7 Common Washing Machine Problems & How to Fix Them

A fully functional washing machine is the unsung hero of a busy household, tirelessly tackling laundry piles. But what happens when it grinds to a halt, leaks, or refuses to start? These interruptions are more than just an inconvenience; they can disrupt your entire routine and leave you facing mountains of unwashed clothes.

Many homeowners feel a sense of dread, immediately imagining costly repairs or the expense of a brand-new appliance. However, understanding the most common washing machine problems is the first step towards a swift and effective solution. This guide demystifies seven of the most frequent issues, from a drum that won't spin to a door that stubbornly stays locked.

We'll break down the symptoms, explore the likely causes, and provide you with actionable troubleshooting steps to help you diagnose the fault. We'll clarify whether it’s a simple DIY fix you can manage yourself or a more complex issue that requires professional attention. By the end of this article, you'll be better equipped to face any laundry day disaster with confidence, knowing exactly what to do. If you find the problem is beyond a quick fix, remember our expert technicians are always on hand to provide a fast, reliable repair.

1. Washing Machine Won't Start

There’s nothing more frustrating than loading your washing machine, adding the detergent, and pressing the start button only to be met with complete silence. When your appliance shows no signs of life - no lights, no sounds, no action - it’s a clear sign of one of the most common washing machine problems. This issue usually points to a handful of culprits, ranging from a simple power supply interruption to a safety mechanism that hasn’t engaged properly.

Before you assume the worst, a few quick checks can often resolve the issue without needing a professional. The problem is frequently external to the machine itself, so a methodical approach is key to diagnosing it correctly.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Start with the most obvious and simple solutions first. This systematic process can help you identify the root cause quickly:

• Test the Power Source: The first step is to confirm the outlet is working. Unplug the washing machine and plug in a small, working appliance like a lamp or phone charger to verify the socket has power.
• Check the Circuit Breaker: Head to your consumer unit (fuse box) and check if the switch connected to your laundry area has tripped. If it's in the 'off' position, flip it back on. If it trips again immediately, you may have a more serious electrical issue.
• Ensure the Door Is Securely Latched: Modern washing machines have a safety feature that prevents them from starting if the door isn't properly closed. Push the door firmly until you hear a distinct click. Debris or clothing caught in the latch can prevent it from engaging.
• Perform a Hard Reset: Sometimes, the machine's internal computer just needs a reboot. Unplug the appliance from the wall, wait for a full minute, and then plug it back in. This simple action can clear temporary electronic glitches.

If these steps don't bring your machine back to life, the problem could be more complex, such as a faulty lid switch, a malfunctioning control board, or an issue with the main power cord. These internal component failures require technical expertise to diagnose and repair safely.

When to Call a Professional: If you've exhausted these basic checks and your machine still won't start, it's time to seek expert help. Continuing to troubleshoot internal electrical components can be dangerous. For a fast and reliable diagnosis, consider our professional washing machine repair services. Our certified technicians can safely identify the fault and get your appliance running again.

2. Washing Machine Won't Drain Properly

Finishing a wash cycle only to find your clothes sitting in a pool of murky water is a common and unpleasant surprise. When a washing machine won't drain properly, it leaves garments soaking wet and can prevent the final spin cycle from running effectively. This standing water is not only inconvenient but can also lead to musty odours and potential mould growth if left unresolved.

This issue often stems from a blockage somewhere in the drainage system, such as a rogue sock stuck in the pump or a kinked hose. Fortunately, many of these causes are simple to diagnose and fix at home with a bit of methodical investigation, saving you from a premature call-out.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before assuming a major component has failed, work through these simple checks. Remember to have some towels ready, as dealing with drainage issues can get a little wet.

• Inspect the Drain Pump Filter: This is the most common culprit. The filter catches lint, coins, and small items to protect the pump. Locate it (usually behind a small panel at the bottom front of the machine), place towels down, and unscrew it carefully to release trapped water. Clean any debris from the filter and its housing before securing it back in place.
• Check the Drain Hose for Kinks and Clogs: Pull the machine away from the wall and ensure the drain hose isn't crushed or sharply bent, as this can stop water from flowing. Disconnect the hose from the standpipe and check for any visible blockages inside.
• Ensure the Standpipe Isn't Blocked: A clog in your household plumbing can mimic a machine fault. To test this, carefully pour a small amount of water down the standpipe (the pipe the drain hose goes into). If it backs up, the issue is with your home's drainage, not the appliance. For a detailed walkthrough, you can learn more about how to unblock a washing machine waste pipe.
• Use the Correct Detergent: Using too much detergent, or a non-HE (High-Efficiency) type in an HE machine, can create excessive suds that prevent the machine from draining properly.

