There’s nothing quite as frustrating as a washing machine that won’t agitate. Your laundry routine can come to a screeching halt, leaving you with unwashed clothes.
But fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top eight reasons why your washing machine might not be agitating as it should. Stick around until the end for a crucial washer safety tip you might not even know. Let’s dive into the troubleshooting world and get that agitator spinning again!
Preparation for Troubleshooting
Before we begin our troubleshooting adventure, safety comes first! Ensure that your washing machine is unplugged or that the circuit breakers are switched off to prevent any chance of electrocution. Additionally, turn off the hot and cold water supply to your machine. With these precautions in place, we’re ready to delve into the heart of the matter: the agitator.
1. Agitator Inspection and Fixes
The agitator is the unsung hero of your washing machine, responsible for swirling your clothes into cleanliness. But it’s time for action when it won’t do its job.
Examine the Agitator Style
Begin by identifying the style of your agitator. Different types have been used over the years, ranging from one-piece agitators to those with upper and lower components. These agitators are typically found in the center of the inner tub of top-load washers.
Related Post: REPLACING AMANA WASHER’S AGITATOR ASSEMBLY: 9 EASY STEPS
Assess for Damage
If your washer isn’t agitating, check for damage in the lower part of the agitator where it attaches to the coupling. If this is the issue, replacement is likely necessary. For two-piece agitators, inspect both the base and upper parts for signs of wear or damage.
Consider Agitator Repair Kits
For those with rebuildable agitators, disassemble them to inspect their smaller components. Often, it’s the agitator dogs that require replacement. Luckily, agitator repair kits are available, containing all the parts that tend to wear out.
2. Agitator Coupling
Inspect the coupling that connects the drive shaft to the agitator. Look for any cracks or damaged splines. If it’s compromised, it needs replacing.
3. Verify Coupler Functionality
Examine the coupler mounted on the drive shaft. Worn-out splines or flats might cause the coupling to spin freely, leading to agitating issues. If this is the case, replacing the coupler is necessary.
4. Drive Belt Examination
The drive belt is a crucial component in the agitating process. So you have to be so careful.
Check the Drive Belt:
Inspect the drive belt connecting the motor pulley to the drive pulley. If the belt is broken, fallen off, or stretched beyond usefulness, your washer won’t agitate.
Look for belts located at the back of front loaders or the bottom of top loaders.
5. Door Latch Assembly Evaluation
A malfunctioning door latch assembly can also lead to agitating troubles.
Inspect the Door Latch Assembly
The door latch assembly ensures your washer knows when the door is closed. Different styles exist; if this component fails, the washer might not agitate.
On top loaders, it’s often behind the front panel, while front loaders have theirs inside the upper cabinet frame.
Motor Control Board Check
The motor control board is another potential source of agitating woes.
6. Motor Control Board
Modern washers often have a separate control board that manages the motor’s functions. Check the wiring connections and look for any signs of corrosion or damage. Consult your tech sheet and follow the troubleshooting steps to test the board if needed.
Location: So the washer won’t agitate on front loaders; they’re usually mounted on the bottom of the machine on the base. On-top loaders; they’re usually located inside the control panel.
What to do!
The first thing you want to do is check that the wiring connections to the board are in between the board and the motor and are plugged in. Securely also make sure there’s no corrosion or noticeable damage to any of the connections. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you have to get the text sheet and follow the troubleshooting steps to test the board on your specific model; if it fails, you’ll need to replace it.
7. Drive Motor Inspection
The drive motor is the powerhouse of your washing machine.
Examine the Drive Motor
A failed motor can result in a non-agitating washer. Check for any jams or blockages, and ensure it spins freely. It might be an issue if you hear only a humming noise when the motor tries to start. Test the motor electrically using your tech sheet or wiring diagram.
8. Water Level Switch Assessment
Last but not least, we’ll explore the water level switch.
Evaluate the Water Level Switch
The water level switch controls the amount of water entering your washer. Faulty contacts within the switch can prevent the motor from starting. Test the switch with a multimeter according to your wiring diagram and tech sheet instructions.
Fill Hose Inspection
Before concluding your troubleshooting journey, remember the often overlooked fill hoses.
Bonus Step: Fill Hose Inspection
Regularly inspect your washing machine’s fill hoses for signs of bulging, leaking, or corroded fittings. These hoses can flood your home with water if they burst. Upgrading to braided stainless steel hoses or hoses with auto shutoff features can prevent potential disasters.
Could a Not Filling Issue with My Amana Washing Machine Cause It to Not Agitate as Well?
Could a not filling issue with my Amana washing machine cause it to not agitate as well? If you are experiencing this problem, here are some amana washing machine troubleshooting tips to help you out. First, check the water supply to ensure it is uninterrupted. Then, inspect the water inlet valve for any clogs or damage. Additionally, verify if the lid switch is functioning properly. Finally, examine the motor and belt for any signs of wear or malfunction.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve successfully navigated the top eight reasons your washing machine might not be agitating. Armed with this knowledge, you can diagnose and fix the issue. Safety is paramount, so always follow proper precautions and consult your tech sheet for specific troubleshooting steps. With a little patience and some DIY spirit, you’ll have your washer back to agitating like a champ in no time!
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