Dealing with a washer that won’t drain or spin can be frustrating. It’s like trying to start a car with an empty gas tank – you need fuel to fix the problem. In this post, we’ll dive into the common reasons behind this pesky problem and equip you with practical solutions to fix your washing machine’s spin cycle.
From clogged hoses to faulty lid switches, timer, basket, error code, voltage are several potential culprits preventing your washer from draining or spinning. We’ll unravel these issues, including error code and timer, one by one and provide step-by-step troubleshooting tips to help you identify and resolve the issue without breaking a sweat. So, if you’ve been staring at that immobile pile of laundry in the empty wash basket for too long, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and tackle this problem head-on!
After that, we’ll look at issues that could cause your washer not to drain or spin and those that could cause it not to drain fully, including timer and error code. As you’ll note, most washer issues and error code are similar to those mentioned above.
Let’s jump into it!
In a hurry? Consider the quick troubleshooting guide below when your Maytag Centennial washer won’t drain due to an error code.
Quick Troubleshooting Guide for A Maytag Centennial Washer Not Draining Properly
| – | Likely Cause | What to Check | Recommended Fix |
| 1. | Blocked Drain Hose | Clogging or kinking | Clean a dirty drain hose with Affresh but straighten out a kinked option and empty wash. and empty wash. |
| 2. | Failing Drain Pump | Obstruction or a worn-out or faulty pump | Clean the drain pump with Affresh if its clogged, remove clothes obstructions and replace the pump if it doesn’t work |
| 3. | Clogged Pump Filter Or Coin Trap | Debris clogging | Clean the pump filter and coin trap with Affresh |
| 4. | Wrong Setting | Slow spin or a gentle cycle wash cycle | Match the clothes with the recommended spin speed and spin cycle |
| 5. | Incorrect Standpipe Height | Standpipe height outside 39 – 96 inches | Correctly install the standpipe/drain pipe and keep its height 39 – 96 inches |
| 6. | Laundry Spinning Problem | Excess or imbalance load | Reduce the load to ¾ full and evenly balance it |
| 7. | Open Lid | Trapped clothes or bad lid switch | Remove any trapped clothes and replace the lid switch if it has no continuity |
| 8. | Excess Suds | Excess detergent or non-HE option | Don’t use excess detergent and opt for HE detergents |
Why Is My Maytag Centennial Washer Not Draining?
There are at least eight reasons to explain a non-draining Maytag Centennial washer. One of these issues could be the reason your Centennial washer won’t drain, and they are as follows:
1. Blocked Drain Hose
The drain hose shouldn’t be blocked for your washer to drain wastewater properly. It should be free from obstructions to allow the water to flow smoothly.
Overall, two issues could block the drain hose, and they are:
Kinking – Kinks on the drain hose block it and prevent water flow.
Clogging – The drain hose could also block after lint and dirt accumulation. The clog prevents wastewater from flowing.
Fix
Straighten the drain hose if it is kinked. You’ll need to unplug the washer and disconnect the drain hose clamp to stretch out the kinks properly.
If the hose is clogged, clean it properly to eliminate the blockage. Maytag recommends Affresh, which you can use to clean the drain hose, the entire washer, and individual parts like the drum, inside pump, pump filter, and tub.
Affresh removes grime, stubborn dirt, and clogs and eliminates bad odor from your washer. So, it’s a handy pick.
2. Failing Drain Pump
The drain pump must work effectively for the wastewater to move from the wash tub and drain into the drain hose. However, the drain pump will fail due to these two issues.
Obstruction – The drain pump may not work because clothes or debris are blocking it.
Worn-out or faulty pump – If the issue is not a blockage, it could be that the drain pump is worn out. So, you should inspect it for wear if you can.
Fix
Inspect the drain pump for clothes obstructions and remove them. If the pump is dirt-clogged, consider cleaning it with Affresh.
But if the drain pump won’t work after that, it could be worn out or faulty. So, you should replace it (especially if it’s noisy).
3. Clogged Pump Filter or Coin Trap
The pump filter, whose job is to prevent debris and other clogs from getting to the drain pump, can block and stop the washer from draining properly.
The coin trap, which catches foreign objects before entering the washer’s drain, can also clog with the things it traps or debris. Once that’s the case, the washer is unable to drain correctly.
