Common Washing Machine Faults & How to Fix Them | Domestic Appliances Installation
Is your washing machine not working as it should? Washing machines are essential household appliances, but like any machine, they can develop faults over time. Understanding common washing machine problems can save you time, money, and stress. At Domestic Appliance Installation I’ve put together this guide to help you identify and address frequent washing machine issues.
Top 10 Most Common Washing Machine Faults
1. Washing Machine Won’t Start
If your washing machine doesn’t turn on, it might be due to:
A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
A faulty power switch or control board
Door not properly closed (most machines won’t start unless the door is securely shut)
✅ Quick Tip: Check your power source and door latch.
2. Washing Machine Not Spinning
This is one of the most reported washing machine issues and can be caused by:
Unbalanced loads
Worn motor brishes
Faulty motor
💡 Pro Tip: Redistribute heavy loads and try again. If the issue persists, professional repair may be needed.
3. Water Not Draining Properly
A washer that won’t drain can leave clothes soaking wet. Common causes include:
Clogged or kinked drain hose
Blocked pump filter
Broken drain pump
🛠️ Solution: Clean the pump filter and inspect the drain hose. If unsure, book a repair.
4. Washer Is Leaking Water
Leaks can come from:
A damaged door seal or gasket
Loose hoses or connectors
Split pipe
📍 Check: Look under and around your washer for the exact source of the leak.
5. Excessive Noise or Vibrations
Loud noises or strong vibrations usually mean:
The machine is not level
Drum bearings are worn
Loose objects stuck in the drum (coins, buttons)
🎧 Fix: Make sure the washer is on a flat surface and remove any foreign objects.
6. Bad Odors Coming From the Washer
Musty smells are caused by:
Mould and mildew buildup on door seal
Using too much detergent
Washing mostly cold loads
🌿 Maintenance Tip: Run a hot wash with washing machine cleaner once a month.
7. Washer Door Won’t Open
This usually happens when:
The cycle hasn't finished
Water is still inside the drum
The door lock mechanism is faulty
🔒 Warning: Never force the door open. Use the manual release or call a technician.
8. Clothes Come Out Still Dirty
If your clothes aren't getting clean:
You might be overloading the washer
Detergent might not be effective
Water may not be heating
👕 Fix: Try smaller loads and clean the detergent drawer.
9. Machine Stuck on a Cycle
Common reasons include:
Faulty control board
Sensor issues
Software glitches
🧠 Try This: Unplug the washer for 10 minutes to reset it. If the issue continues, call a professional.
10. Error Codes on Display
Modern washing machines display error codes when something is wrong. These codes can indicate:
Water flow problems
Drainage issues
Motor or sensor faults
📘 What To Do: Refer to your manual for the code's meaning, or contact a technician with the code for faster diagnosis.
Need Professional Washing Machine Repair?
At Domestic Appliance Installation, I offer fast, reliable, and affordable washing machine repair services. Whether it's a top-loader, front-loader, or integrated unit, I can diagnose and fix the issue quickly.
✅ Why Choose Me?
Same-day service available
Fully insured
Fixed Callout/Labour cost – no hidden fees
All major brands repaired
📞 Call us today at 07365865653 or Book a service online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I repair a washing machine myself?
A: Simple issues like clogged filters or drain hoses can be DIY. For electrical or motor-related problems, it’s best to call a professional.
Q: How much does a washing machine repair cost?
A: It depends on the fault and the parts needed. Most repairs range from £60 to £120.
Q: How long should a washing machine last?
A: Impossible to say but regular maintenance .
Contact Us
Got a faulty washer? Let us take care of it.
📍 Worcestershire
📞 Phone: 07365865653
📧 Email: jon@d-a-i.co.uk