The most common reason why your top load washing machine is not washing is because of a faulty lid switch. This switch prevents the washer from spinning or agitating when the lid is open, and it can wear out over time or get damaged by slamming the lid. If the lid switch is broken, the washer will fill with water but not wash the clothes. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the lid switch or have a professional do it for you.
However, there are other possible causes of your top load washing machine not washing, and you should check them before you decide to replace the lid switch. Here are some of the other things you should look for:
Clogged or kinked drain hose. If the drain hose is clogged or kinked, the water will not drain properly from the washer, and it may stop the wash cycle. You can check the drain hose by disconnecting it from the back of the washer and running water through it. If the water flows freely, the drain hose is not the problem. If the water is blocked, you will need to clear the clog or straighten the hose.
Faulty water inlet valve. The water inlet valve controls the water flow into the washer, and it can get clogged by mineral deposits or debris. If the water inlet valve is faulty, the washer may not fill with enough water or fill with water at the wrong temperature. You can test the water inlet valve by turning off the water supply and disconnecting the hoses from the back of the washer. Then, use a multimeter to check the resistance of the valve coils. If the resistance is not within the normal range, you will need to replace the water inlet valve or have a professional do it for you.
Worn or broken drive belt. The drive belt connects the motor to the transmission and the agitator, and it can wear out or break over time. If the drive belt is worn or broken, the washer will not spin or agitate the clothes. You can check the drive belt by removing the back panel or the cabinet of the washer and inspecting the belt for signs of damage. If the belt is loose, frayed, or broken, you will need to replace it or have a professional do it for you.
Malfunctioning timer or control board. The timer or the control board regulates the cycles and functions of the washer, and they can malfunction due to power surges, water damage, or wear and tear. If the timer or the control board is malfunctioning, the washer may not start, stop, or complete the wash cycle. You can test the timer or the control board by using a multimeter to check the voltage and continuity of the wires and terminals. If the voltage or continuity is not correct, you will need to replace the timer or the control board or have a professional do it for you.
These are some of the most common reasons why your top load washing machine is not washing, and how you can troubleshoot and fix them. By following these steps, you can save time and money and get your washer working again. However, if you are not confident or comfortable with doing these repairs yourself, you should always contact a qualified technician to do it for you. Remember, safety first!
I hope this article was helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!
