Washing Machine Not Spinning

A washing machine that won't spin is one of the most common faults we see. Sometimes it's an easy fix you can do yourself – other times you'll need an engineer. Here's how to tell the difference.

Quick Checks First

Before calling for a repair, try these quick fixes:

1. Check the Load

An unbalanced load is the most common cause of spinning problems. The machine may refuse to spin to protect itself.

Try this:

• Open the door and redistribute clothes evenly
• Remove any items bunched on one side
• Don't overload – use the recommended capacity
• Mix large and small items together

2. Check the Door

The machine won't spin if it thinks the door isn't locked properly.

Try this:

• Ensure the door is fully closed
• Check nothing is trapped in the door seal
• Listen for the door lock clicking when you start a cycle

3. Check the Drain

If water can't drain, the machine won't spin.

Try this:

• Check for kinks in the drain hose
• Ensure the standpipe isn't blocked
• Clean the pump filter (usually at the bottom front)

Common Causes & Solutions

Worn Drive Belt

The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it's worn, stretched, or broken, the drum won't spin even though you can hear the motor running.

Signs:

• Motor runs but drum doesn't move
• Drum moves by hand but doesn't spin during cycle
• Burning rubber smell

DIY fix? Replacing a belt is possible if you're handy, but accessing it requires opening the machine.

Repair cost: From £80-120

Faulty Carbon Brushes

The carbon brushes transfer electricity to the motor. When they wear down, the motor can't run properly.

Signs:

• No spinning or slow spinning
• Machine stops mid-cycle
• Burning smell
• Visible sparks inside (rare)

DIY fix? Possible for the mechanically confident – brushes are relatively cheap parts.

Repair cost: From £70-100

Faulty Door Lock

If the door interlock fails, the machine won't spin for safety reasons.

Signs:

• Door doesn't lock when cycle starts
• No clicking sound when closing
• Error code displayed

DIY fix? No – requires electrical work.

Repair cost: From £80-120

Control Board Fault

The main PCB (control board) controls all functions. A fault here can cause spinning issues.

Signs:

• Random behaviour
• Multiple error codes
• Some cycles work, others don't

DIY fix? No – requires diagnosis and specialist parts.

Repair cost: From £150-250

When It's Definitely Time to Call an Engineer

Call us if:

• You've tried the quick fixes and nothing works
• You see error codes you can't clear
• There are unusual noises or burning smells
• The drum doesn't move at all

Get a Fixed Price Repair

Don't guess – get a fixed price quote for your washing machine repair. Our price includes diagnosis, parts, labour, and a 6-month guarantee.