Fix
Inspect the pump filter and coin trap from clogging and clean them. You may need first to use a paper towel to get rid of the superficial dirt and then thoroughly clean it with Affresh.
4. Wrong Setting
Sometimes the washing machine won’t drain because of choosing the wrong setting. It could be that the setting doesn’t allow the washer to spin or does not match the clothes you are washing at the time.
That brings us to the following issues:
Slow spin – The problem with a slow spin is that it doesn’t remove all the water. So, even though it protects the clothes from wrinkles and stretches, it doesn’t favor proper drainage, especially when washing bulky garments.
Gentle cycle – Gentle-cycle settings, such as Hand Wash, Gentle, and Delicate, are only best for delicate clothes. Once you use the settings in bulk clothes, they spin at a slower pace which translates to slow drainage.
Fix
Opt for a high-speed spin when washing bulky clothes to improve the spinning and drainage. And while picking a cycle, match it with the clothes you are cleaning.
5. Incorrect Standpipe Height
According to Maytag, the standpipe/drain pipe height should be 39 – 96 inches (99 – 244cm). If you position the drain pipe higher than 244 cm or lower than 99 cm, the washing machine won’t be able to pump out wastewater properly.
As a result, the waste may start flowing back. So the washer won’t drain.
Fix
Check the drainpipe height to ensure it’s 99 – 244cm. If the standpipe height is incorrect, uninstall the drainpipe and position it accordingly.
6. Laundry Spinning Problem
If your Maytag Centennial washer doesn’t spin the clothes, it won’t drain. That could be the case because of the following reasons:
Excess load – If the washer is overloaded, the clothes won’t spin. And if they don’t spin, water won’t drain.
Imbalanced load – If the clothes are out of balance, they won’t spin, making it harder for the washer to drain.
Fix
Check your load size to ensure the washing machine isn’t more than ¾ full. If it is, reduce the load size. In the meantime, ensure you evenly distribute the clothes in the washer to avoid heaps. That’ll improve the spinning and draining.
7. Open Lid
If your Maytag Centennials lid doesn’t close, the washer won’t run. And if it doesn’t run, it won’t drain. So, you ought to find out why the lid won’t close, and here are some suggestions:
Trapped clothes – Trapped clothes can prevent the washer’s lid from shutting. So, inspect the lid for any trapped clothes.
Faulty lid switch – If the issue is not trapped laundry, it could be a faulty lid switch. Once the lid switch is defective, the lid won’t close, preventing the dryer from draining.
Fix
Remove any trapped clothes from the lid and try shutting the lid. If the lid still doesn’t close, test the lid switch with a multimeter. If it lacks electrical continuity, replace it.
8. Excess Suds
Sometimes the washer won’t drain due to excess suds. That’s likely due to putting too much detergent in the washer or using the wrong detergent.
Regarding the wrong detergent, Maytag recommended High Efficiency (HE) detergents on top loaders instead of non-HE options due to their low suds advantage.
Fix
Consider using HE detergents and not non-HE detergents to reduce suds formation. More importantly, avoid putting too much detergent in the washer to prevent excess suds. (https://nuttyscientists.com/)
Maytag Centennial Washer Not Draining or Spinning
At times, the Maytag Centennial washer doesn’t just fail to drain but to spin too. If that’s the case, it could be due to one of these issues:
Laundry distribution issue (unbalanced or excess laundry load)
Unleveled washer (the washer shakes and can’t run smoothly)
Wrong cycle or setting, especially a slow spin or a gentle wash cycle
Blocked drain
A faulty lid switch, clutch, transmission, motor coupling, or drive belt
Maytag Centennial Washer Not Fully Draining
The Maytag Centennial washer may sometimes drain but not adequately. That’s likely to be the case due to one of these issues:
Clogging – Especially clogging of the drain hose, pump filter, and coin trap
Wrong settings, especially a slow spin or gentle setting on a bulky load
Over suds formation due to using excess or non-HE detergent
Excess or imbalance load
Faulty lid switch
Troubleshooting Your Washer
Identifying Issues
When your washer won’t drain or spin, it’s crucial to identify the underlying issues. Listen for any unusual sounds emanating from the machine during its operation. Observe the control panel for any displayed error codes. Furthermore, check around the washer for visible leaks or water pooling, indicating potential problems.
