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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Washer
  4. Washer not spinning

Whirlpool washer not spinning

Common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not spinning

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not spinning are a malfunctioning electronic control board, broken motor or a jammed door lock assembly.

  • 63%

    63% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the
    Motor

  • 11%

    11% of the time it's the
    Door Lock Assembly

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool washer

    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.


    Motor Replacement

    A broken washer motor will prevent the spin basket from rotating or agitating, and can also cause a variety of other issues that affect the washer’s ability to function properly. Signs that the motor is wearing out include unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or squealing sounds. The washer may also exhibit erratic spinning or agitation, with clothes not being properly rinsed or still soaking wet after the spin cycle. Additionally, a worn-out motor may lead to the washer not completing its cycles, stopping abruptly, or not starting at all. Burnt smells or overheating around the motor area can be indicative of internal problems. In some cases, visible damage to the motor itself may be apparent.

    Door Lock Assembly Replacement

    When a washer door lock assembly is jammed, you may encounter difficulty in opening or closing the washer door. The door may not latch properly, leading to issues in starting or completing a wash cycle. The washer might display an error code indicating a door lock problem. During operation, the door lock may make unusual clicking sounds or fail to engage, preventing the washer from starting. Additionally, if there is a malfunction, the door lock indicator light may not illuminate as expected. Users might notice water remaining in the drum even after the wash cycle has finished, indicating a potential problem with the door lock assembly preventing proper drainage.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool washer not spinning issue

    How is the not spinning problem fixed?

    Correcting most not spinning problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, motor or door lock assembly. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not spinning

    When the washer is not spinning it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

    What to look out for with a washer not spinning diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Common Issues and Solutions for Whirlpool Washers Not Spinning

    Whether you have an old Whirlpool washer not spinning or a new one, it can be a frustrating experience. This section explores common problems and solutions for various Whirlpool washer models, helping you diagnose and fix the issue efficiently.

    Whirlpool Cabrio Won't Spin

    If your Whirlpool Cabrio washer won't spin, you might notice that the drum isn't rotating during the spin cycle, and your clothes are still soaking wet at the end of the wash. Error codes may be displayed on the control panel, providing clues about the specific issue. This is a common problem, especially if your Whirlpool Cabrio washer is not spinning clothes dry. Listen for unusual sounds during the spin cycle, such as grinding or squealing, which can also indicate that your Whirlpool Cabrio does not spin properly.

    When your Whirlpool Cabrio washer won't spin, start by checking if there are any error codes displayed on the control panel. These codes can guide you to the specific malfunction, such as a problem with the electronic control board. Next, inspect the motor for any signs of wear or damage and ensure that the door lock assembly is properly engaging. A malfunctioning electronic control board, a worn-out motor, or a faulty door lock assembly are common reasons why a Whirlpool Cabrio washer won't spin.

    Whirlpool Washer Not Spinning Clothes Dry

    If your Whirlpool washer is not spinning clothes dry, you might notice that your laundry is still wet at the end of the cycle, despite the machine completing its operation. This can happen with both front load and top load washers. An unbalanced load is a common culprit, as it can prevent the drum from reaching its full spin speed. Additionally, a Whirlpool Cabrio washer that won't spin or a Whirlpool washer that doesn't spin at all may exhibit similar symptoms.

    To troubleshoot a Whirlpool washer not spinning clothes dry, start by redistributing the load in the drum to ensure it’s balanced. Next, check the drain pump for any obstructions that might be preventing proper drainage. Listening for unusual noises, such as grinding or humming, can also help identify motor problems. If these steps don't resolve the issue, further inspection may be needed to determine if a motor or control board fault is causing the problem. Similar issues can arise if a Whirlpool washer spin cycle is not working correctly.

    Whirlpool Top Load Washer Not Spinning Clothes Dry

    If your Whirlpool top load washer is not spinning clothes dry, you might find that your laundry remains damp after the wash cycle. This can be particularly frustrating and is often caused by issues similar to those in front load washers. The drum not spinning or spinning very slowly leads to wet clothes at the end of the cycle. If the Whirlpool washer spin cycle is not working, it could indicate deeper issues within the machine.

    To troubleshoot a Whirlpool top load washer not spinning clothes dry, start by checking the lid switch to ensure it’s engaging correctly, as a faulty switch can prevent the spin cycle from starting. Next, inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage, as this can affect the drum’s ability to spin. Ensure that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged, as blockages can impede proper drainage. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, further inspection may be needed to identify problems with the motor or control board. Addressing these components can often resolve issues where a Whirlpool washer's spin cycle is not functioning properly.

    Whirlpool Washer Ultimate Care II Not Spinning

    The Whirlpool Washer Ultimate Care II not spinning can be due to a defective electronic control board, motor issues, or a problematic door lock assembly. If your Whirlpool does not spin, verify that the control board is functioning correctly by checking for error codes. Inspect the motor and door lock assembly for any visible signs of damage or wear, and replace parts as necessary.

    Whirlpool Washer Will Not Spin and Drain

    If your Whirlpool washer will not spin and drain, there may be a problem with the drain pump, an obstruction in the drainage system, or an issue with the control board. Begin by checking the drain pump for any blockages and ensure that the drain hose is clear. If these components are working correctly, consider inspecting the electronic control board for faults.

    Additional Tips for Whirlpool Washers Not Spinning

    If your Whirlpool washer won’t spin, it may be due to a range of issues including a malfunctioning motor, control board, or door lock assembly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent such problems. If a Whirlpool washer doesn’t spin or if there are issues with the spin cycle not working, thorough diagnostics and proper maintenance are crucial.

    By understanding the common issues and solutions for a Whirlpool washer that won't spin, you can take appropriate action to resolve the problem and maintain the efficiency of your appliance. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and timely repairs are key to ensuring the longevity of your washer.

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    Repair Washer Resources

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Pressure Transducer Work?"
    5 min readDec. 05

    Learn how a pressure transducer works to detect water level in a washing machine.

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Top Load Washing Machine Work?"
    10 min readDec. 04

    Learn how a top-load washing machine works and how to use and maintain the washer.

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Mixing Valve Work?"
    6 min readNov. 26

    Learn how a mixing valve works to control water temperature in a washer.

    What's the Reason Behind My Washer Drum Being Loose and Banging Around image
    6 min readNov. 18

    Learn why your washer drum is loose and banging around and get professional advice on fixing it. Contact Sears Home Services for a reliable repair service.

    Glossary Terms

    Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

    A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

    A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

    Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.

    Additional possible Whirlpool washer symptoms you may experience