A washer that won’t spin leaves you with a puddle of wet laundry and a mystery on your hands. Why is my Whirlpool front load washer not spinning? Check your selected settings to make sure they include a spin cycle. Try these troubleshooting tips to identify the problem when your Whirlpool front loader won’t spin.
6 Common Causes For a Whirlpool Front Load Washer Not Spinning
While part failures require a professional repair, sometimes the reason for a Whirlpool front load washer not spinning has a DIY fix. Here’s how to pin down the problem and the right solution.
1. Washing Machine is Off Balance
When the washer doesn’t sit evenly on the floor the spin cycle won’t operate properly. You may also notice that the washer vibrates and makes excessive noise during operation. If a carpenter’s level placed on the top shows a Whirlpool washer out of balance, adjust its leveling legs higher or lower. This can be done by loosening the lock nuts on each leg and raising it higher or lower until all four rest evenly on the floor.
2. Load is Out of Balance
A load that is out of balance is one of the most common reasons for a washing machine not spinning properly. When items settle on one side of the washer drum, they can limit its motion, especially when washing oversize items like blankets or rugs. They can also affect draining and the speed of the spin cycle, slowing it down so clothes are still wet after spinning.
If you suspect that your load was out of balance, redistribute it more evenly in the washer drum and run a second spin cycle. Since draining problems can leave dirt and residue behind, use our washer cleaning tips to clean the drum after an off-balance load.
3. Need to Adjust Wash Cycle
If you find your Whirlpool front load washer not spinning clothes dry you may need to check your cycle settings. Cycles like Delicate or Hand Wash use a slower spin speed to avoid harming more fragile fabrics. Some Whirlpool washer cycles also include a No Spin option with no spin cycle at all.
Always check your washer settings before starting a cycle to make sure you’ve selected the right one for your wash load.
4. Worn Out Washer Drive Belt
The drive belt is suspended around the washer drum via two pulleys, enabling the drum to spin via power from the motor. If this thin rubber belt breaks or loosens on the pulleys, you’ll find your washing machine drains but won’t spin or spins erratically. If the drive belt has stretched and loosened or has visible damage like cracks or tears, it requires replacement.
5. Whirlpool Washer Door Lock Broken
Front load washer pros and cons include its locking door. As a safety precaution, the door must be locked for the washer to spin and begin a wash cycle. However, if the door lock is broken, it won’t signal the washer to initiate a wash cycle and spin.
If you think a broken door lock is a reason for your Whirlpool washer not spinning, listen for an audible “click” when closing the washer door. If the lock doesn’t make this sound when the door closes, check it for visible damage or test it with a multimeter. If the lock components are damaged or show no continuity with multimeter testing, they must be replaced.
6. Washer Tub Bearing Failure
The tub bearing is in the middle of the washer’s outer tub, enabling the inner tub to spin smoothly. If it breaks or wears out, you’ll notice your Whirlpool front load washer not spinning even though it’s operating loudly.
A failed tub bearing is a complex repair that should be addressed by a professional washing machine repair service.
The technicians at Moore Appliance Service can fix a Whirlpool front load washer not spinning or address any other repair. Schedule your expert service today!
