Washer Repair in 2024 Made Easy

When your washer is down for the count and laundry is piling up, what should you do -- call a repair service, fix it yourself or replace the washing machine? You’ll need to make the right decision fast.

Repairing a washer can be an easy task if you approach it systematically.

Try Troubleshooting First

Basic troubleshooting can often fix many washing machine problems quickly and easily. Spend a few minutes following the steps described in your owner’s manual when something goes wrong.

Here are some examples of basic troubleshooting that can fix common washer problems.

Washer Has No Power

Finding your washer unresponsive can be alarming. First, ensure that the power cord is securely connected to the wall outlet. Then, take a moment to check and reset the circuit breaker, if needed. It's often the simplest solutions, like these, that swiftly bring your washer back to life.

If resetting the breaker didn’t fix the problem, check the wall outlet for power. Plug a small lamp or appliance into the wall outlet to see if the outlet works. If the electrical outlet has power, try resetting the electronic control board in your washer (if it has an electronic control):

1. Unplug the washer to completely disconnect power.
2. Leave the washer unplugged for 3 minutes to reset the electronic controls in the washer.
3. Plug the power cord back into the outlet to restore power.

If the control lights up, then a locked up control board prevented the washer from working. The washer may work normally after resetting the control in this manner.

If the control panel remains dark or your model lacks electronic controls, it's time to call in the experts. [Scheduling a visit from a service technician] (/repair/washer-repair-service) can quickly turn a frustrating situation into a resolved one.

Washer Won’t Fill

When your washer refuses to fill, a few simple checks can often identify the issue. This common problem has several potential causes, from closed water valves to clogged inlet screens. By following the steps, you can quickly identify and, in some cases, resolve the issue yourself.

1. Verify Faucet Positions: Ensure the water fill faucets behind the washer are fully opened.
2. Inspect Fill Hoses: Shut off the faucets, disconnect the fill hoses from the washer, and test for water flow by directing the hoses into a bucket.
3. Examine Inlet Screens: If water flows freely through the hoses, inspect the washer’s inlet water screens for deposits or debris that might block water flow.
4. Consult a Professional: Should you discover deposits blocking the screens, it's best to have a service technician address this to prevent potential flooding caused by improperly seated water valves.

While it's tempting to tackle screen cleaning on your own, such endeavors can unexpectedly lead to complications, including the risk of flooding. Should your washer still be thirsty for water after your initial detective work, it may hint at deeper mysteries within, such as a rebellious door/lid switch or a water valve assembly plotting mischief. In these moments, calling for professional reinforcements isn't just wise—it's essential.

Washing Machine Won’t Drain

Several straightforward steps can help identify and potentially resolve the issue if the washer won't drain. This common problem may stem from easily correctable issues like hose blockages or more complex internal malfunctions.

• Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the drain hose for any kinks, twists, or clogs that could impede water flow.
• Check the House Drain: Ensure there's no backup in the house drain system connected to your washer, as this can also prevent proper draining.
• Secure the Lid: For top-loading washers, verify that the lid is fully closed. Many models are designed to halt draining and spinning with an open lid for safety.

If these steps don't fix the draining issue, the cause may be more technical, requiring a pro. In top-loaders, a malfunctioning lid switch might be the culprit, preventing the machine's progression to the drain and spin cycles. Issues such as a defective timer or a failed drive motor can affect both top-loading and front-loading machines. Front-loaders might also have problems related to the electronic control board or the motor control board.

When It's Time for Professional Repair Service

When basic troubleshooting described in the owner’s manual doesn’t help you fix a problem, you’ll typically need to schedule service to repair the washer.

How to Choose the Right Service Provider to Fix Your Washer

Choosing the right partner for your washing machine repair is crucial. Why not turn to a name you can trust? At Sears Home Services, we're proud to be America’s only nationwide appliance repair service, boasting a team of over 2,500 seasoned technicians ready to spring into action—right in your own backyard.Our technicians are highly trained in washer repair and experienced in servicing all major brands including Kenmore, Frigidaire, GE, Samsung, LG and Whirlpool. Sears Technicians average over 10 years of experience in the washer repair field.

Here are additional advantages of choosing Sears Home Services for washer repair:

• Reliable service. Sears Technicians follow strict, standard procedures for accurately completing appliance repairs. Structured diagnostic techniques used nationwide by Sears provide a logical approach to troubleshooting. Instead of guessing what might be wrong with an appliance, technicians follow a standard testing sequence to pinpoint the root causes of appliance failures. We fix appliance problems right so you don’t have to call us back for a follow-up visit.

• Efficient work. Proven diagnostic procedures save Sears Technicians time. They can quickly identify problems and determine if the appliance can be fixed right away or if replacement parts are needed. This reduces the time that you’re without your appliance.

• Cost-effective fixes. Proven and accurate diagnostics reduce the chances of misdiagnosis, leading to unnecessary repairs or part replacements. This saves money because you’re not paying for unneeded parts and repair procedures.

Easy access to quality washer replacement parts. Sears Home Services Technicians always use OEM (original equipment manufacturers’) parts when available to fix appliance problems. OEM parts are more dependable, fit properly and last longer than most aftermarket appliance parts. Our technicians carry a wide assortment of common washer parts in their repair vehicle so they can complete many washer repairs during the first visit.

You’ll appreciate seeing a Sears Home Services Technician who can quickly and accurately diagnose and fix washer problems when you set up repair through us. We provide the most reliable washing machine service in the country.

Setting Up Washer Repair Service

Getting your washer repair scheduled with Sears Home Services couldn't be simpler. Just a few clicks in our online scheduler, and you're on your way to setting up an in-home service that fits your schedule. And guess what? In many areas, we're ready to swing by with same-day or next-day appointments. Convenience at its best, right?

Knowing When It's Time to Replace the Washer

When you have a washer that’s over 10 years old and a repair will likely be expensive (such as replacing a motor), you’ll typically need to replace the washer instead of repairing it.

To seamlessly replace your washer, visit our Sears.com Upgrade page to conveniently select a new washer and get help with special financing.

We’ve consolidated all help, financing offers and savings into one location on our Upgrade page to make it easy for you to replace your appliances now. No hassles and no waiting.

Sears carries a wide selection of washers from top brands like Kenmore, GE, Samsung and LG. Get your new home appliances right away.

Using this systematic approach to washer repair will help you quickly resolve any problem that arises. Sears Home Services is here to help you efficiently manage any type of washing machine failure.