Whirlpool Washer Not Spinning? Troubleshooting Guide & Easy Fixes

A Whirlpool washer that refuses to spin can be incredibly frustrating, leaving your clothes sopping wet and your laundry routine in disarray. Before you call a repair technician, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to identify the cause and potentially fix the issue yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through common reasons why your Whirlpool washer might not be spinning and provide detailed, step-by-step instructions to get it back in working order.

Understanding the Spin Cycle

Before we delve into troubleshooting, let’s briefly understand how a spin cycle works. During this phase, the washer’s motor accelerates the drum to high speeds, using centrifugal force to extract water from your clothes. Several components work in harmony to make this happen, including the motor, drive belt, clutch, lid switch, and drain system. If any of these components malfunction, it can lead to a no-spin issue.

Common Reasons Why Your Whirlpool Washer Isn’t Spinning

Here are some of the most common reasons why your Whirlpool washer might fail to spin:

• Unbalanced Load: An uneven distribution of clothes inside the drum can prevent the spin cycle from engaging.
• Lid Switch Malfunction: The lid switch is a safety mechanism that prevents the washer from spinning when the lid is open. If it’s faulty, the spin cycle won’t initiate.
• Drainage Issues: If the washer cannot drain the water properly, it won’t proceed to the spin cycle.
• Motor Problems: The motor is the powerhouse of the spin cycle, and a failing motor can cause the drum to not spin.
• Drive Belt Problems: A broken or slipping drive belt, which connects the motor to the drum, can hinder the spin action.
• Clutch Issues: The clutch engages the drum for the spin cycle. If it’s worn or broken, the drum may not rotate.
• Control Board Issues: A malfunctioning control board can disrupt the signals sent to various components, preventing the spin cycle.
• Timer Issues: If your machine has an electromechanical timer rather than a digital control board, a timer malfunction can also cause problems.

Troubleshooting Steps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s go through the steps to identify and potentially fix the problem:

Step 1: Check for an Unbalanced Load

This is the simplest fix, and often the most common culprit. An unbalanced load occurs when the clothes are clumped on one side of the drum.

Instructions:

1. Stop the Washer: If the machine is running, press the “Pause/Cancel” button or turn it off.
2. Open the Lid: Carefully open the washer lid.
3. Rearrange the Clothes: Remove the wet clothes and try to redistribute them more evenly within the drum. Avoid overloading the machine, ensure the clothes are loosely placed, and not packed. Try to balance heavy and light items.
4. Close the Lid: Close the lid firmly.
5. Restart the Spin Cycle: Select the appropriate spin cycle option, or use the drain and spin option if available and press start.
6. Observe: See if the washer starts spinning. If it does, great! If not, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Check the Lid Switch

The lid switch is a safety feature that prevents the washer from spinning while the lid is open. A faulty switch can prevent the spin cycle from engaging.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Always unplug your washer before attempting any repairs or inspections. This is a safety measure to avoid electric shocks.
2. Locate the Lid Switch: The lid switch is usually located behind the access panel or near the lid hinge. You might need a screwdriver to access it. Consult your washer’s manual for specific location details.
3. Inspect the Switch: Look for any physical damage, loose connections, or broken parts. Sometimes the plastic of the switch can break or become bent which will not engage the switch mechanism.
4. Test the Switch: If you have a multimeter, you can test for continuity. Set the multimeter to test continuity and touch the probes to the switch terminals (Refer to your manual or search online for wiring diagram). With the lid open it should show no continuity, with the lid closed it should show continuity, indicating the switch is working. If it does not provide these readings, the switch needs to be replaced. If you do not have a multimeter or are not comfortable using one, visually inspect the switch for damage. A broken or cracked switch should be replaced.
5. Replace the Switch (If Necessary): If the switch is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. You can find replacement lid switches for your model online or at appliance parts stores. Ensure to purchase the correct switch for your specific Whirlpool model. Take photos of the wiring connections before removing the old switch. Then disconnect the old switch, install the new switch, and reattach the wires in the correct order. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, a qualified appliance repair technician should perform this task.
6. Test the Washer: Plug in the washer and try a spin cycle. If the issue was the lid switch, the washer should now spin.

