Fixing a washing machine can be a challenging prospect. The home user can take some steps to fix a washing machine, but replacing washing machine parts or more advanced repairs should be handled by a professional.
Does the Washing Machine Have Power?
When fixing a washing machine, the first step is to determine if there's power flowing to the machine. Does the machine turn on at all? If not, is it plugged in? Is the circuit or fuses blown, and is the circuit breaker functional? Try plugging something else into the outlet to see if it works. Resolving power issues is one of the easiest washing machine fixes.
Always Disable the Power
If you've determined that power isn't an issue, disable the power before moving or opening the washing machine. Either turn off the circuit or unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs. Be sure to connect the washing machine back to its power source after repairs are completed.
Check the Filter Screens
Turn off the water going to your washing machine from the wall. Disconnect the hoses from the inlet valves on the back of the machine, and run the hoses into a bucket or tub. Turn on the water to check for adequate water pressure and functionality. If the wall source is functional, check the filters in the hoses and the inlet valves on the washer. Clear any debris in the filter screens, but be careful not to damage the filters in the inlet valves, as they are not removable.
Test the Water Level Switch
The water level switch is a plastic tube that runs from the control panel to the bottom of the outer tub in your washer. Check the tube for any damage, including kinks or breaks in the tube. If the tube is damaged, you'll need to replace it. If there's water in the tube, there may be a problem with the switch and it may need to be replaced.
Look for a Balanced Load
If the load in the washing machine is unbalanced, the agitator may not spin, or the machine may wobble or even move across the floor. Redistribute clothes in the washer if the load seems unbalanced. Also, if the washer wobbles too much, adjusting the feet on the bottom of the machine to hold it steady can make a big difference in performance.
Hire a Professional to Replace Parts
When it's not a simple matter of cleaning filters, balancing the load or balancing the machine, you might need professional assistance with your washing machine repair. Replacing most washing machine parts isn't a task that should be undertaken by the average do-it-yourselfer.
However, if you can't or won't hire a professional, you can find step-by-step instructions on replacing many washing machine parts online. Do a Web search for your specific washing machine model, and you may be able to find detailed instructions for your advanced repair.
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