Washing machines are one of the most important conveniences in today’s times that we just cannot do without. Yet, we do not take care to maintain them as we should, which often results in their malfunctioning. Although, they are not complicated machines, they have many different parts. As a result, it becomes a bit difficult to identify which part has become faulty. This article will tell you how to fix a washing machine in simple steps.
Fix a wobbly washing machine
If your machine wobbles or “walks” while it’s running, then it means that one or more of its feet and not reaching the floor. The following steps will help you fix this problem:
- Tilt your washing machine forward such that the back legs are 2-3 inches above the floor. In most machines, the back legs adjust by themselves and just tilting your machine will fix the problem. If not, then go on to the next step.
- Place a sturdy wooden block at the bottom of the washing machine, in the centre, so that you are able to see all four legs.
- Take a wrench and loosen the nuts on each foot and then adjust the foot. Remove the block and place it back in position.
- Check if the machine is level side to side by using a carpenter’s level. You can also use pliers to rotate the feet if the machine is not in level.
- Now, put the washing machine on the wooden block again and tighten all the nuts. The washing machine will not wobble any more.
Fix a banging washing machine
During the spinning cycle, your washer may start making loud banging and rattling noise. This is mostly because of overload or unbalanced load. Fix this problem by following these steps:
- Turn off the washing machine immediately, even if it is in mid-cycle.
- Open the door/lid of the washer to check if the majority of clothes have shifted or gathered to one side of the tub.
- Rearrange the clothes so that they are spread evenly in the tub. If you think the machine is overloaded, take out some of the heavier clothes.
- Drain the machine and then rewash your clothes.
Fix a noisy washing machine
Your washing machine may be making noises because of some loose items that might have forgotten to take out from the pockets of your jeans or jackets. Follow these steps to fix this problem:
- Turn off the machine and take out the clothes. Now look for any loose items such as coins and pens that might have fallen from pockets into the tub. If you don’t see anything in the tub, chances are that the items have fallen in the sides of the basket.
- Remove the top panel of the washer using a screwdriver and look into the sides using a flashlight. Remove any items if you find them, or else go on to the next step.
- Adjust the level of the machine. Sometimes an uneven machine will also makes noises while running. If this also does not work, read on.
- Replace the drum bearing; however, make sure you read the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly for doing this. You can also replace the driver belt if you find it cracked or loose.
- Reassemble all the parts and the washing machine should work fine.
Fix a washing machine that does not spin or spins out of control
- Usually a washing will stop spinning properly because of unbalanced load. Therefore, the first thing to do is to check the load.
- Distribute the clothes evenly all around the tub and if they are too many clothes, simply take out the extra clothes.
- Sometimes, the problem could be with the agitator. If you find that it is broken, then you will have to replace it.
- If your washing machine is not spinning at all, first check if the lid is closed or the latch of the door is fixed properly.
- The problem could be with the belt. If it has cracks or is glazed, you will have to replace it.
- Sometimes the problem could be with the motor of the washing machine and can be fixed by replacing the motor.
Some important checks to do before you fix a washing machine
- Ensure that your washing machine is receiving power and make sure all switches, cords and plugs are working. Check for any short circuit or fuse.
- Check whether the control knob on the machine is set to ON position. Close the door or lid of the washer tightly.
- Make sure the water faucets are turned on and the drain pipe is extended.
- Check the temperature of water from the control panel; it should be not lower than 120 degrees F.
- Clean the door/lid of the washer at regular intervals to prevent build-up of soap scum and dirt.
- Run your machine on empty load once a month to clean the tub thoroughly.
- Never load a washing machine as it cause imbalance and banging and may result it further damage to the motor.
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