Maytag Washer Not Spinning? Here’s What to Do

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AtoZ
January 10, 2023
Washer Repair

Are you having issues with your Maytag washer not spinning properly? You’re not alone. This common problem can be easily fixed if you know the right steps to take. From simple troubleshooting techniques like adjusting the wash cycle to more advanced solutions, this blog post will provide helpful information and tips for resolving any spin cycle problems with your Maytag washing machine quickly and safely.

Read on for our step-by-step guide on how to diagnose and fix an uncooperative spin cycle!

Make sure the settings are correct for the type of load you are washing

One of the most common errors with washing machines is using the incorrect spin cycle for a particular load of laundry, resulting in the machine not spinning. 

To prevent this from happening, it’s important to pay attention to what type of fabric you are washing and adjust the setting accordingly; delicate items will require a low spin cycle, while heavier items can handle a higher speed. If you find that your washing machine won’t spin even though everything appears to be aligned correctly, it may be helpful to reset the settings and try again.

The drum may be overloaded

Every washing machine has a capacity and the drum’s spinning motion will stop when overloaded or unbalanced.  

If the drum contains too many clothes or even one bulky garment, such as a heavy blanket, this can stress the drive motor and prevent it from spinning. It’s important to be mindful of how much is loaded into the machine, as overloading it will prevent it from spinning and lead to expensive repairs.

Overloading the drum can cause damage over time due to excess strain on the motor and imbalance of the load in the drum – which can be dangerous and expensive to repair.

Additionally, if there is an off-balance or over-packed load, your clothes may come out dirtier than they went in due to shifting of clothes and inadequate cleaning. Make sure to keep loads moderate and balanced for a quick and efficient cycle.

The door latch is defective

A defective door latch is the most likely cause when a washing machine fails to spin properly. 

The latch is an important safety feature in all washing machines, as it keeps the door closed while the drum is spinning. If the latch is not engaged correctly or can’t be shut at all, the machine won’t run through its entire cycle, leaving your damp clothes behind.

If you suspect that a faulty door latch on your washing machine is preventing it from spinning properly, it’s best to have a qualified technician look at the issue, as the repair is quite extensive.

The lid switch assembly may be faulty

A washing machine that won’t spin is a common problem that can usually be traced back to the lid switch assembly. This assembly is comprised of several parts, and it’s responsible for telling the machine when its lid is closed and that it can start an agitator or spinning cycle.

Because this part moves every time the lid opens and closes, it’s possible that one of its components has moved out of position or become defective, in which case it will fail to make contact and won’t be able to send a signal. When this happens, washing machines will sometimes hear the signal as “close” even if the lid is open, giving way to either no spinning or intermittent spinning depending on how much pressure you place on the lid.

If your washer isn’t spinning properly, check to see if there are any loose parts on your washing machine lid and make sure everything looks as it should. You can also test the lid switch assembly with a multimeter.

Having a qualified technician replace a defective lid switch assembly should solve the issue, but if not, further diagnosis may be necessary.

The drive belt may be damaged

A washing machine won’t spin if there’s an issue with the drive belt. The drive belt attaches the drum motor to the rotating parts of the washing machine, so if it becomes separated, broken, or stretched out, a spinning cycle won’t start.

If your washing machine is not spinning, it could be a sign that your drive belt needs to be replaced. If this is the case, contact a repair technician who can assess and repair your washing machine’s drive belt.

Alternatively, you can inspect and replace the belt yourself:

  1. Unplug the washing machine.
  2. Remove the rear panel of your washing machine. The belt will be clearly visible on two pulleys next to the drum. If it is damaged or worn in any way, you will need to purchase a replacement.
  3. The belt can be simply twisted off, and the new one installed in the same way. Just make sure the new belt is smooth and the pulleys turn easily.

The motor coupling may have failed

The motor coupling connects the motor and the transmission in a washing machine and is subject to wear or damage over time; if it fails, there could be an issue with the spin cycle of your washing machine. 

If you experience difficulty initiating the spin cycle and have exhausted the above options, troubleshooting should start by checking for a failed motor coupling.

Often, checking for this problem requires opening up the housing of the machine – if you are not comfortable doing this yourself, then it is best to call in a professional who can inspect and replace the failed part for you.

Summary

These are some of the most common reasons your washing machine might not be spinning. Be sure to check the simpler solutions before you call for repairs – something as simple as rearranging your laundry can do the trick!

Give the professionals a call if you try the simple steps and your Maytag washing machine still won’t spin. They can help find exactly what is wrong with your machine and get your laundry back to spinning dry in no time.

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