Step 3: Inspect for Drainage Issues

If the washer isn’t draining correctly, it won’t proceed to the spin cycle. The washer needs to be empty of water before spinning.

Instructions:

1. Check the Drain Hose: Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked, clogged, or blocked. The hose should be securely connected to the back of the washing machine and to the drain pipe. Straighten any kinks or bends in the hose.
2. Clear Blockages: Disconnect the hose from both the washer and the drain pipe. Inspect the inside for any clogs – hair, lint, small objects, etc. Use a flexible wire or a plumber’s snake to dislodge any blockages.
3. Inspect the Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump has a filter that can catch debris and cause blockages. Refer to your washer’s manual to locate the filter (usually located near the bottom front of the machine). Be ready with a towel and container as some water may spill. Carefully unscrew and remove the filter. Clean any lint, debris, or obstructions, then reinstall the filter. Ensure the seal on the filter is in good condition and does not require replacing.
4. Test the Drain Cycle: Reconnect the drain hose. Start the washer and select a drain cycle only. Observe the water draining to ensure the pump is working correctly and the water is draining at a good rate. If the pump seems to be having difficulty pumping water the pump may need replacing.
5. Test the Spin Cycle: If the drainage problem has been resolved, try a spin cycle. If the issue was with the drainage, the washer should spin now.

Step 4: Examine the Drive Belt

The drive belt transfers power from the motor to the drum. A worn or broken belt can cause the spin cycle to fail. This step will require you to access the motor and drive components of the machine. For your safety make sure the machine is unplugged before attempting this procedure.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Ensure the washer is completely unplugged from the power source for your safety.
2. Access the Drive System: The location of the motor and belt vary, but it’s commonly located behind the back access panel. Refer to your washer’s manual for specifics. You may need a screwdriver to remove the access panel screws.
3. Inspect the Drive Belt: Once you’ve accessed the belt, check for damage. Look for cracks, fraying, slipping, or a complete break. Make sure the belt is still properly tensioned. It should feel firm, but should still be slightly pliable. A belt that is loose may need adjusting, a belt with cracks, fraying or breakage, will need replacing.
4. Replace the Drive Belt (If Needed): If the belt is damaged, you will need to replace it. Note how the old belt is routed around the pulleys of the motor and the drum. Take a photo of the belt routing for reference. Loosen the motor slightly to allow the old belt to be removed. Install the new belt, ensuring it is correctly positioned on both pulleys and correctly tensioned. You may need to readjust the motor position slightly to tension the belt correctly. You should be able to push on the center of the belt with your finger, it should move by approximately half an inch, if the tension is correct.
5. Reassemble the Washer: Secure the access panel back on the machine, ensuring all screws are tightened.
6. Test the Washer: Plug in the washer and try a spin cycle. If the drive belt was the issue, the washer should now spin.

Step 5: Check the Motor

If the drive belt is fine, the issue might be with the motor itself. Motors can fail over time due to wear or internal damage.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Ensure the machine is disconnected from the power source.
2. Access the Motor: You will need to open up the washing machine to access the motor compartment, usually located behind the lower rear access panel. Consult your washer’s manual for specific access instructions.
3. Visually Inspect the Motor: Visually inspect the motor for signs of damage, burnt wires, or broken components. Look closely for any unusual damage.
4. Smell Test: Sniff the motor for a burnt smell, which could indicate that the motor windings have failed.
5. Test with a Multimeter (If possible): If you are comfortable using a multimeter and are knowledgeable about electrical testing, use the multimeter set to OHMS. Check for continuity between the motor windings (refer to the wiring diagram for which pins to test). If any of the windings show no continuity or show a very low resistance reading (near zero), the motor has failed. Please be aware that the motor can still be damaged even if the windings show the correct readings.
6. Consider Professional Help: Testing the motor can be tricky without specific knowledge of washer motors, if you suspect motor problems, it is advisable to consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Replacing a motor can be expensive and may not be a DIY project for some.

