A broken washing machine can bring your household to a standstill. Whether you’re dealing with a washing machine that won’t start, smells bad, or leaves puddles on your laundry room floor, understanding common issues can save you time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through typical washing machine problems homeowners face and help you determine when it’s time to call a qualified washing machine repair engineer.
Washing Machine Not Draining
One of the most frustrating issues is discovering your washing still sitting unrinsed in soapy water at the end of a cycle. A washing machine not draining properly is typically caused by a blockage or pump failure.
Simple checks you can do:
Start by checking the drain hose for kinks or obstructions. The filter, usually located at the front bottom of the machine behind a small panel, often collects coins, buttons, and lint that can prevent proper drainage. Turn off and unplug your machine, place towels on the floor, and carefully unscrew the filter. Clean out any debris, then try running a drain cycle.
When to call an engineer:
If you’ve cleared the filter and hose but your washing machine still won’t drain, the pump itself may have failed. This requires specialist knowledge to diagnose and replace. A trusted repair company can quickly identify whether the pump, control board, or pressure switch is at fault.
Washing Machine Not Spinning
When your washing machine won’t spin, you’re left with soaking wet clothes and a real inconvenience. This problem can stem from several causes, from simple load imbalances to more complex motor issues.
Simple checks you can do:
First, try redistributing the load. Modern machines have safety features that prevent spinning when clothes are bunched on one side. Also check that you haven’t accidentally selected a no-spin or delicate cycle. A blocked filter can also prevent spinning, so refer to the drainage section above.
When to call an engineer:
If your machine still refuses to spin after these checks, you may be dealing with a faulty door lock, worn drive belt, or motor problems. These repairs require professional appliance troubleshooting and shouldn’t be attempted without proper training and tools.
Washing Machine Leaking
Finding water pooling around your washing machine is alarming (as well as messy), but washing machine leaking issues can sometimes have straightforward solutions.
Simple checks you can do:
Inspect all hose connections at the back of the machine to ensure they’re tight and the rubber washers haven’t perished. Check the detergent drawer isn’t blocked with old powder residue, which can cause overflows. Also verify you’re not overloading the machine or using too much detergent, both of which can create excessive suds and result in water leaks.
When to call an engineer:
Leaks from underneath the machine, around the door seal, or from internal components indicate more serious problems. Worn door seals, damaged drums, or failed internal hoses need professional washing machine repair. Continuing to use a leaking machine can cause water damage to your home and worsen the underlying fault.
Washing Machine Smells
A washing machine that smells musty or unpleasant is a common problem which affects many UK households, particularly with modern, energy-efficient washing machine models that wash your laundry at low temperatures.
Simple checks you can do:
Run a hot service wash (90°C) with no clothes using either a specialist washing machine cleaner or white vinegar. Wipe around the door seal, checking for trapped debris, mould, or foreign objects. Leave the door open between washes to allow air circulation. Clean the detergent drawer thoroughly and ensure you’re using the correct amount of detergent for your water hardness.
When to call an engineer:
Persistent smells despite regular cleaning could indicate a drainage problem, blocked internal pipes, or issues with the pump. A qualified engineer can identify hidden problems that home maintenance can’t resolve.
Door Lock Faults
A washing machine that won’t start because the door won’t lock, or conversely won’t open when the cycle finishes, is a common frustration.
Simple checks you can do:
If the door won’t close, check nothing is trapped in the seal or door mechanism. Sometimes clothes can prevent proper closure. If the machine has finished but won’t open, wait a few minutes as many models have a cooling period before unlocking. Turn the machine off at the wall, wait two minutes, then try again.
When to call an engineer:
A faulty door interlock mechanism is a safety feature and must work correctly. If the door lock itself has failed, or if electrical faults are preventing proper locking, you’ll need professional home appliance repair. Never force a washing machine door as this can cause expensive damage.
When DIY Isn’t Enough
While basic appliance troubleshooting can resolve minor issues, many washing machine problems require the expertise of a qualified professional. Attempting complex repairs yourself can void warranties, create safety hazards, and potentially make the problem worse.
Warning signs you need emergency appliance repairs include burning smells, electrical sparking, excessive vibration, loud grinding noises, or error codes you can’t resolve through the manual. These issues shouldn’t be ignored as they can indicate serious faults that pose fire or flood risks.
Finding a Trusted Local Washing Machine Repair Service
When your washing machine breaks down, you need fast, reliable, and affordable appliance repair. Choosing a local repair service means quicker response times and support from washing machine repair engineers near you who understand the needs of your community.
Look for repair companies that offer transparent pricing, qualified technicians, and genuine replacement parts. A reputable washing machine engineer will diagnose the fault honestly and advise whether repair or replacement makes better economic sense for your situation.
If you live in Wiltshire call the Domestic Appliance Doctor whose repair engineers cover all makes and models of washing machines, from Bosch and Beko to Hotpoint, Siemens, and Miele. working in and around Trowbridge and nearby towns like Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Warminster, and Westbury.
Besides washing machine repairs, the Domestic Appliance Doctor also offers fast, reliable repairs for other domestic appliances, including tumble dryers dishwashers, electric ovens, hobs and cookers, and even vacuum cleaners. Follow the link to see all their appliance repair services.