If you have a Whirlpool washer that is not spinning, it can be a frustrating problem. Proper spinning is essential to wringing excess water out of clothes and ensuring they are not sodden after the wash cycle. When the washer won’t spin, clothes sit wet in the machine, which can lead to mildew and bacteria growth.
Fortunately, there are a number of potential causes for a Whirlpool top-load or front-load washer not spinning. With some troubleshooting and repair, you can likely get your washer spinning again. Here is an overview of the most common reasons a Whirlpool washer won’t spin along with steps to diagnose and fix the problem.
Common Causes for a Whirlpool Washer Not Spinning
There are a variety of parts in a Whirlpool washer that could cause spinning problems when faulty. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Faulty lid switch: The lid switch is a safety device that prevents the washer from spinning when the lid is open. If the switch malfunctions, the machine may not spin even when the lid is closed.
- Bad actuator: The actuator communicates information between the washer components. If it is defective, the washer may not spin properly.
- Damaged motor coupler: This small part connects the motor to the drive shaft. If it is broken, the motor cannot power the drum to spin.
- Failed drive belt: Top-load washers use a belt to rotate the drum. A broken or loose belt will prevent spinning.
- Weak drum supports: With front-load washers, failed supports can prevent the drum from spinning smoothly.
- Faulty door lock: Front-load washers will not spin with the door unlocked as a safety precaution. A bad door lock switch will stop spinning.
- Clogged drain pump: If the drain pump cannot empty the wash drum, the extra weight of water will prevent spinning.
- Unbalanced load: If clothes are packed unevenly, the washer may not spin in an effort to prevent vibration and shaking.
Diagnosing the Cause of a Whirlpool Washer Not Spinning
Pinpointing the exact cause of your Whirlpool washer’s spinning problem is the first step in repairing the issue. Start troubleshooting by performing the following checks:
Inspect the Lid Switch
The lid switch is one of the most likely causes of a top-load washer not spinning. When you close the lid, you should hear an audible click as the switch toggles. If no click is heard, the switch is likely faulty. Visually inspect the switch on the washer body near the lid hinge for damage.
Check Error Codes
Many newer Whirlpool washers have built-in self-diagnostics that generate error codes to identify faults. Check your owner’s manual for how to access error codes on your model. Error codes pointing to spinning problems include F7E1, F7E5, and more depending on model.
Test Motor and Spin Function
Set your washer to a spin-only cycle. If it does not start spinning, the motor, actuator, or coupler is likely faulty. If it spins but seems weak, problems with the motor are indicated. Listen for odd noises during the cycle as well.
Examine the Drive Belt
For top-load washers using a drive belt, remove the cabinet back panel to visually inspect the belt. Check for cracking, looseness, or detachment. Move the belt by hand to check for stiffness and slipping.
Assess Drum Support
For front-load washers, check the drum bearings and supports by removing the front panel. Move the drum up and down by hand. If motion feels rough or uneven, the bearings or supports need replacement.
Test Door Lock
Check that the door firmly locks and the washer recognizes it as locked. Try jiggling the door while on a spin cycle. If the drum stops spinning, a faulty door lock is likely preventing normal operation.
By methodically testing washer components and functions, you can determine why your Whirlpool washer won’t spin. Once the issue is identified, repairs can be made.
How to Fix a Whirlpool Washer That Won’t Spin
When you’ve diagnosed the cause of the spinning problem, you can move forward with repairs. Here are tips to fix common issues:
Replace Lid Switch
Removing and replacing the lid switch is relatively simple. Locate the switch on the top rim of the washer body near the lid hinge. Remove any screws or brackets securing the switch in place. Unplug the electrical connections and detach the switch. Install the new switch, reconnect wires, and test for proper operation.
Replace Actuator and Control Board
If error codes point to a bad actuator, follow instructions to remove the washer top or front panel to access components. Unplug all wires from the actuator, unscrew the mounting screws, and remove it. Install the new actuator and reconnect wires in their proper ports. You may also need to replace the control board if it is damaged.
Fix Motor Coupler
The motor coupler is located between the motor and drive shaft toward the bottom rear of the machine. Remove the back service panel to access it. Detach the coupler from the shafts. Attach the new coupler and check that the motor turns it without slippage.
Mend or Replace Drive Belt
For belt-drive washers, remove the rear panel to access components. Check if the belt is broken or just loose. Detach the old belt from pulleys and replace it with a new one of the same size and type. Adjust belt tension as needed.
