Troubleshooting Tips For Your Washing Machine

Your washing machine is perhaps your most critical home appliance, and when it stops working you want to get it back up and running as quickly as possible. When that washing machine starts acting up you could call a plumber, but that can be quite a costly solution. Fortunately some of the most common washing machine problems are also the easiest to fix, and that means you could save hundreds of dollars just by learning to troubleshoot your own washing machine.

Washing Machine Not Filling

One of the most frustrating problems is when the washing machine simply will not fill with water. When this happens the most obvious place to start is the water line itself. First check to make sure the water is flowing, then make sure there is sufficient water pressure. If the water supply and the water pressure are both good the next things to check are the filler hose and the valve. If the filler hose is blocked or the valve is stuck in a closed or half open position this could cause the washer not to fill. If this is the problem simply unblocking the hose or reseating the valve should solve the problem.

Washer Will Not Start

If the washer simply will not turn on there could be a problem with the circuit breaker or the electrical outlet. To see whether or not electricity is flowing simply plug another appliance into the electrical outlet to see if power is flowing. If not you may need to trip the breaker or repair the electrical outlet. If the washing machine still refuses to start you will probably need to call an appliance repair person.

Washing Machine Not Draining

If the washing machine does not drain properly after doing a load of laundry the most obvious problem is a kink or twist in the drain hose. Simply check the hose and reseat it if necessary. Also check to make sure that the host is not fitted too tightly to the drain pipe. There has to be some airflow between the hose and the pipe in order for it to function properly.

Agitator Not Working

If the agitator in the washing machine is not working the problem could be a worn belt, or simply that there are clothes stuck around the belt. If the washing machine is filling with water but not agitating the clothes carefully feel around the agitator to make sure no clothes are wrapped around it. If this does not solve the problem you may need to repair or replace the belt. If you are the handy type you may be able to do the job yourself. Otherwise you will need to contact an appliance repair person.

Knowing how to diagnose and solve these common problems can save you a lot of money and a lot of trouble. While some washing machine problems do require the intervention of a plumber or an appliance repair person, others can be easily solved on your own. Knowing which problem is which will help you get that washer back up and running in no time.