If you have cleaned the filter and checked the hose but the drum still holds water, the problem could lie with a faulty drain pump or a blockage deeper within the machine's internal tubing.

When to Call a Professional: If your machine is still full of water after performing these checks, it's best to call for professional assistance. Attempting to disassemble the drain pump or internal hoses can lead to leaks and further damage. Our skilled technicians can quickly diagnose pump failures or clear stubborn internal blockages, ensuring your appliance drains perfectly every time. If you need help, our washing machine repair services are just a call away.

3. Excessive Vibration and Noise During Operation

A washing machine that sounds like it’s preparing for takeoff is more than just an annoyance; it's a sign that something is wrong. While a gentle hum and the sound of swishing water are normal, loud banging, heavy thumping, or severe vibrations are clear indicators of a mechanical issue. This is one of the most common washing machine problems that, if ignored, can lead to damage to the machine, your floor, and even surrounding units.

The cause often relates to an imbalance, either with the load inside or the machine's footing. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved with a few simple adjustments, restoring peace and quiet to your laundry routine without needing an engineer. Technologies like LG’s TrueBalance or Samsung's VRT aim to minimise this, but even advanced machines aren't immune to basic setup problems.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before you start worrying about worn-out bearings or a damaged drum, work through these simple checks to tackle the most frequent causes of a noisy machine:

• Check the Levelling: The most common culprit is an unlevel machine. Use a spirit level to check the top of the appliance. Adjust the machine's feet at each corner until it sits perfectly level and stable, with no rocking whatsoever.
• Balance Your Laundry Load: An unevenly distributed load will cause the drum to spin off-balance, creating a loud thumping noise. Avoid washing single heavy items, like a bathmat or a large towel, on their own. Pause the cycle and redistribute the clothes evenly inside the drum.
• Remove Shipping Bolts: If your machine is brand new, ensure the shipping bolts at the rear have been removed. These bolts hold the drum in place during transit and will cause violent shaking if left in during operation.
• Inspect the Floor: A weak or uneven floor can amplify vibrations. Ensure the machine is on a solid, flat surface. Placing anti-vibration rubber mats under the feet can significantly dampen the noise and movement.

If the noise is more of a persistent hum or grinding sound, you might be dealing with a different issue. You can explore potential causes by reading our guide on how to fix a humming washing machine.

When to Call a Professional: If you've tried all the above and your machine continues to shake violently or make grinding noises, it likely points to a more serious internal problem, such as worn-out shock absorbers, suspension springs, or drum bearings. Attempting these repairs yourself is complex and can cause further damage. A qualified technician can accurately diagnose and resolve these internal faults. Contact us for professional washing machine repair services to get the job done right.

4. Water Leaking from Washing Machine

Discovering a puddle of water around your washing machine is a universally dreaded homeowner experience. A leak, no matter how small, is one of the most serious common washing machine problems because it can lead to significant water damage, mould growth, and costly property repairs. Leaks can originate from several places, such as hoses, seals, pumps, or even the main drum, and require immediate attention to prevent the situation from worsening.

Whether it's a slow drip or a sudden flood, identifying the source is the first step towards a solution. For instance, front-load washers are known for developing door seal leaks, while top-load machines often leak from loose fill hose connections at the back. Pinpointing the cause quickly can save you from a major clean-up and a hefty repair bill.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Start by identifying where the water is coming from. A systematic check of the most common failure points can often reveal a simple fix:

• Inspect the Hoses: Carefully check the hot and cold water fill hoses at the back of the machine. Ensure the connections to both the machine and the wall taps are tight. Look for any visible cracks, blisters, or signs of wear on the hoses themselves.
• Examine the Door Seal: On a front-loading machine, the rubber gasket (door seal) is a frequent culprit. Wipe it down and inspect it for tears, holes, or trapped debris like hair or fabric softener residue that could be preventing a proper seal.
• Check Your Detergent Use: Using too much soap or a non-HE (High-Efficiency) detergent in an HE machine can create excessive suds. This foam can force water to escape through overflow systems, often from the back or bottom of the machine.
• Ensure the Machine Is Level: An unbalanced machine can cause water to splash over the top of the tub during a vigorous spin cycle. Use a spirit level to check if the appliance is level and adjust the feet accordingly.