Replace Drum Bearings/Supports
To replace drum supports in a front-load washer, remove the front cover panel for access. Detach any straps, screws, or clamps holding the supports in place. Remove and replace both bearing supports and reassemble the washer. Test drum spinning before replacing panels.
Swap Out Door Lock
The door lock assembly is located inside the washer door. Remove screws or brackets to detach the lock from the door. Disconnect any electrical plugs. Mount the new door lock, reconnect wires, and test operation. The washer should now spin with the door firmly closed and locked.
With the proper replacement parts and some mechanical skill, you can usually repair a Whirlpool washer that is not spinning to working order again. Always double check that the washer spins correctly after finishing repairs before using it for laundry again.
Preventing Future Whirlpool Washer Spinning Problems
While washer parts can fail through normal wear and tear, you can take steps to prevent spinning problems and keep your Whirlpool washer running smoothly:
- Leave the lid open – This allows air circulation to prevent mold and mildew growth in the wash drum.
- Wipe seals and gaskets – Cleaning the door seal and gasket prevents leaks and damage that can stop spinning.
- Level the washer – An uneven washer may vibrate excessively and eventually fail to spin well.
- Load evenly – Balancing wash loads prevents undue strain during spinning.
- Avoid overloading – Overstuffing the drum puts strain on washer components.
- Use gentle cycles – The high speed of spin cycles contributes to eventual wear of parts. Use gentler wash/spin settings when possible.
- Clean wash drum – Remove built-up dirt and debris to avoid fouling moving parts.
- Unplug when not in use – This prevents electrical surges from damaging control boards and other parts.
With proper maintenance and care, your Whirlpool top-load or front-load washer should give years of trouble-free spinning performance. But when problems do arise, this guide will help you accurately diagnose the cause and make necessary repairs. With a few tools and replacement parts, you can often fix your Whirlpool washer not spinning issue and have it functioning like normal again.
Making Repairs
Once I know the issue, it’s time to make the repair. I like keeping a stock of common Whirlpool washer parts like switches, belts, actuators and couplers. Replacing failed components is very satisfying. I take pride in my workmanship when installing new parts neatly and properly.
I’m always careful to thoroughly test the washer before returning it to the customer. Nothing beats that look of happiness when they see their washer spinning smoothly again after my repairs!
Comparative Table of Whirlpool Washer Spinning Fixes
| Issue | Diagnosis | Repair | Difficulty |
| Lid switch failure | No click when lid closed | Replace switch | Easy |
| Bad actuator | Error code | Replace actuator | Moderate |
| Broken coupler | Loose drum, rattling | Replace coupler | Easy |
| Worn drive belt | Belt loose or broken | Replace drive belt | Easy |
| Weak drum supports | Uneven drum movement | Replace drum supports | Hard |
This table summarizes my experience with common spinning issues. As you can see, most are straightforward repairs I can tackle efficiently.
Conclusion
While a Whirlpool washer not spinning can be a nuisance, my years of experience allow me to get the washer operating properly again. I enjoy the challenge of diagnosing the issue based on tests and visual inspection. Replacing any worn or failed parts is very satisfying, as is seeing the happy customer once repairs are made. With proper maintenance and care, Whirlpool washers can have long, useful lives!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I determine why my Whirlpool washer won’t spin?
A: Check the lid switch, run diagnostics for error codes, inspect components like the motor coupler, test the door lock, and look for obvious issues like broken drive belts. Analyze whether the drum attempts to spin or not at all.
Q: Where can I find replacement Whirlpool washer parts?
A: Many appliance parts suppliers online and locally stock common Whirlpool washer repair parts like lid switches, drive belts, actuators and door locks. Consult your model number to ensure you get the correct replacement part.
Q: Should I replace both drum supports if one fails?
A: Yes, if one drum support bearing fails, the other is likely worn as well. Replacing both ensures proper balance and extends the repair lifespan.
Q: My washer spins but makes loud noises, what should I check?
A: Noisy operation during spin cycles can indicate worn bearings, bad motor couplers, loose bolts or other issues. Inspect moving parts and listen closely to pinpoint the source.
Q: Why does my washer only spin slowly or not complete cycles?
A: This could be due to an unbalanced load, heavy buildup of dirt inside the drum, issues with motor or transmission function, or problems with the control board programming.
Let me know if you have any other washer spinning questions! I’m always happy to share my repair knowledge.