing machine.

Wrapping Up

Fixing a Maytag washing machine that won’t spin can be a challenging task, but with the right know-how, it’s achievable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can diagnose and resolve the issue, restoring your washing machine to its spinning glory.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Why is my Maytag washing machine making a loud noise when spinning?
A: This could be due to a worn drive belt, a faulty motor, or an unbalanced load.

Q: How often should I clean my Maytag washing machine‘s drain pump?
A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump every few months to prevent clogs.

Q: Can I replace the motor in my Maytag washing machine myself?
A: While it’s possible, replacing the motor requires advanced electrical skills. It’s advisable to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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