How to fix washing machine: DIY Repair Guide
Before attempting any repair, safety is the absolute first step. You must unplug the appliance from the wall socket and shut off the water supply taps. This prevents electric shocks and flooding.
Your First Safety Checks Before Any Repair
When a washer stops working, many assume a major internal part has failed. However, a surprising number of faults are due to simple external issues that are quick to check. Running through this basic checklist can often pinpoint the problem in minutes, saving you time and money.
Confirm Power and Water Supply
It sounds basic, but a lack of power or water is a frequent culprit. First, check the power. Is the plug firmly in the socket? Test the socket by plugging in something you know works, like a phone charger. If it doesn't work, the issue is with your home's electrics.
Next, check the plug's fuse. Most UK plugs contain a fuse that can blow. Carefully swap it for a new one with the same rating (usually a 13-amp fuse for a washing machine). This is a common and cheap fix.
Once you’re sure about the power, check the water.
- Check the Taps: Look behind the machine for the hot and cold water inlet taps. Are they fully turned on?
- Inspect the Hoses: Check the inlet hoses for any kinks or bends that might be blocking water flow.
- Consider Your Mains: If water pressure is low elsewhere in the house, the issue could be your main supply. Our guide on how to turn off the water mains has useful information on finding your stopcock.
Locate Your Machine's Model Number
Before proceeding, find your washing machine's model and serial number. This information is vital if you need to order replacement parts.
Locating this information now will save you a massive headache later. It's usually printed on a sticker.
You’ll typically find the model number sticker here:
- On the inside of the door
- Around the frame of the porthole opening
- On the back panel of the machine
- Behind the kickplate at the bottom front
Once you find it, take a clear photo or write the numbers down.
Building Your DIY Repair Toolkit
A successful repair starts with having the correct tools on hand. You don't need a professional-grade set; just a small, capable kit for the most common washer problems.
The Essential Tools for the Job
Most common washing machine repairs don't require specialised gear. Here are the must-haves:
- Multimeter: This is essential for diagnosing electrical faults, letting you test components like heating elements or door switches for continuity.
- Socket Wrench Set: Crucial for removing panels and accessing the machine's internal parts.
- Pliers (Various Types): You'll need pliers for hose clamps. Long-nosed pliers are also useful for retrieving dropped screws.
- Screwdrivers: A simple set of Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers is a necessity.
With these four items, you are well-equipped to handle many common repairs.
Finding the Right Replacement Parts
Once you’ve identified the problem, you need the correct spare part. This is where the model number you found earlier is essential. Using the wrong part won’t just fail to fix the issue; it could cause more damage.
Reputable online appliance parts suppliers have search bars where you can enter your model number to see a full list of compatible parts. Be specific. Instead of "pump," search for "drain pump for Hotpoint WMXTF942G." This ensures the part you order has the right fittings. This preparation is the foundation for learning how to fix your washing machine correctly.
Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Faults
With safety checks done and tools ready, it's time to diagnose the problem. Washing machine faults often boil down to a handful of common, fixable issues.
Quick Guide to Common Washer Faults
| Problem | Likely Cause | DIY Fix Summary | Estimated Part Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Won't Start | Faulty door interlock or power issue. | Check power first. If okay, inspect the door lock for damage and replace if necessary. | £10 - £30 |
| Won't Spin | Worn motor carbon brushes or unbalanced load. | Try redistributing the laundry first. If that fails, replace the carbon brushes on the motor. | £5 - £25 |
| Leaking Water | Damaged door seal or loose/split hoses. | Tighten hose connections. Inspect the door seal for tears and replace if damaged. | £15 - £50 |
| Won't Drain | Blocked pump filter or drain hose. | Clean the pump filter. If the problem persists, check the drain hose for blockages. | £0 - £15 |
The Washer That Will Not Start
If you've confirmed the plug socket works, the most likely suspect is the door interlock. This safety switch prevents the machine from running if the door isn't properly closed. If it breaks, your washer thinks the door is open.
- How to check: Close the door and listen for a solid "click." If there's no click, the interlock is likely broken or misaligned.
