When an appliance breaks down, finding a good repair service can be difficult. Many companies specialize in only one type of appliance, and some brands require technicians to be brand-certified.
Fortunately, there are some simple things homeowners can do to fix common problems with their appliances. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
1. The Pump is Clogged
Washer pumps have a tendency to clog and will need to be replaced. This may be due to a blockage in the hose or an electronic fault. If the clog is in the drain hose, it can usually be easily cleared by simply disconnecting the hose and cleaning it out. Often times, socks or other small items will become lodged in the hose and cause this issue.
If the clog is in the pump itself, you will need to remove the filter and clean it out with hot water. It is recommended that this is done every three months or when you notice it is clogged. Some washer models include a coin trap or pump filter that screens out foreign objects, such as buttons, coins, and hair, and prevents them from clogging the hose. Repair Clinic stocks a wide range of replacement washer parts, including drain pumps, hoses, and coin trap filters to fit the most popular brands of top-load and front-load washers.
2. The Belt is Broken
The belt is in charge of physically moving the washer tub around, so if it breaks or slips off its pulleys, you won’t be able to get your laundry clean. It’s a pretty common problem and, luckily, it’s fairly easy to fix.
If you hear a squealing sound coming from your washer during spinning, it’s probably time to replace the belt. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that can save you the cost of buying and installing a new washer.
First, make sure your washing machine is cool by flipping the breaker and disconnecting the power cord. Next, grab a couple towels to lay on the floor and a friend to help you tip the washer over to gain access to the underside. Before starting, be sure you have the correct replacement belt for your washer model and a couple tools like Phillips and flat head screwdrivers and a wrench set. Also, take a photo of the old belt assembly before you begin to reference it as you work.
3. The Washer is Moving Excessively
When a stacked washer moves or vibrates excessively, it’s important to inspect and repair any issues quickly. With regular maintenance and prompt repair, you can ensure a stable laundry process with minimal movement and vibration.
One of the most common reasons that a washing machine moves is because it’s unbalanced. If you suspect this is the case, pause the washer and re-distribute the laundry evenly before starting again.
Another cause of a shaking washer is that the floor underneath it is uneven. If this is the case, place a sheet of plywood under the washer to reduce movement and vibration.
Finally, a shaky washer could be a sign that the suspension rods have broken. These are used to dampen the movement of the tub and should be inspected and replaced as necessary. This is a job that’s best left to professionals with the knowledge and tools to do it properly.
4. The Washer is Making Noise
If you hear your washer making a sound that sounds like it is swaying side to side, this could indicate that the load size and distribution are out of balance. This can be remedied by taking out a few items and evenly distributing the remaining items before each wash.
If your washer is producing a squealing sound, this means that the tub bearings and the drive pulley are wearing out and need to be replaced. Often, the cause of this is frequent overloading of the washing machine, as this puts a strain on these parts.
Another common reason for squealing noises during the spin cycle is that the agitator dogs are slipping due to wear. These need to be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage and further noise. To test whether this is the problem, turn off the machine and manually rotate the drum by hand. If this makes the sound disappear, the agitator dogs or drive pulley need to be replaced.washer repair
