Loose Bracket on a Timer Switch in a Washing Machine

Causes

• A loose bracket on a washing machine timer switch typically is caused by vibrations from the washing machine over time. Washing machines sometimes shake noticeably during wash cycles, especially older machines. With time, the vibrations from using the washing machine can cause the bracket to loosen. As the bracket loosens, the timer switch may become loose as well, or it may disconnect from the electrical circuit board of the machine, causing a variety of issues.

Machine Doesn't Advance to Next Cycle

• A loose bracket can cause the timer switch to malfunction. One impact of a malfunctioning timer switch is the failure to move to the next cycle in a wash. For example, if the machine starts with an initial soak then moves to a washing cycle, a broken timer switch might stop the machine from advancing to the washing cycle. This is because many machines use the timer feature to determine when to end a cycle and begin the next cycle when washing a load. If the timer is broken, the machine will not know what to do when a washing cycle ends.

Load Washing Times are Inaccurate

• Another effect of a loose bracket on a timer switch might be inaccurate washing times. For example, if you set the load to wash for a certain amount of time, or on a certain setting, the actual washing time may be different because of the malfunctioning timer switch. Therefore, the clothes might be washed for a longer or shorter period of time than you intended.

Performance

• Washing machines are designed to wash our clothes well, so there are no odors or any soiled areas on the clothes. However, when a timer is not working, it can affect the performance of the machine. For example, if the machine does not complete all its cycles, clothes might sit in dirty water for hours or days, causing them to smell bad. Also, if a timer does not perform properly, clothes might not get washed long enough and might not be fully cleaned.

Repairing

• A loose bracket on the timer switch must be fixed. Consult your owner's manual to locate the timer switch. Washing machines are complicated compared to other home appliances, so if you cannot figure out where the timer is and how to repair or replace it, call a repair service. Also, check to make sure the bracket or part is not covered under warranty to save a little money.