For example, if you hear a loud grinding noise or notice an E3 error code on the display, these could signify distinct issues that require attention.
Testing Lid Switch
To troubleshoot a washer that won’t drain or spin, it’s essential to test the lid switch. Begin by ensuring that it is functioning properly by opening and closing the lid. Utilize a multimeter to verify continuity in the lid switch, which should indicate whether it is working as intended. Also, inspect the lid switch for physical damage or loose connections that may impede its functionality.
For instance, if opening and closing the lid does not initiate any response from the washer or if there are visible signs of damage on the lid switch wires, this might be contributing to your problem.
Checking Power Sources
Another critical step in addressing a non-draining or non-spinning washer involves checking power sources. First and foremost, ensure that your washer is adequately plugged into a functional power outlet. Test this outlet with another device to confirm its ability to supply electricity. Investigate whether there has been tripping of circuit breakers connected to your washer.
In case you find out that plugging another device into the same outlet doesn’t work either or discover a tripped circuit breaker associated with your washing machine’s power supply line – these scenarios can help pinpoint where things might have gone wrong electrically.
Inspecting Drive Systems
Lastly, when troubleshooting why your washer won’t drain or spin effectively anymore – inspecting drive systems becomes imperative. Examine all components such as drive belts for wear and tear including cracks and looseness; also look at motor couplers closely for signs of breakage/wear-and-tear; finally examine both drive pulleys & motor pulleys thoroughly making sure no obstructions are present causing hindrance in their movement/rotation mechanisms.
Causes of Drainage and Spinning Problems
Mechanical Failures
When your washer won’t drain or spin, it could be due to several mechanical failures. Look for broken gears, bearings, or pulleys inside the washer. Check if any mechanical parts are loose or disconnected. Also, inspect the motor brushes for wear and tear.
If these components are damaged or worn out, they can impede the washer’s ability to drain and spin properly. For instance, a broken gear might prevent the drum from spinning altogether, while a faulty bearing can cause excessive noise during operation. Similarly, loose connections within the machine can disrupt its normal functions.
Another common issue is worn-out motor brushes that may lead to erratic spinning behavior or complete failure to start the spinning process.
Drainage Obstructions
Obstructions in the drainage system are another frequent cause of washer drainage and spinning problems. Clear any debris or foreign objects from the drain pump filter as these can obstruct water flow during draining cycles.
Moreover, check for clogs in both the drain hose and pipe as they may hinder proper water discharge from your appliance. Ensure that there are no kinks or bends in the drain hose as this can impede effective drainage.
A clogged filter will restrict water flow during draining cycles whereas a kinked hose will prevent smooth water evacuation from your washer which results in standing water at end of cycle.
Load Imbalances
Load imbalances also contribute to washer drainage and spinning issues especially during high-speed spin cycles when an uneven load causes excessive vibrations leading to poor performance. Avoid overloading your washer with too many clothes at once; distributing loads evenly inside prevents imbalance issues. Check if there are any loose items like small rugs causing an imbalance during spin cycles.
Excessive Detergent Use
Excessive detergent usage is another culprit behind washer drainage problems because it leads to excessive sudsing which hinders proper draining processes. Use only recommended amounts according to manufacturer instructions; avoid using too much detergent even with heavily soiled laundry. Consider switching to high-efficiency (HE) detergent designed specifically for modern washers’ optimal performance.
Fixing Drainage Issues
Clearing Clogs
When a washer won’t drain or spin, it’s often due to clogs in the drainage system. Start by inspecting the drain hose for any damage, leaks, or blockages. Ensure that it’s properly connected to both the washer and the drain pipe. Position the end of the hose at an appropriate height to prevent siphoning.
Next, focus on the drain pipe. Use a plumber’s snake or a similar tool to clear any obstructions within it. Verify that there’s adequate ventilation in the drain pipe to avoid airlocks. Check for leaks or loose connections along its length.
For example:
If you find that the drain hose is kinked, straighten it out.
In case of a clog in the drain pipe, use a plumbing snake to remove it.