- The fix: Replacing a door interlock is a manageable DIY job. You'll typically need to remove the door seal's retaining band, unscrew the old lock, unplug it, and fit the new one.
The Drum That Refuses to Spin
When a machine won't spin, the cause is often worn carbon brushes on the motor. These small blocks deliver power and wear down over time. Before disassembling anything, first check for an unbalanced load. Modern machines stop a spin if heavy items are lumped on one side. Rearrange the laundry and try a "drain and spin" cycle.
The Puddle on the Kitchen Floor
A puddle under your washer is usually caused by a hose or the door seal. Start at the back and check that the inlet and drain hoses are screwed on tightly. Inspect the hoses for any splits. If they look fine, check the rubber door seal (gasket) for tears or holes, especially at the bottom.
The Machine That Will Not Drain
When the drum is full of water after a cycle, it's almost always a drainage blockage. The first place to check is the pump filter. It's usually behind a small flap at the bottom-front of the machine. Our guide on how to clean a washing machine filter gives a full walkthrough. If the filter is clear, check the drain hose for kinks. Knowing how to diagnose these issues is a valuable skill, much like troubleshooting a gas hot water heater.
Making the Call: Repair or Replace Your Machine
When your machine breaks down, you face a common dilemma: repair or replace? The decision involves weighing the machine's age, the cost of parts, and the value of your time.
Analysing the Key Factors
Look at the situation logically to make an informed choice.
- The Age of Your Machine: Use the 50% rule. If your washer is over halfway through its expected lifespan (8-12 years) and the repair costs more than 50% of a new model, replacement is often smarter.
- Cost of the Repair: Add up the price of parts and any special tools. See our guide on how much a professional washing machine repair costs to compare.
- The Nature of the Fault: A snapped drive belt or faulty drain pump are good DIY fixes. A failed control board or drum bearings are complex, and replacement may be a better option. Landlords can benefit from exploring strategies for mastering rental property maintenance costs.
- Your DIY Time and Confidence: Be realistic. A pro might fix it in an hour, while it could take you an afternoon. Is the saving worth your time?
Choosing to repair is also an environmentally friendly decision, reducing electronic waste. This aligns with the UK's 'Right to Repair' laws, which encourage manufacturers to make longer-lasting appliances with accessible spare parts. The UK's appliance repair market trends reflect this shift (learn more about the UK's appliance repair market trends).
When You Should Call a Go Assist Engineer
Knowing your limits is the most important part of any DIY job. Pushing beyond your skill set can be dangerous and may turn a simple fix into a terminal fault. Some repairs demand certified training and specialist equipment.
Spotting Serious Electrical Faults
Any issue involving the core electrics is a red flag. These signs mean it's time to call for help:
- A Smell of Burning: A sharp smell of burning plastic or rubber indicates an overheating motor or short-circuiting wires. Unplug the machine immediately.
- Tripping Electrics: If your washer trips the circuit breaker, there's an underlying electrical fault.
- Visible Sparks or Scorch Marks: This is a clear indicator of a dangerous electrical problem.
Tackling Complex Mechanical Jobs
Some mechanical repairs are very difficult. Replacing drum bearings, for example, is a massive job that requires stripping the entire machine. Likewise, problems with the main motor or the Printed Circuit Board (PCB)—the machine’s electronic brain—are best left to professionals.
When You’ve Tried Everything Else
If you've cleaned the filter, checked the hoses, and tested the door lock, but the machine still won't work, it's time for a professional diagnostic. An experienced Go Assist engineer can spot subtle signs of failure a DIYer might miss.
If you’ve hit a dead end, make the call. Booking a vetted Go Assist engineer ensures a fast, guaranteed fix. Our brand-certified technicians have the exact knowledge needed for your specific model. Don't let frustration win—let us get your machine back up and running safely.
If you've followed these steps and are still stuck, or if the job feels too complex, don't hesitate. The expert team at Go Assist is ready to help with a fast, reliable, and guaranteed repair. Book one of our brand-certified engineers for a same- or next-day appointment at https://go-assist.co.uk and get your appliance running perfectly again.
