Washer Won't Start

Make sure the door or lid is closed. Most machines will not run with the door or lid open.

The main control board might be defective. However, the main control board is rarely at fault for this symptom. Before replacing the main control board, first check all of the more commonly defective parts.

A washing machine drain pump assists in removing the water from the tub by forcing the water through a drain hose to a laundry tub or drain pipe. Since water may be drained from the tub multiple times during a wash cycle, a defective drain pump may prevent the washer from starting. If there is still water in the tub after the washer stops, inspect the drain pump for any obstruction. You can also use a multimeter to test the drain pump for electrical continuity to help determine if the pump is able to function or not.

Since a washing machine control board is responsible for sending voltage to nearly all of the washer's electrical components, a faulty board may cause the washer not to start. If the washer's entire display is not working, it's likely the control board is defective. You can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the power output terminals on the board after reviewing the appliance's wiring diagram.

The electrical outlet may not be getting power. To determine if the outlet is getting power, try plugging something else into the outlet. If the outlet is not getting power, check the home circuit breakers or fuses.

First ensure that power is getting to the electrical outlet. If the electrical outlet is receiving power, but the washer won’t start, the power cord might be defective. However, this is very rare. To determine if the power cord is defective, use a multimeter to test it for the cord for power. If the power cord is not getting power, replace it.

The door lock secures the washer door shut during operation. Once the washer door is closed, the washer can begin operating. If the washer door is not latched shut, the door switch will prevent the washer from operating. If the door lock is defective, the washer will not spin or start. The door lock can fail either mechanically or electrically. Inspect the door lock for damage. If the door lock is damaged or does not latch properly, replace it. To determine if the door lock has failed electrically, consult your washer’s wiring diagram and use a multimeter to test each of the door lock switches for continuity.