Maintaining Drain Pump
Regular maintenance of your washer’s drain pump is crucial for preventing drainage issues. Clean it regularly to remove lint, debris, and other potential obstructions. Check if there are any damages or blockages in the pump impeller.
It’s also important to lubricate moving parts according to manufacturer recommendations.
For instance:
If you notice excessive lint accumulation around the pump filter, clean it thoroughly.
When lubricating moving parts of the pump, ensure you use recommended lubricants.
Resolving Spinning Complications
Even Load Distribution
Proper even load distribution is crucial to ensure that your washer can spin effectively. When loading the washer, make sure to distribute clothes inside the drum evenly. Avoid washing large items or single heavy items without balancing them with lighter ones. An unbalanced load can prevent the washer from spinning properly. You can use a leveling tool to check if the washer is balanced on all sides.
For example, if you’re washing a set of bed sheets and pillowcases, it’s essential to distribute them evenly in the drum so that one side isn’t significantly heavier than another. This simple step can help prevent spinning complications.
Shifter and Suds Solutions
Inspecting the shifter assembly for any damage or malfunctioning parts is critical when addressing spinning issues in your washer. A damaged shifter assembly can hinder the spinning function of the appliance. Using an appropriate amount of low-sudsing detergent is essential to prevent excessive foam buildup, which could affect proper spinning during the wash cycle.
If you notice excessive suds during washing, running additional rinse cycles can help eliminate excess suds and improve spinning performance.
Troubleshooting Drive Systems
When experiencing problems with your washer’s ability to spin, it’s important to troubleshoot its drive systems thoroughly. Testing the motor capacitor for proper functionality using a multimeter can help identify any issues affecting its performance. Loose wires or connections within the drive system should also be checked as they may impede proper spinning.
Referring to your washer’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps related to its drive system is highly recommended since different models may have unique requirements for diagnosing and resolving drive system-related issues.
Addressing Top-Load Washer Concerns
When a washer won’t drain or spin, it’s crucial to understand how water drains from the tub during different cycles. The drainage process involves the drain pump, which removes water from the washer’s tub. If this component malfunctions, it can lead to drainage issues.
Proper tub drainage is essential for the washer’s overall performance. Without efficient drainage, clothes may remain wet after a wash cycle, and subsequent spinning might not occur as expected.
The role of the drain pump is pivotal in ensuring that water is effectively removed from the washing machine’s tub. It works in conjunction with other components such as hoses and filters to facilitate seamless drainage.
Understanding Front-Load Washers
Spin and Drain Mechanisms
Front-load washers are equipped with spin and drain mechanisms that play crucial roles in the washing process. When a washer won’t drain or spin, it’s essential to examine these mechanisms thoroughly. Start by checking the spin mechanism for any signs of wear or damage. A damaged spin mechanism can hinder the spinning action, causing clothes to remain wet after a cycle.
Ensure that the drain valve is opening and closing properly during draining cycles. If this valve malfunctions, water won’t be effectively drained from the washer, leading to standing water at the end of a cycle. Moreover, inspect the spin basket or tub for any obstructions such as small items of clothing or debris that may impede spinning or draining.
In some cases, even a small piece of clothing stuck in the drain pump can prevent proper drainage. Therefore, thorough inspection and cleaning are crucial to resolving issues related to spinning and draining.
Drive System Types
Front-load washers utilize different drive systems to power their operations – primarily direct-drive and belt-drive systems. The direct-drive system directly connects the motor to the washer’s drum without using belts or pulleys. On the other hand, belt-drive systems use belts connected between the motor and drum for power transmission.
Each type has its own set of pros and cons:
Direct-Drive System:
Pros: Offers increased efficiency due to fewer moving parts which reduces energy loss.
Cons: Repairs can be more complex since accessing internal components may require disassembling parts of the washer.
Belt-Drive System:
Pros: Easier access to internal components facilitates simpler repairs when compared to direct-drive systems.
Cons: Belts may wear out over time requiring replacement; they also have a higher chance of slipping during operation than direct-drive systems.
Popular front-load washer models like Samsung WF45R6300AW feature a direct-drive system while models like LG WM3900HWA utilize belt-driven mechanisms for powering their washing cycles.