Step 6: Examine the Clutch

The clutch engages the drum for the spin cycle. If it’s worn or broken, the drum may not rotate.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Always unplug your washer from the power source before conducting this procedure.
2. Access the Clutch: The clutch is typically located underneath the washer near the motor and transmission. You may need to tilt the machine to access it or remove the machine housing/access panels, refer to your machine manual for detailed access instructions.
3. Inspect the Clutch: Visually inspect the clutch for damage. Look for broken or cracked plastic components, worn or slipping surfaces. Often a broken clutch can have a distinct plastic snapping sound which indicates the clutch mechanism has been damaged. Some clutch components cannot be directly inspected and must be examined for correct operation through observation.
4. Test the Clutch: Some clutch assemblies can be physically tested by applying force and resistance. Refer to your machine manual and parts diagrams for specific instructions. Many clutches do not have easy testing options and will require to be inspected for visible damage.
5. Replace the Clutch: If the clutch appears to be worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Note how the old clutch assembly is attached before disconnecting it. Install the new clutch ensuring all components are correctly placed and attached, reassemble the machine and then test the spin cycle.

Step 7: Check the Control Board

A malfunctioning control board can disrupt the signals sent to various components, preventing the spin cycle. Control boards are complex electronic components and difficult to troubleshoot without specialized knowledge. It is best to consult with a qualified appliance technician if you suspect problems with the control board.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Ensure the power cord is disconnected from the power source.
2. Access the Control Board: The control board is typically located behind the front control panel or near the motor compartment, but it can vary between Whirlpool models. Refer to your washer’s manual for specific location and access instructions.
3. Visual Inspection: Visually inspect the control board for any signs of burning, loose wires, damaged capacitors or other components. Any visible damage is a strong indicator that the control board needs replacing.
4. Testing: Testing a control board requires specialized knowledge and electrical testing equipment. If you do not have the required expertise, seek the help of a qualified appliance technician.
5. Replace the Control Board: Replacing a control board is a complex task requiring expertise. If you are confident in your repair abilities, ensure you purchase a replacement control board matching your washer’s make and model. Take photos before disconnecting the old board so you can reattach the wires in the correct positions. It is advisable to let a technician carry out this task.

Step 8: Check the Timer (Older Models)

If your Whirlpool washer is an older model with an electromechanical timer (rather than a digital control board), a faulty timer can also cause a no-spin issue.

Instructions:

1. Unplug the Washer: Ensure the machine is unplugged before proceeding with any inspection.
2. Access the Timer: The timer is usually located behind the control panel. Refer to your washer’s manual for access instructions.
3. Visual Inspection: Visually inspect the timer for burnt components or damaged/loose wires.
4. Test the Timer: Testing electromechanical timers is difficult, and requires specialized knowledge of mechanical timing devices and electronic testing. If you are not familiar with this technology, seek professional help from a qualified appliance repair technician.
5. Replace the Timer: If you suspect a timer problem, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. Take careful note of the wiring connections before disconnecting the old timer, so you can correctly wire in the replacement part.

When to Call a Professional

While many issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, some problems require a professional. Consider calling a qualified appliance technician if:

• You’re not comfortable performing electrical or mechanical repairs.
• You’ve tried the above steps and your washer still isn’t spinning.
• You suspect complex issues, such as problems with the motor, control board or timer.
• You are unsure of the correct procedure or don’t have the necessary tools.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Spin Cycle Issues

Here are some preventative measures to help avoid future issues:

• Don’t Overload the Washer: Avoid stuffing too many clothes into the drum. Always adhere to the recommended load capacity stated in your washer manual.
• Distribute Clothes Evenly: Load your clothes in a balanced manner. Avoid large clumps of clothes in one side of the drum.
• Clean the Lint Filter Regularly: A clogged lint filter can affect drainage and cause spin cycle problems.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check the drain hose for clogs and kinks and clear or repair as required.
• Avoid Washing Small Items Unprotected: Small socks or other small items may work their way into the pump or other areas of the washer and may cause damage or blockages. Place such items inside a mesh bag to prevent this.
• Maintain your Machine: Carry out regular cleaning and maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer in your machine manual.

Conclusion

A Whirlpool washer that refuses to spin can be a major inconvenience, but by following this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, you can often pinpoint the cause and implement a fix yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety by unplugging your washer before any inspection or repair. If you’re unsure about any step, seek the help of a qualified appliance technician. By being proactive with maintenance and understanding the common issues, you can keep your Whirlpool washer running smoothly for years to come.