These simple checks can often resolve minor leaks. However, if the water appears to be coming from underneath the machine, it could indicate a more serious internal issue like a cracked drum or a failing water pump.

When to Call a Professional: If you've tightened all the hoses and checked the seals but the leak persists, especially if it's coming from the bottom of the unit, it’s time to call an expert. Internal leaks can be complex and attempting a DIY repair without the right knowledge can lead to further damage. For a safe and effective solution, trust our expert washing machine repair services. Our engineers can diagnose the source of the leak and carry out a lasting repair.

5. Washing Machine Won't Fill with Water

You’ve loaded your laundry and selected the cycle, but instead of the familiar sound of rushing water, you hear only a faint hum or nothing at all. A washing machine that won't fill with water is another of the most common washing machine problems, bringing your laundry routine to a complete halt. This issue stops the cycle before it can even begin, leaving your clothes dry and dirty inside the drum.

Fortunately, the cause is often a straightforward water supply issue rather than a catastrophic machine failure. From a kinked hose to a blocked filter, a few simple checks can usually identify the source of the problem and get the water flowing again.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before assuming a major fault, work through these steps to diagnose and potentially solve the water intake problem:

• Check the Water Supply Valves: The most common culprit is also the easiest to fix. Ensure the hot and cold water taps behind your machine are turned fully on. They can sometimes be knocked or accidentally turned off during cleaning or other household tasks.
• Inspect the Inlet Hoses: Pull the machine forward slightly to check the water inlet hoses. Make sure they are not kinked, twisted, or crushed against the wall, as this can severely restrict or block water flow.
• Clean the Inlet Filters: Small mesh filters are located where the inlet hoses connect to the back of the washing machine. Turn off the water supply, unscrew the hoses, and carefully remove these filters with a pair of pliers. Clean away any sediment or debris under a tap and reinstall them. This is a frequent issue in hard water areas.
• Verify Household Water Pressure: Check if other taps in your home are running normally. If the water pressure is low throughout the house, the washing machine may not be able to fill correctly. This can happen during peak usage times in your neighbourhood.

If these simple fixes don't work, the problem could lie with an internal component, such as a faulty water inlet valve, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or an issue with the main control board.

When to Call a Professional: If you've confirmed the water supply is fine and the hoses and filters are clear, it’s time for an expert diagnosis. Dealing with internal components like water valves and pressure systems can be complex. For a safe and efficient repair, contact our professional washing machine repair services. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the faulty part and restore your machine’s function.

6. Drum Not Spinning or Agitating

You load your washing machine, select the cycle, and hear the familiar sound of water filling the drum. However, instead of the rhythmic turning or agitating that follows, there’s only a low hum or, even worse, silence. When the drum fails to spin or agitate, your clothes are left soaking in dirty water, a clear sign of a significant mechanical issue and one of the most serious common washing machine problems. This failure points directly to the components responsible for turning the drum.

The cause can range from a simple overloaded drum throwing the machine off balance to a worn-out belt or a failed motor coupling. While some issues can be identified with a visual check, many require a more in-depth diagnosis to pinpoint the faulty part, as the drive system is complex.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before scheduling a repair, a few checks can help you understand the potential severity of the problem:

• Check for an Overload: Too many heavy items can unbalance the drum and prevent it from spinning. Try removing a few items, redistributing the remaining clothes evenly, and running a spin-only cycle.
• Inspect the Drive Belt: For belt-driven machines, unplug the appliance and remove the back or bottom access panel. Look for a large rubber belt connecting the motor to the drum. If it is snapped, frayed, or has slipped off the pulleys, it will need to be replaced.
• Listen to the Motor: If you can hear the motor running but the drum isn't moving, the problem likely lies with the connection between them, such as a worn belt, a broken motor coupling (in direct-drive models), or a faulty clutch.
• Test for Free Movement: With the machine off, try to spin the drum by hand. If it feels stiff, makes a grinding noise, or won't move at all, it could indicate a problem with the drum bearings or something caught between the inner and outer tubs.

A non-spinning drum is a mechanical failure that often involves disassembling parts of the machine. Components like the motor, transmission, and clutch are critical and complex.

When to Call a Professional: If you've checked for an overload and the issue persists, it's best to call an expert. A non-spinning drum often indicates a failed internal component like the drive belt, motor, or transmission. For a safe and accurate diagnosis of these complex mechanical failures, book our expert washing machine repair services. Our technicians can quickly identify the broken part and restore your machine's function.

