Washer Won't Stop Running

Quick answer

Turn off the washer at the circuit breaker to stop it immediately. Check for a clogged drain pump, faulty water level sensor, or control board issues. Reset the machine after clearing any blockages.

Confirm the symptom

• Washer continues to fill or spin without stopping
• Control panel shows no error but machine won't stop
• Drain pump is running but water isn't draining
• Washer restarts cycles after pausing

Tools and prep

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Flashlight
• Plumber's putty or tape
• Bucket for water collection
• Multimeter (optional for testing sensors)
• Turn off power at the circuit breaker
• Shut off water supply valves

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Check Drain Pump
   Do: Locate the drain pump (usually at the front or bottom of the washer) and inspect for clogs.
   Observe: Debris or lint blocking the pump impeller.
   Means: Clogged drain pump prevents water from draining, causing the machine to think it's still filling.
   Next: Clean the pump and restart the washer.
2. Inspect Water Level Sensor
   Do: Check the water level sensor and its hose for cracks or leaks.
   Observe: Water pooling around the sensor or a disconnected hose.
   Means: A faulty sensor can send incorrect signals to the control board.
   Next: Replace the sensor if damaged.
3. Reset the Washer
   Do: Unplug the washer or turn off power at the circuit breaker for 1 minute.
   Observe: Machine powers off completely.
   Means: A reset can clear temporary glitches in the control system.
   Next: Plug in and restart the washer to see if it completes the cycle.
4. Test Control Board
   Do: Look for visible damage on the control board (burn marks, swollen capacitors).
   Observe: Signs of electrical damage or error codes on the display.
   Means: A malfunctioning control board may fail to send stop signals.
   Next: Replace the control board if damaged.
5. Check Door Latch Switch
   Do: Ensure the door is fully closed and the latch switch is engaged.
   Observe: Door light not illuminating or the washer not starting.
   Means: A faulty door switch can prevent the washer from recognizing the door is closed.
   Next: Replace the door latch assembly if necessary.
6. Verify Water Inlet Valve
   Do: Inspect the water inlet valve for mineral buildup or blockages.
   Observe: Reduced water flow or inconsistent filling.
   Means: A clogged inlet valve can cause the washer to overfill or run continuously.
   Next: Clean or replace the inlet valve.

Common causes

Parts matching

If you need replacement parts, match your washer's make and model to the correct components:

• Drain Pump Filter – Often clogged with lint or debris
• Water Level Sensor – May need replacement if cracked or leaking
• Control Board – Required if there are visible burn marks or error codes
• Door Latch Assembly – Needed if the door doesn't close properly
• Water Inlet Valve – Replace if water flow is inconsistent
• Pump Motor – May be required if the drain pump is damaged

Keep your washer's model number handy to ensure accurate part compatibility.

When to call a professional

• The washer still won't stop after cleaning the drain pump and resetting it
• You notice a burning smell or sparks from the control board
• You're uncomfortable working with electrical components
• Error codes persist after replacing suspected parts
• Water is leaking from the machine despite checking connections

FAQ

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