Washing Machine Problems and Solutions
Most washing machine faults have a simple cause you can check at home in a few minutes. Switch off and unplug the machine before you check anything inside it.
Updated 11 November 2026
Washing machine not taking water
- Is the tap fully open and is water reaching it?
- Is the inlet hose bent or kinked?
- Clean the small mesh filter where the hose joins the machine.
- On automatics, weak pressure from an overhead tank makes the fill time out; a booster pump helps.
This is the most common complaint for Dawlance and Haier automatics.
Washing machine not spinning
- Spread the clothes evenly; an unbalanced load stops the spin.
- Close the lid fully; the lid switch must click.
- Drain fully first; most machines will not spin with water in the tub.
- Twin tub: check that the spin lid brake and safety cover are in place.
- If the motor hums but the drum does not turn, the belt, capacitor or clutch may need a mechanic.
Advertisement
Not draining
Check the drain hose for kinks and that its end is not higher than the machine allows. Clean the drain or pump filter (front loaders usually have a small door at the bottom front). Remove coins, hair clips and lint.
Noise and shaking
Level the machine with its adjustable feet. Remove transit bolts on a new front loader. Do not run a few heavy items alone; add towels to balance the load.
Water leaking
Tighten hose connections, check the door rubber on front loaders and do not use too much detergent, which makes foam spill out.
Bad smell
Leave the lid or door open after each wash, wipe the door rubber, clean the lint filter and run a hot or tub clean cycle monthly.
Error codes
If the display shows a code, look it up in our washing machine error codes guide. In Roman Urdu: washing machine ki kharabi.
Know the parts before you call a mechanic
Telling a mechanic which part you suspect saves time. A motor that hums but does not turn often points to the capacitor; a drum that turns slowly often points to the belt; water that will not come in points to the inlet valve or filter. Our washing machine parts and functions guide explains each part in simple words.
Related pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my washing machine not spinning but the motor is running?
Often an unbalanced load, an open lid switch, or water left in the tub. If those are fine, the belt or clutch may be worn.
What to do if a washing machine was not used for 2 years?
Check hoses for cracks, clean filters, then run an empty hot or tub clean cycle before washing clothes. Watch for leaks on the first run.
Is it worth repairing an old washing machine?
If the fix is a hose, filter, belt or capacitor, yes. If the tub, gearbox or control board fails on a very old machine, a new machine is often the better spend.
How do I fix a washing machine that won't spin?
Spread the load evenly, close the lid fully, and check the drain is clear. If the motor hums but the drum does not turn, the belt, capacitor or lid switch may be faulty.
Why does my Haier top load washing machine not spin?
Usually an uneven load, a lid not fully closed, or water not draining first. Clean the drain path and restart a Spin program.
Why does my washing machine not drain or spin?
A blocked drain hose or filter, or a failed drain pump. The machine will not spin until the water drains.
How long do washing machines last?
With care, often 8 to 12 years. Twin tubs can last longer because they are simpler.
How do I check a washing machine capacitor?
Unplug the machine first. A bulging or leaking capacitor is bad. To test it, a technician uses a multimeter with a capacitance setting and compares the reading with the value printed on it.
How do I remove rust from a washing machine?
Rub light rust with baking soda paste or a rust remover, rinse and dry, then touch up with appliance paint. If the drum or tub itself is rusting, it is usually time for a new machine.
How do I reset a washing machine?
Turn it off, unplug it for about 5 to 10 minutes and plug it back in. This clears most control board faults. Then start a short program to test it.
Why is my washing machine leaking from the bottom?
The usual causes are a loose inlet or drain hose, a cracked drain hose, a worn pump seal or, on front loaders, a torn door seal. Check the hoses first because they are the easiest to fix.
How do I know if my washing machine motor is burnt?
Signs are a burning smell, a humming sound with no movement, or the fuse tripping when the motor starts. A technician can test the motor windings to be sure.
