Whirlpool washer not spinning

A Whirlpool washer that won’t spin can be a frustrating issue, leaving you with soaking-wet laundry and an incomplete wash cycle. This problem can be caused by anything from an unbalanced load to a malfunctioning lid switch or a worn-out drive belt.

If your washer drum is not spinning correctly, it’s important to diagnose the issue quickly to prevent further damage. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common reasons why a Whirlpool washer won’t spin, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when to call a professional for help.

Key reasons for the problem:

50% of reported issues are the

Lid Switch Assembly

35% of reported issues are the

Drive Belt

13% of reported issues are the

Motor Coupling

2% of reported issues are the

All Other Causes

Diagnostic and troubleshooting steps

Is your Whirlpool washer refusing to spin? This step-by-step guide breaks down the most common causes—from lid switch failures to worn drive belts—and provides practical solutions to get your washer back in action.

Step 1:

Reset Your Washer

Unplug the washer from the power source. Wait 10 minutes, then plug it back in.
Start a new wash cycle to see if the problem is resolved.

Step 2:

Check the Load Balance

Open the washer and redistribute the clothes evenly.
Restart the cycle and see if the washer begins spinning.

Step 3:

Inspect the Lid Switch or Door Lock

For top-load washers, listen for a click when closing the lid.
For front-load washers, check if the door lock is engaging.

Step 4:

Examine the Drive Belt and Motor Coupling

Unplug the washer and remove the back panel.
Check if the drive belt is loose, frayed, or broken.
Inspect the motor coupling for signs of wear or damage.

Step 5:

Clean the Drain Pump

Remove the drain pump filter and check for clogs.
Clear any debris and test the washer again.

Step 6:

Test the Control Board and Timer

If the washer doesn’t respond to any troubleshooting steps, the control board or timer may need professional inspection.

Key actions for homeowners

Stick to recommended load sizes to prevent strain on the motor and drive belt.
Clean the drain pump regularly, removing lint and debris from the filter to prevent drainage problems.
Check the lid switch and door lock and ensure these components function properly before each cycle.
Inspect the drive belt annually. Look for signs of wear and replace it as needed.

Most common repairs needed to fix a whirlpool washer that’s not spinning

When your Whirlpool washer won’t spin, certain repairs are more commonly required than others. Below are the most frequent fixes:

Replace a Worn-Out Drive Belt: The drive belt is responsible for rotating the washer drum during the spin cycle. Over time, it can become loose, frayed, or completely break, preventing the washer from spinning properly.
Replace a Broken Motor Coupling: The motor coupling connects the washer’s motor to the transmission. If it breaks, the washer drum will not spin, even if the motor runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool washer not spinning but still draining?
If your Whirlpool washer drains but does not spin, the issue could be a worn-out drive belt, a faulty lid switch (for top-load washers),or a malfunctioning motor coupling. Check these components and replace any damaged parts to restore proper spinning.
How do I reset my Whirlpool washer if it won’t spin?
To reset your Whirlpool washer, unplug it from the power outlet and wait about 10 minutes. Then, plug it back in and select a new wash cycle. This can help reset the control board and resolve minor glitches that may be preventing the spin cycle from working.
Can an unbalanced load prevent my Whirlpool washer from spinning?
Yes, an unbalanced load can trigger the washer’s safety mechanism, stopping the spin cycle to prevent damage. To fix this, redistribute the clothes evenly in the drum and restart the cycle. Avoid overloading the washer, as this can also cause balance issues.
When should I call a professional to fix my Whirlpool washer?
If your Whirlpool washer still won’t spin after checking the lid switch, drive belt, motor coupling, and drain pump, it may be a more complex issue with the control board or motor. In this case, it’s best to call a professional appliance repair technician for further diagnosis and repair.

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