Washer Not Spinning All the Water Out: Troubleshooting Guide
Quick answer
Ensure the washer is balanced and not overloaded. Check the drain pump for clogs. Verify the spin speed setting is correct. If issues persist, inspect the lid switch or motor coupling.
Confirm the symptom
- Clothes are still damp after a full wash cycle
- Washer completes cycle but doesn't spin out water effectively
- Spin cycle runs but doesn't remove much water
- Drain pump makes noise but water remains in the drum
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver — To access panels and components
- Flashlight — To inspect dark areas inside the washer
- Plunger — To unclog the drain pump
- Socket wrench — To remove drain pump or motor parts
- Work gloves — For safety when handling parts
Disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases via affiliate links. Learn more.
Prep & safety
- Unplug the washer to avoid electrical hazards.
- Ensure the washer is on a level surface.
- Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Check Load Balance
Do: Open the washer and redistribute the load evenly in the drum.
Observe: Drum spins smoothly without wobbling.
Means: The load was uneven, causing the washer to stop spinning for safety.
Next: If balanced and still not spinning, proceed to next step.
Verify Spin Speed Setting
Do: Check the spin speed setting on the washer's control panel.
Observe: Spin speed is set to a high enough setting (e.g., 1200 RPM or higher).
Means: Low spin speed setting may not remove all water.
Next: If spin speed is correct, proceed to next step.
Inspect Drain Pump
Do: Locate the drain pump and check for clogs using a flashlight.
Observe: No visible debris or blockages in the drain pump.
Means: A clogged drain pump can prevent proper water removal.
Next: If clogged, proceed to next step.
Unclog Drain Pump
Do: Use a plunger to clear any blockages in the drain pump.
Observe: Water drains freely from the pump.
Means: Clogs were preventing water from draining during the spin cycle.
Next: If unclogged and still not spinning, proceed to next step.
Check Lid Switch
Do: Ensure the lid is fully closed and the lid switch is functioning.
Observe: Lid switch clicks when closed and the washer starts the spin cycle.
Means: A faulty lid switch may prevent the washer from spinning.
Next: If lid switch is faulty, proceed to next step.
Inspect Motor Coupling
Do: Unplug the washer and remove the front panel to inspect the motor coupling.
Observe: Motor coupling is intact and not broken.
Means: A broken motor coupling can prevent the drum from spinning.
Next: If motor coupling is broken, consider replacing it.
Common causes table
| Cause | Why | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unbalanced Load | Washer stops spinning to prevent damage from imbalance. | High | Low | N/A |
| Low Spin Speed Setting | Insufficient spin speed may not remove all water. | Medium | Low | N/A |
| Clogged Drain Pump | Blockages prevent water from draining during spin cycle. | High | Medium | Drain Pump |
| Faulty Lid Switch | Lid switch prevents washer from spinning if not functioning. | Medium | Medium | Lid Switch |
| Broken Motor Coupling | Motor coupling connects motor to drum; if broken, drum won't spin. | Medium | High | Motor Coupling |
| Faulty Motor or Drive System | Internal motor or drive issues can prevent proper spinning. | Low | High | Motor or Drive System |
Parts matching
When replacing parts, ensure they match your washer's model and specifications.
- Drain Pump: model number and compatibility with your washer brand
- Lid Switch: electrical rating and mounting hole size
- Motor Coupling: length and spline count to match original part
- Drive System: voltage and horsepower rating for your washer
Check the manufacturer's website for exact part numbers and compatibility information.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases via affiliate links. Learn more.
When to call a pro
- If the washer still doesn't spin after checking all basic issues
- If you're unsure about electrical components or motor repairs
- If the washer is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it
- If you hear unusual noises from the motor or drive system
- If the problem involves internal components like the control board
FAQ
Why does my washer spin but not drain all the water?
This could be due to a clogged drain pump, low spin speed setting, or an unbalanced load.
Can a faulty lid switch prevent the washer from spinning?
Yes, a faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from entering the spin cycle for safety reasons.
How do I know if the motor coupling is broken?
A broken motor coupling may cause the washer to make a loud noise or fail to spin the drum at all.
Is it worth replacing a broken motor coupling?
Yes, replacing a broken motor coupling is usually more cost-effective than replacing the entire washer.