Washing Machine Repair for Spins Instead of Agitates

Lid Switch

• If you own a top-loading washing machine, check to make sure the lid switch is working correctly. A washing machine with a broken lid switch won’t agitate, according to online resource Repair Clinic. Open the washing machine lid. The switch should be located close to the interior frame on the inside of the washer. Move your hand over the switch and listen for it to “click.” If the switch doesn’t click when you touch it, it’s probably bad and should be replaced.

Rubber Washtub Belt

• A defective rubber washtub belt could be to blame if your washer only spins and doesn’t agitate. For example, an out-stretched or misplaced belt won’t have the capacity to maintain a firm grasp of the tub to agitate it as it should. Remove the top or back panel of your washing machine to inspect the belt and confirm its condition. Give the belt a good tug to see if it moves. A belt that moves relatively easily with little effort has likely lost its elasticity and should be replaced. Similarly, if the belt indicates wear either fibers are exposed or the rubber is cracked, install a new one.

Motor Coupler

• Certain washing machines, such as many washers manufactured by Whirlpool, have a rubber or plastic motor coupler that connects the motor and transmission, and works to both agitate and spin the washtub. If the motor coupler breaks from normal washing machine use, it might not be able to change the direction of the tub once in motion. As a result, the tub might only spin in one direction rather than agitate. Contact a washing machine repair technician if you suspect that the motor coupler might have failed on your washer. A technician can verify the component’s condition and replace it if needed.

Transmission

• Sometimes a washing machine might only spin if there’s a problem with the transmission. A damaged gear or worn shifter on the transmission could each prevent a washer from agitating. Contact a washing machine repair technician to evaluate the washer’s transmission. Depending on the age of your washer, the technician might recommend that you purchase a new washer if the issue requires more extensive repair.