How to fix a washing machine

Washing machines are essential household appliances, and when they break down, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient. And calling out a plumber to check on things can be expensive, especially if you’re on a tight budget. If you’re wondering how to troubleshoot common washing machine malfunctions before calling out a professional, then fear not - we’re here to help.

Forget about forking out the funds for a costly diagnosis and repair; we’ll show you how easy it is to get your appliance back up and running with some simple DIY fixes.

Prioritise your safety

Before turning your hand to any repairs on an electrical appliance, remember to prioritise your safety and bear the following in mind.

1. Always unplug your appliance: with water and electrics you can never be too careful, so we’d recommend unplugging your appliance from the socket before starting any repairs.

2. If you’re ever in doubt, contact a trained technician: this goes without saying, but if you’re ever at all unsure, it’s best to contact an expert. While we’ll outline various DIY fixes below, some issues inevitably require a professional.

How to fix a washing machine yourself

With callout fees costing on average £50-£100 (not to mention the additional charges for labour and repairs), it’s no surprise you might be searching for low-cost solutions.

So, if you’re wondering how to avoid payday loans and fix your washing machine yourself, we’ve got you covered. We’ll outline the most common faults, and offer some top tips on how you can fix them.

Power issues

One of the most common complaints when it comes to washing machines is issues with power. And while the problem may well lie with the internal system (which should really be tackled by a professional), there are some simple troubleshooting steps you can try at home.

1. Check the power cord and outlet

First things first, you’ll need to check the power supply to ensure the appliance is firmly plugged into the socket. Also, check for any damage to the visible wiring, including burn marks or wear and tear.

The issue may also be with the outlet itself, so test it out by plugging in another device. If you experience similar issues, you’ll need to get it repaired or find a new outlet for your washing machine.

2. Examine the fuse

Many appliances come with internal circuit boards and fuses. If so, the issue may well be with a damaged or blown fuse. To rectify this, you’ll simply need to swap out the blown fuse for a new one.

If you’re unsure where to find the fuse in your specific model, simply refer to your washing machine manual.

Malfunctioning cycles

Perhaps your washing machine skips or pauses during a cycle? If so, you may have a malfunctioning timer. But is there anything you can do to resolve this?

1. Unplug your machine:

Quick and easy, our first solution is to unplug your appliance, wait a few moments, then simply plug it back in. This will reset the cycle and hopefully prevent the issue with your timer from recurring.

Although if the problem persists, it’s more than likely that your timer will need replacing (a job which requires professional knowledge).

2. Check the control board

First, unplug your appliance. Next, dig out your manual and find the section which refers to the control panel. Locate this on your appliance, then inspect it for any signs of damage (including burn marks or loose wires).

If you notice any issues, this is most likely your culprit, and it’s probably time for a replacement.

Drainage complications

If your washing machine is failing to drain after a cycle, the drain pump may be to blame. Not to worry though, as there are a few ways you can fix this yourself:

1. Clean the filter and drain pump

This one can get a bit messy, but it’s a tried and tested way to fix drainage issues. First things first, you’ll need to locate the drain pump filter (on most models, this will be on the front of your washing machine at the very bottom).

Next, remove the outer casing and place a waterproof tray or container underneath it to catch the water. Unscrew the filter cap and remove any visible debris. Finally, screw the cap back on securely and run a cycle.

2. Clean the drain hose

Our second DIY fix involves checking that the drain hose is operating effectively. Simply locate the hose (this is usually on the back of your appliance) and ensure that it is free from clogging. If you notice any clogging, simply remove the pipe and flush it out with water. Then, reattach it and run a cycle to check whether the issue is fixed.

It’s not uncommon for the drain hose to get clogged, so check this regularly to ensure full efficiency.

Strange noises

Another common complaint when it comes to washing machines is that the appliance is making unusual noises. So, here are a few options you can try before giving a professional a call.

1. Check the load

An unbalanced drum can create excessive noise, and sometimes it’s something as simple as making sure your clothes are evenly balanced. Simply turn off your appliance, redistribute your clothing in the drum, then resume the cycle.

Overloading can also cause issues, so make sure to never overfill your drum. The maximum load capacity will usually be mentioned in your manual, so give this a thorough read.

Also, if you’re wondering how to fix a washing machine that won’t spin, avoiding heavy items and ensuring balanced loads is a handy hack to bear in mind.

2. Reattach any loose parts

The next DIY hack is to remove the back panel of your appliance and check for any loose parts. These will usually be obvious if they are the culprit, such as loose screws which are rattling. If you notice any, simply secure them back in place with the relevant tool.

3. Ensure the machine is level

For a simple solution, use a spirit level to check whether there are any levelling issues with your washing machine. If there are, simply adjust the feet underneath accordingly.

If your appliance doesn’t come with adjustable feet, we’d recommend moving it to level ground or purchasing some stackable rubber feet to solve the issue.

Malfunctioning drum

If your drum is failing to rotate, there are a couple of things you can try without the need for professional assistance.

1. Inspect the drive belt

Start by unplugging your washing machine and removing the back panelling. Next, locate the drive belt (this connects the motor to the drum). If you notice any signs of wear and tear, it might be time for a replacement.

Then, simply refer to the machine’s manual (or even the manufacturer’s website for your specific model) for instructions on how to replace it. If you’re unsure however, make sure to contact a professional for guidance.

2. Test the door switch

If your washing machine is failing to spin, a faulty door switch might be to blame. When your washing machine is empty and turned off, simply kneel down and check whether the door opens smoothly and shuts firmly. If it doesn’t, you may need to readjust the switch or replace it.

Poor cleaning performance

A washing machine with poor cleaning performance is an obvious issue, but it isn’t something which can’t be resolved.

1. Check the detergent dispenser

Our first DIY solution is to check the detergent dispenser, and if you notice any build-up, give it a thorough clean. Simply remove the drawer, fill a bowl with hot soapy water, and give it a good scrub. If you notice that the dispenser is damaged, you’ll need to swap it out for a suitable replacement.

You should also make sure that you are using the correct detergent for your model and water hardness. Using the wrong one can cause excessive build-up, resulting in overall reduced efficiency.

2. Run a full cleaning cycle

Next, if the above doesn’t seem to solve the problem, it might be time to run a full cleaning cycle. This involves running an empty cycle with hot water (plus a washing machine cleaner if available) to tackle build-up.

And, if you’re wondering how to fix a smelly washing machine, this hack can help with this too. It will flush away the soap and dirt residue which accumulates over time.

When is professional assistance required?

If your appliance is continuously displaying error codes, the issue may be with the control board, something which can only be repaired by an expert. Equally, malfunctioning components such as valves and pumps will also need to be examined by a professional eye.

And, if you’re wondering how to fix a loose drum on a washing machine, this is an intricate process which usually requires professional knowledge.

So, while many issues can be rectified yourself, complex repairs like motor problems, leaks, and electrical faults must be tended to by a trained professional.

Well, there we have it, our insights and top tips on how to fix a washing machine yourself!

While it can be initially daunting when your washing machine breaks down, there are many quick, cost-effective solutions which can save you both hassle and money. However, if the problem persists or you find yourself in doubt when it comes to repairs, it’s always best to contact a professional.

Next, why not head over to the Moneyboat blog for plenty more insights? You can dive into our tips for avoiding winter car repairs, or read about 10 money mistakes to avoid.

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