9 Powerful Tips For Common Washer and Dryer Issues

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When a washer or dryer breaks down, you don't need to resign yourself to the laundromat. Many washer and dryer issues can be easily fixed with a little know-how and quality replacement parts. Here are some simple solutions to the nine most common washer and dryer issues.

1. No Power

A lack of power to your machines can have multiple causes. Check your machine's outlet and circuit breaker to ensure that they are on and in working order. Have an electrician replace faulty outlets or breakers. An overheated motor will automatically shut off to allow it to cool down. This is not a problem if it happens once, but if your machine is routinely overheating, a professional should be called.

All washers and dryers have a lid switch that must be in place for the machine to work. Check your lid switch for debris, incorrect placement, and signs of damage. A lid switch replacement is easy and one of the most common household repairs. If all of these items are in good working order, have a professional take a look at your machine. A bad timer, thermostat, terminal block, or start switch may need to be replaced.

2. No Spinning or Tumbling

If your machine is turning on but not spinning, check the belts. Reposition belts that have slipped out of place and replace worn or broken belts. If the belt seems to be fine, you may have a motor problem. A motor that has seized up will buzz or hum before shutting off. If your motor seems like it is seizing up, it is time to call a professional.

3. Dancing Machines

If your washer or dryer is dancing across the floor, something is out of balance. If your washing machine is the one doing the jig, an unbalanced load may be to blame. Open your washer and adjust the load to make it more balanced. Both washers and dryers will shimmy if the floor underneath them is uneven. You can compensate for an uneven floor by adjusting the machine feet or by using plywood to level the flooring under the machine.

4. Excessive Noise

A foreign object or clog is often to blame for a noisy washer. A partially clogged drain line will make a gurgling sound. A clicking noise when the machine drains usually indicates a foreign object in the drain line. A simple cleaning of the drain should quiet things down.

If your dryer is making noise, check the drum seal, as it can fail over time. Replacing your drum seal is a relatively easy fix that will eliminate excessive noise. A washer or dryer motor that makes a loud humming noise is probably going to need to be replaced.

5. Washer Isn't Draining

Soggy, water-logged clothes are a result of faulty drainage. Before inspecting the machine, trying running another rinse cycle first. If you have a habit of using too much detergent, the extra suds can prevent proper drainage. A second rinse can clear the suds and get your machine running again.

If excessive suds are not the problem, check on the drain hose and pump. Check the main drain hose, drain pump hoses, and inlets for clogs and foreign objects such as coins or small toys. If you work through all of these parts and find no clogs, kinks or foreign objects, it is time to call a professional.

6. Washing Machine is Leaking Water

Many times, a leaky washer can be fixed with minimal or no tools. For front-loading washers, remove any built-up residue from the door seal to ensure a watertight closure. A leaky washing machine is often a result of loose or damaged hoses. Check both the drain and fill hoses to ensure that they are in good condition, free of clogs, and properly attached to the washing machine. If your hoses check out, look at the water inlet valve. Replace your water-inlet valve if it is full of sediment or appears to be faulty in any way.

Check your dispenser area and the steel parts of your machine for corrosion from liquid chlorine bleach. Holes in your washer's tub can be temporarily sealed with epoxy, but ultimately you will need to replace the washer. Other culprits include a faulty drain pump or leaking main tub seal.

7. Odd Smells

A washing machine should never smell. If you notice musty or odd odors coming from your machine, mold or bacteria is to blame. A few simple maintenance steps can help your machine stay odor-free. Clean your washer monthly, following the manufacturer's instructions for your machine. Cut back on your detergent and fabric softener to prevent a build-up of residue in your machine. It is also a good idea to drain your washer pump filter once a month. Check your filter for any foreign objects and signs of wear. Replace your washer pump filter if necessary.

8. Incomplete Washing Cycles

Washers that run too long or not long enough usually suffer from a faulty timer. Open up the machine's control panel and look for any signs of damage to the timer contacts. A new timer is easy to install.

9. Heat Issues in Dryer

If your clothes aren't getting dry, the first thing to check is airflow. Make sure you have allowed for the proper amount of space behind the dryer and check for clogs/kinks in the exhaust line. Parts that may cause a dryer to turn but not heat include the thermal fuse, temperature switch, thermostat, heating coils, and timer. With the proper tools and replacement parts, these are easily replaced. A dryer that is getting too hot can be a serious fire hazard. After allowing your dryer to cool, clean out all of your lint traps and dryer vent to ensure proper airflow. If your dryer is still running too hot, you may need to replace the thermostat or heating coils.

If you have a problem with your washer or dryer, following this list can help you determine the core issue. Repairing your washer and dryer requires patience, the right tools, and quality replacement parts. Automatic Appliance Parts carries high-quality parts for all of the major appliance brands, including uncommon OEM parts. No matter where you live in the United States, you can get your replacement parts from Automatic Appliance Parts in three days or less. Check out their easy-to-use online catalog today.