What is the most common problem with a washing machine top-loader?

Author: Jade Daugherty  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 2, 2025

A washing machine not draining is one of the most common problems we encounter. It can be caused by one of the following: - The drain hose or pump is clogged with a small item of clothing, residual gunk or other debris. - The washer is malfunctioning and not engaging the drain/spin cycle properly.

What usually fails on a washing machine top loader?

Here are some of the parts that tend to fail first: Water Pump: Responsible for draining water from the drum. Clogs and wear can lead to failure, causing leaks or drainage issues. Door Lock/Switch: Ensures the door is securely closed during operation. If it malfunctions, the machine may not start or may stop mid-cycle.

What is the life expectancy of a top loading washing machine?

Average Lifespan of a Washing Machine

Faulty water or power lines and defective machines could land your washing machine on the lower end of that estimate. Top-load washing machines are the traditional and classic style, often lasting up to 15 years. However, they are prone to overloading, which creates malfunctions.

What brand of washer has the least problems?

Appliance repair technicians and our product experts agree: Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung are the most reliable brands of washers has least repairs.

What is a master reset on a washing machine?

I read the instructions of the Master Reset: “To perform a Master Reset, carefully unplug the washing machine from the power outlet and leave it unplugged for one minute. After one minute is up, plug the washer cord back into the wall.

10 Most Common Problems With Laundry Washing Machines

Does unplugging a washer reset it?

If you want to try resolving issues with your washing machine, such as power surges or error codes, it's possible you might need to perform a quick reset. One way you can reset a washer is by unplugging the unit for at least one minute, then plugging it back in and restarting the appliance.

What happens when you do a master reset?

A factory data reset erases your data from the phone. While data stored in your Google Account can be restored, all apps and their data will be uninstalled. To be ready to restore your data, make sure that it's in your Google Account. Learn how to back up your data.

What brand of washing machine do repairmen recommend?

What washers do repairmen recommend? Whirlpool and LG were the two washing machine brands recommended by Puls who said they had the fewest problems and were the cheapest to repair, on average. Maytag came in at third.

How long should a washing machine last?

Average washing machine lifespan

Well, this figure obviously varies depending on lots of different factors - including brand, model, how you use it, and how well you maintain it. But generally, if you look after your washing machine properly you should it expect it to last anywhere between 7 and 12 years.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

What are the best top loading washing machines?

6 Best Top-Loading Washing Machines, Tested by Cleaning Experts
  • Best Overall. Maytag Top-Load 5.2 cu. ft. Capacity Agitator Washer. Read more.
  • Best Value. LG TurboWash 5.5-cu ft High Efficiency Impeller Smart Top-Load Washer. Read more.
  • Most Innovative. Whirlpool Top-Load Washer with 2-in-1 Removable Agitator. Read more.

What are the disadvantages of top loading washing machine?

The Cons: Lower water efficiency: Top-loaders typically use more water compared to front-load washers. This can lead to higher utility bills and a larger environmental footprint over time. Smaller capacity: Drum capacity is frequently lower for top-load washing machines compared to front-loaders.

Should I get a top loader with an agitator or not?

Agitator washers are typically more traditional, tend to use more water and may have shorter cycles, ideal for heavily soiled loads. Impeller washers often use less water and motion and may have larger capacities, making them perfect for bulky items and delicates.

What is the most common problem with whirlpool washers?

A start button on your washer's control panel not working despite the rest of the lights coming on is the most common Whirlpool washer issue you will encounter. Taking off the control panel to try and find the cause will let you see if the solution can be DIYed, or a professional needs to be called.

What is the thing in the middle of a top-load washer?

Agitators are a central post in a washer that twists back and forth to rub against clothes and help break apart stains. If you're looking for a washing machine that uses less water, try one with an impeller. A washing machine with an agitator is probably the style you're most familiar with.

Which is the most reliable washing machine brand?

LG washing machines are renowned for being incredibly durable and technologically advanced, while still boasting affordable price tags. Bosch washing machines cost a little bit more, but they are some of the best around. The brand has also been around for more than 100 years. You can count on them!

Who is the king of washing machine?

James King in 1851 created the first washing machine to use a drum, Hamilton Smith in 1858 patented a rotary version, and in 1868 Thomas Bradford, a British inventor, created a commercially successful machine that resembles the modern device.

Which washing machine is best, LG or Whirlpool?

LG generally offers more advanced and varied wash cycles, including options specifically tailored for different fabric types and stains, compared to Whirlpool's more standard but effective cycles.

Which washing machine has the fewest repairs?

When it comes to reliability, LG consistently takes the lead. Renowned in surveys by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, LG washing machines boast low repair rates and a plethora of features.

Is Maytag or Whirlpool better quality?

If you're looking for a machine that will last for many years and can handle heavy use, Maytag may be worth the higher upfront cost. If you want a more affordable option with modern features and good energy efficiency, Whirlpool is an excellent choice.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

Does a factory reset really delete everything?

A factory reset should be a user's last resort because it completely removes all applications, data, etc., from the device.

What is the difference between a hard reset and a master reset?

Things You Should Know

A hard reset is forcing your phone to restart when it's unresponsive. A factory reset is the process of restoring your phone to its original settings, like when you bought it. Factory resetting erases everything on your device, while a hard reset simply reboots it.

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