Unbalanced load
A single heavy item, such as a rug or comforter, can stop the spin. Many washers try several times, then give up.
Appliance problem guide
Washer Not Spinning
A washer that fills and agitates but will not spin often has a drain, balance, lid lock or drive problem rather than a failed motor.
Short answer
Redistribute the load, make sure the washer is level and run a drain and spin cycle. If the drum still will not spin, or you hear humming without movement, a lid switch, door lock, belt, coupler or motor control may need a technician.
For homeowners with a broken washer, dryer, oven, stove, cooktop or freezer. Not for refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, commercial appliances, parts orders or phone-only quotes.
What is usually behind it
Likely causes
Washers protect themselves during spin. If anything looks unsafe or unbalanced, the control simply skips or stops the spin.
Lid switch or door lock
If the washer cannot confirm the lid or door is locked, it will not spin.
Drain problem
Water left in the drum stops the spin step on most models.
Belt, coupler or clutch
Worn drive parts can let the motor run while the drum stays still.
Safe first checks
What you can safely check first
- Spread the load evenly or remove one bulky item
- Check that the washer sits level and does not rock
- Make sure the lid or door closes firmly
- Confirm the drum drains completely
- Run a drain and spin cycle with the washer empty
Safety: gas and electrical work
Never reach into a moving drum or try to bypass a lid switch. Unplug the washer before checking anything inside or behind it.
When to call
When to call a technician
Call if the drum still will not spin with an empty, level washer, if you hear the motor running without the drum turning, or if you smell burning. Note any error code.
Related services
Services that cover this problem
Start with washer repair, part of washer and dryer repair.
Washer Repair
Washing machines that will not drain, spin, fill or stop leaking.
Washer and Dryer Repair
Washers that will not drain or spin, and dryers that will not heat or start.
Markets and areas
Calling from your market
- Washer and Dryer in Birmingham, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Tuscaloosa, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Huntsville, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Mobile, AL
Markets
Regional areas
An unbalanced or very heavy load is the usual reason. Bulky items absorb a lot of water. Splitting the load or adding a few towels to balance it often helps.
Yes. On many top-load washers the lid switch must signal that the lid is closed before the drum will spin. A failed switch is a common, contained repair.
Often, yes. Belts, couplers, lid switches and drain pumps are common repairs. If the transmission or bearings have failed on an older machine, ask the provider to compare repair with replacement.
Next step
Still not working after the safe checks?
Call to describe what the appliance is doing and get connected with an independent local provider.