Why is my washing machine not starting to wash?

Author: Ms. Georgette Jenkins MD  |  Last update: Thursday, January 1, 2026

There are several reasons why a washing machine might not start. It could be due to a power issue, a faulty start switch, door lock problems, or even issues with the control panel. Power supply: Ensure your washing machine is properly plugged in and the power supply is functioning.

Why is my washing machine not starting the wash cycle?

Cause 1: Unplugged power source. Cause 2: Overheated machine. Cause 3: Wrong settings. Cause 4: Malfunctioning lid switch.

How to fix a washing machine that won't wash?

What are the steps to fix a washing machine that won't wash?
  1. Step 1: Check the Power Supply. ...
  2. Step 2: Check the Water Supply. ...
  3. Step 3: Check the Detergent Dispenser. ...
  4. Step 4: Check the Drain Hose. ...
  5. Step 5: Check the Agitator. ...
  6. Step 6: Check the Belt. ...
  7. Step 7: Check the Motor.

How to fix washing machine won't start?

Try to unplug the washer for 5 minutes and see if the electronics will reset. Shut the door firmly and try to start it again. If it still won't work, the door latch assembly behind the front panel of the washer will need to be ordered and replaced because it doesn't think the door is shut so it won't start the cycle.

Why is my washing machine not starting but the lights are on?

If the lights on your washing machine come on but it won't begin the washing cycle, it's clear that power is going through to it. Therefore, the problem lies with the appliance itself. For safety reasons, modern washing machines are programmed to stop going into a cycle if the door is not shut properly.

Washer Won’t Start — Washing Machine Troubleshooting

What causes a washing machine not to cycle?

One common issue that can cause a washing machine's cycle to stop is the heater to stop working properly. To test this set your washer on a cycle and monitor it every so often, if the cycle stops within the first 30 minutes then the water likely isn't getting sufficiently heated.

How do you force a washing machine to reset?

To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.

Why wont my washing machine water start?

Before calling for repair, check simple issues like the lid being completely closed, water supply faucets being turned on, and hoses being free of kinks. Problems such as clogged water inlet screens, faulty water inlet valves, or broken wires could lead to a washing machine not filling with water.

Why is my washing machine humming but not starting?

To troubleshoot, ensure there are no blockages in the drum and that the door is firmly shut. Check the power supply and try resetting the machine. It's best to get help from a qualified expert for an accurate diagnosis and repair if the issue continues.

How long do washing machines last?

Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.

Why is my washing not washing?

A blocked detergent line or tray is the most likely reason for your washing machine not cleaning your clothes properly. Alternatively, there could be a blockage elsewhere, meaning that detergent, germs, dirt and grime will eventually build up and transfer onto your clothes.

What to check if the washing machine is not working?

Troubleshooting: Why Is My Washing Machine Not Turning On?
  1. Check the Power Cord. ...
  2. Reset the House Circuit Breaker. ...
  3. Test the Electrical Outlet. ...
  4. Check the Lid Switch. ...
  5. Examine Wiring Connections on the Control Board. ...
  6. Check the Electronic Control Board for Damage. ...
  7. Inspect the Control Panel. ...
  8. Have a Service Technician Fix the Washer.

Why is my washing machine filling up but not washing?

Check the direct drive motor coupling

If your machine fills and drains but won't agitate or spin, one or more of the components of the direct drive motor coupling may be damaged or worn out.

Why does my washer spin but not wash?

There is a chance that a faulty drive motor is the culprit when the washer won't agitate but spins. The motor drives the transmission that causes the agitator to oscillate. Diagnosing a defective drive motor is difficult and should be done by a technician.

Why wont my washing machine start but clicks?

If your washing machine won't start and just clicks, there may be debris in the washer drain. Check the drain to see if there's any debris (particularly large items, like coins) that may be stuck inside.

Why is my washer filled up but wont start?

If the Top Load Washer stops after filling with water, be sure to check the house circuit breaker/fuse as well as the outlet and plug.

Why is my washing machine humming but not agitating?

Why is my washing machine humming but not agitating? If your machine is humming but not agitating, it's likely that the washing machine pump is obstructed or damaged.

How do I know if my washing machine is clogged?

To check for clogs, loosen the clamp connecting the hose to the bottom of the tub, then inspect the inside. If you see something blocking the hose or its connecting parts, remove it with the pliers, then reconnect the hose.

What happens when your washer won't start?

There are several reasons why a washing machine might not start. It could be due to a power issue, a faulty start switch, door lock problems, or even issues with the control panel. Power supply: Ensure your washing machine is properly plugged in and the power supply is functioning.

Why is no water coming into my washing machine?

The most common reason is a problem with the water supply, or a blocked or kinked water supply hose. In this situation, the washing machine will drain for 3 minutes and the power button will be inoperative. In this case, please clean the debris filter and mesh filter.

Why is my washing machine humming but not filling with water?

If your appliance won't take water in and you hear this humming then it usually means there is a problem with the taps at the back of your machine. The gentle humming means that your washing machine's taps are trying to take water in but can't, so first things first you should check the taps.

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.

Why has my washing machine stopped washing?

These include an incoming power problem, a damaged power cord, a malfunctioning door lid switch or lock, a defective user control board or timer, a broken drive belt, or a faulty or obstructed drain pump.

How do you refresh a washing machine?

Use a combination of white vinegar and baking soda to naturally clean your washing machine; pour half a cup of baking soda into the drum followed by two cups of vinegar in the detergent dispenser, then run a hot wash cycle. For stubborn grime and odors, consider commercial washing machine cleaners.

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