When performing basic washing machine repairs, the hardest part can be diagnosing rather than the actual repairing. As with any electrical appliance, you want to verify the power source. Is power getting to the washer? Check the power cord and the outlet. Also check for blown fuses. Once the power is eliminated as a problem, make sure the control is switched to ON and the door is able to completely close. The safety feature on washers can stop the cycle if the door latch is not securely in place.
Next, make sure that both the cold and hot water faucets are turned on. Check that the drain and return hoses are free of kinks. These steps will give you the answers to whether or not your problem is an easy fix or something that requires a little more work.
The washer cabinet has to be disassembled for many repair and maintenance issues. You MUST make sure the washer is unplugged and the water hoses are disconnected before doing any repairs.
If you have a repair or maintenance issue that requires disassembling the washer, here are the basic steps:
Remove the screws securing control panel. Remove the control panel and set aside. The washer control knobs are typically just pushed on a shaft on the control panel and can be pulled off. If the knob on your washer is secured, it will be by a small screw on the bottom of the knob. It can be removed with a screwdriver or allen wrench.
Remove the screws securing the service panel. Remove the service panel and set aside. Double check to make sure the washer is unplugged and all water is drained from the tub and hoses. To protect the washer’s surface you can lay down a blanket to set the washer on. The washer will need to be tipped over and laid on it’s front or side to have access from the bottom.
If it is necessary to also remove the top or side panel, this can be done by releasing the spring clips. To do this, place a putty knife in between the top and side panels and give a push. Once the spring clips are released, the top can be removed.
The water pump in a washing machine is in constant use and therefore receives the most wear and tear. Here are the steps for replacing the water pump:
1. Check and remove water drain hoses. Tip the washer over as explained above in the disassemble washer section. Remove the back panel. Even though the pump can be found near the bottom of the washer, it is easier to access from the back.
2. Spring or strap clips two large hoses to the water pump. Loosen the clips and disconnect the hoses.
3. Next, loosen the bolt that secures the drive belt and move the motor on the bracket until the belt loosens. You will then be able to move the motor out of the way to unbolt the pump. You will find two or three bolts on the bottom of the pump housing. When on the last bolt support the pump with your hand so it does not fall. Then remove the pump from the washer.
4. Set the new pump into position on the pump housing. Bolt it into place. Doing the opposite of the previous step, you will move the motor back into place and tighten the drive belt. Then reconnect the two hoses on the pump.
5. Replace back panel. Set washer upright. Reconnect hoses, turn on water faucets, and plug the washer in.
Maintaining and repairing your own washer will extend the life of your washing machine and give you the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