7. Door or Lid Won't Open

Completing a wash cycle only to find your clothes are held hostage by a stubborn door is a uniquely frustrating experience. When a washing machine door or lid refuses to open, it immediately halts your laundry routine. This is one of the more perplexing common washing machine problems, often tied to safety features in modern appliances, but it can also signal a mechanical or electronic fault that needs attention.

This issue is particularly common in front-loading machines, which use an electronic lock to create a watertight seal and prevent opening mid-cycle. While this mechanism is crucial for safety and preventing floods, a malfunction can leave you locked out. However, before you panic or try to force it open, there are several simple checks you can perform.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Start with the simplest solutions, as the cause is often related to the machine's safety protocols or a minor glitch. Never force the door, as this can break the handle or the entire locking mechanism.

• Wait Patiently: Most modern machines have a time-delay lock that stays engaged for 3-5 minutes after a cycle finishes. This allows the drum to stop spinning completely and any high temperatures to cool down. Give it a few minutes before trying again.
• Check for Water: If the machine hasn't drained properly, a pressure switch will keep the door locked to prevent a flood. Run a drain or spin-only cycle to remove any remaining water.
• Perform a Power Reset: An electronic fault can sometimes be cleared with a simple reboot. Unplug the machine from the mains, wait for at least one minute, and then plug it back in. This can reset the lock's sensor and release the door.
• Check the Manual Release: Many front-loaders have a manual release tab or cord. This is usually located behind a small flap near the drain pump filter at the bottom front of the appliance. Consult your owner's manual to find and safely operate it.

If these steps fail to release the door, the issue could be a faulty door lock assembly, a problematic pressure switch, or an issue with the main control board.

When to Call a Professional: Forcing a jammed door can cause expensive and irreparable damage. If basic troubleshooting doesn't work, it's time to call in an expert. Our technicians can diagnose issues with locking mechanisms and control boards safely and effectively. For a deeper understanding of why your washing machine door is stuck, our guide offers further insights. If you need a hand, you can always book our expert washing machine repair services.

Common Washing Machine Problems Comparison

When DIY Isn't Enough: Know When to Call the Experts

Navigating the world of appliance repairs can feel daunting, but as we've explored, many common washing machine problems have surprisingly straightforward solutions. From a simple power check when your machine refuses to start, to clearing a blocked filter to resolve drainage issues, a little bit of knowledge empowers you to tackle minor faults head-on. You are often your own first line of defence against appliance disruption.

Understanding the root causes of issues like excessive vibration (often just an unbalanced load) or a door that won't open (usually a safety lock delay) can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. These quick fixes and diagnostic tips are designed to get your laundry routine back on track with minimal fuss, transforming a potential crisis into a manageable task.

Knowing Your Limits: The Value of Professional Expertise

However, the true mastery of home appliance maintenance lies in recognising when a problem has escalated beyond a simple DIY fix. While tightening a hose to stop a leak is one thing, dealing with a faulty motor, a malfunctioning control board, or complex internal wiring is an entirely different matter.

There are several key indicators that signal it's time to step back and call a professional engineer:

• Persistent Problems: If you have tried the recommended troubleshooting steps and the issue continues, there is likely a deeper, underlying fault that requires specialist tools and knowledge.
• Electrical Concerns: Any sign of burning smells, sparks, or repeatedly tripping circuits is a serious safety hazard. Do not attempt to investigate these issues yourself; turn the appliance off at the mains and call an expert immediately.
• Major Disassembly Required: If a repair involves taking apart the main body of the machine, removing the drum, or accessing the motor, you risk causing further damage or voiding your warranty.
• Complex Leaks: While a loose connection is an easy fix, a leak originating from the internal tub or a cracked component requires a professional diagnosis and repair to prevent significant water damage to your home.

Attempting complex repairs without the proper training can not only worsen the initial problem but also pose a significant risk of injury or electrical shock. Your washing machine is a complex piece of equipment, and professional engineers are equipped with the diagnostic software, specialised parts, and hands-on experience to resolve issues safely and efficiently. By calling in an expert, you’re not just fixing the appliance; you’re investing in peace of mind and the long-term health of your machine, ensuring it continues to serve your household reliably for years to come.

Don't let a faulty appliance disrupt your daily life. For fast, reliable, and guaranteed repairs for all your common washing machine problems, trust the experts at Go Assist. Book your certified local engineer online today and get your appliance running smoothly again.