A washer that will not spin leaves a load of dripping clothes and usually one of five problems. Some you can check in a minute; some need a part.
This guide covers top-load and front-load washers and walks through the causes in the order a technician checks them.
Rule out the simple things first
- Unbalanced load. One heavy item, such as a bath mat or a pair of jeans, makes the washer refuse to spin to protect itself. Redistribute the load and run a rinse and spin.
- Drain problem. A washer will not spin while the tub is full of water. If water is still inside, the fault is the drain, not the spin. See our washer not draining guide.
- Cycle or setting. Delicate and hand-wash cycles spin slowly or not at all. Check the selected cycle.
Top-load washers
- Lid switch or lid lock. The washer will agitate but not spin if it thinks the lid is open. This is the most common top-load spin fault.
- Motor coupling. A small rubber and plastic coupling joins the motor to the transmission. When it breaks the washer agitates weakly or not at all and will not spin.
- Drive belt or clutch. On belt-driven models a worn belt slips under load; a worn clutch lets the motor run without turning the basket.
Front-load washers
- Door lock. If the door does not lock, the washer will not spin. A failed lock often also leaves the door locked at the end of the cycle.
- Drive belt. A snapped or slipped belt means the motor runs but the drum does not turn at speed.
- Motor, control board or speed sensor. Error codes such as LG LE, Samsung 3E or Whirlpool F7 point to the drive system.
When to call a technician
Call when the load is balanced, the tub drains and the washer still will not spin, or when it makes a loud noise during the spin attempt. Lid switches, locks, couplings and belts are inexpensive repairs that are worth doing on a washer of almost any age.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most about this problem.
Why does my washer spin slowly but not fast?
Usually a slipping belt, a worn clutch or an unbalanced load. On front-loaders a failing speed sensor or motor control can also limit spin speed.
Can I use the washer if it will not spin?
You can wring clothes by hand in a pinch, but repeated attempts can damage the motor or coupling. Have it diagnosed.
How much does a spin repair cost?
Lid switches, locks, couplings and belts are among the more affordable washer repairs. Our $75 diagnostic fee covers the inspection and diagnosis and is applied toward the approved repair.
Related services
Need a hand with it? Alliance Appliance Services diagnoses first and explains the repair before any work starts. Call (571) 303-8548 or request a repair online. We serve Springfield, Alexandria, Fairfax, Arlington and the surrounding Northern Virginia communities.