How to Repair a Washing Machine
One of the modern conveniences that most people cannot live without is their washing machine. Washing machines have become extremely commonplace in today’s homes and while not a lot of thought goes into the care and maintenance of these common appliances, once a washing machine begins to malfunction, homeowners and apartment dwellers immediately need to take notice.
Washing machines are not terribly complicated machines, but do have quite a few different parts including the agitator, tub, clutch, motor, water seal, water pump, timer, etc. There are two main types of washing machines; they are front load washing machines and washing machines that load from the top. Front load washing machines usually have a spherical glass lid on the front that opens so that you can place the clothes in. Top loaders generally use a metal lid on top of the unit that opens up where clothes are inserted. Both types of machines generally have the same components and use the same method to clean clothes.
How Washing Machines Clean
Before repairing a washing machine, it is important to note how they work. Washing machines use the power of motion to clean clothes. In the old days, clothing was moved back and forth against a rock or wash board to loosen dirt and to clean clothing. This technique is still used today in the form of an agitator. Agitators spin clothing round and round. For instance in a front loading machine, an agitator run by a motor turns clothes quite frequently to help loosen dirt submerged in water and detergent. In a top loading washing machine, the agitator moves clothes around as well, using similar principles. In addition, the centrifugal spin of the agitators at hundreds of rounds per minute also helps loosen dirt and effectively clean clothing.
Besides the agitator there are two tubs; the inner and outer, the inner tub has small holes throughout the bottom and sides to allow water to both enter and exit. The outer tub is stationary and helps remove water from the inner tub.
Common Issues with Washing Machines
There are certain malfunctions that are common with washing machines; they include a broken motor, an electrical component that is not working properly (such as a blown fuse or switch), a water pump that does not function and a broken drive belt. These malfunctions are quite common and in most cases cost less to repair than to replace your washing machine. However if your washing machine is old and has developed a few problems, it may be more practical and cost effective to replace the entire machine.
Fixing an Agitator
One of the most common problems with a washing machine is due to a broken or malfunctioning agitator. The agitator is the piece of plastic that moves back and forth. In order to fix the agitator, you must first remove it. If the agitator is not broken, but moving slowly in one direction or not at all, this can be due to the clutch assembly that the agitator relies on. You can remove the agitator and check the clutch assembly. The clutch has dogs that depress and pop up with each turn, however if these dogs are worn, they will need to be replaced. You can usually contact your washing machine manufacturer and order replacement parts. Alternatively, you could get one from a home improvement store that stocks common washing machine items.
Electrical Problems
Sometimes a washing machine may have electrical problems that can include a blown fuse, a broken timer, switches that are not functioning, etc. Obviously, before you fix a problem with the electricity, make sure you unplug the washing machine. First, check your fuse box and your electrical outlet. Some types of washing machines require higher voltage to work and it might be a problem with your home’s electricity rather than the washing machine. In addition to checking the outlets and fuse box, check the cords and electrical system of the washer machine. Most washer machines will have fuses that are accessible from behind the unit. Check to make sure all are working properly. If you are having a problem with a specific switch such as a timer or thermostat, you might want to check the connection or replace the timer or thermostat completely. Usually this only requires a screwdriver and the new part.
Fixing a Belt Problem
A belt problem is usually time consuming to fix and can be messy. A belt problem is a common malfunction on older washing machines. If your washing machine sounds like it is going through the motions, but nothing is happening, the belt may be the problem. Many times a loose belt can wreak havoc on your washing machine causing interruptions in movement as well as jerky movements back and forth. To fix a belt problem, first unplug the machine and set it down on the side. Before doing so, put some cardboard on the floor so that you do not scratch your floor or machine. When placed on its side, your washing machine may still have water in it that will leak out, so make sure you have a towel or sponges near by to clean up the mess. On some washing machines, the belt is in plain view and can be accessed easily, on others the belt may be hidden behind a floor that must be removed first.
Once you remove the floor, you will need to unscrew any clamps that are securing the pump coupling. The pump coupling is a rubbery flexible part that is used to connect the motor to the water pump. Once you remove the pump coupling, you should be able to slip out the old belt. It should be noted that some models require you to first loosen motor mounting bolts and then relieve the belt tension to the access and remove the belt.
When placing a new belt in your washing machine, place it over the transmission pulley first and then over the motor pulley. Now just replace the pump coupling or tighten the motor mounting bolts (depending on your make and model). Make sure you tighten the belt appropriately; the belt should have a displacement of about ½ inch when touched in the center of the longest run.
Now turn the washer upright, plug in and test. If the washing machine is still not working properly, you may need to tighten the belt or your problem may be due to another malfunctioning part.
Fixing a Motor Problem
If your motor in your washing machine is not working properly or not at all, you should seriously consider whether to fix your machine or replace it completely. While a new motor will once again get your machine working, the cost and time it takes to replace may not be practical. You will first require detailed information from the manufacturer before attempting to fix the motor since each make and model may be different. Definitely contact your washing machine manufacturer or retail store for more information on fixing it, or whether it is worth replacing the entire unit.