DIY Repair Steps
Manually Draining Washer
If your washer won’t drain or spin, you can manually drain it by following specific instructions from the manufacturer. Look for the emergency drain hose or access panel to release water manually. Be cautious when doing this to avoid injury or further damage to the machine.
When dealing with a washer that won’t drain, make sure to locate the emergency drain hose as per the manufacturer’s instructions. By carefully releasing any excess water through this method, you can prevent potential flooding and mess in your laundry area.
It’s crucial to exercise caution during manual draining to prevent any injuries and ensure that no further damage is caused to your washing machine. Following these steps correctly will help address issues related to a non-draining washer without causing additional problems.
Testing Timer Functionality
To tackle issues of a washer not draining or spinning, use a multimeter to test if the timer is sending power as intended. Check for loose connections or damaged wires in the timer assembly that might be causing malfunctions.
By using a multimeter, you can effectively determine whether there are any irregularities in how power is being distributed within your washing machine’s components. This step allows you to identify any faults in the timer functionality accurately.
Consulting your washer’s manual for specific instructions on testing its timer functionality will provide valuable insights into troubleshooting techniques tailored specifically for your appliance model. By referring directly to the manual, you gain access to detailed guidance on identifying and resolving issues related specifically to timer functionality.
When to Call the Professionals
Recognizing Complex Issues
If your washer won’t drain or spin, it’s crucial to recognize signs of more complex underlying problems. Look out for unusual noises, leaks, or electrical issues. These could indicate a deeper issue that requires professional attention. If you’re unsure about the problem, consider seeking guidance from online forums or contacting customer support for your washer brand.
When dealing with a malfunctioning washer, understanding when to seek professional repair services is essential. If you’ve attempted basic troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, it’s time to involve a professional. If the issue involves electrical components or major mechanical parts such as the motor or transmission, it’s best to leave it to the experts.
Seeking Repair Services
Once you’ve determined that your washer won’t drain or spin due to a complex issue beyond DIY repairs, research reputable appliance repair companies in your area. Look for providers with experience in repairing washers and inquire about their expertise with your specific washer model.
Obtaining quotes from multiple service providers is crucial before making a decision. This allows you to compare prices and ensure that you’re getting fair estimates for the required repairs. Moreover, inquire about warranties on parts and labor offered by each repair service.
After obtaining quotes and assessing their experience working with your washer model, make an informed decision on which repair service provider to engage.
Maintaining Your Washer
Regular Inspections
Regularly inspecting your washer is crucial to prevent issues like won’t drain or spin. Look for signs of wear, leaks, or damage around the hoses and connections. Schedule maintenance checks to catch potential problems early on. By doing this, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your washer operates smoothly.
Following the manufacturer’s recommended inspection intervals is essential for keeping your washer in top condition. Check the hoses, inlet valves, and drainage system during these inspections. This proactive approach helps identify any issues before they escalate into major problems that could lead to a won’t drain or spin situation.
Replacement Parts
When faced with a washer won’t drain or spin, identifying the specific replacement parts needed is crucial for resolving the issue effectively. Whether it’s a faulty pump, belt, or motor coupling causing the problem, knowing exactly what part needs replacing is key.
Purchasing genuine OEM parts from authorized dealers ensures compatibility and quality performance. Avoid using generic parts that may not fit properly or function as intended in your specific model of washer. Always refer to the washer’s manual when determining which replacement parts are required for addressing issues related to draining and spinning.
Consulting professional advice from certified technicians can also help pinpoint the exact replacement part needed if you’re unsure about which component requires changing in response to a won’t drain or spin situation.
Closing Thoughts
You’ve now equipped yourself with the knowledge to troubleshoot and fix your washer’s drainage and spinning issues. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing these problems. Keep those drain hoses clean and check for any blockages to ensure a smooth laundry experience.
Don’t let a malfunctioning washer throw a wrench in your plans. Take action as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, whether it’s DIY repairs or calling in the professionals. Your proactive approach will not only save you time and money but also keep your laundry routine running like a well-oiled machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my washer not draining or spinning?
If your washer won’t drain or spin, it could be due to a clogged drain hose, faulty pump, or a malfunctioning lid switch. Check these components for blockages or damages and clean or replace them as needed.
How can I troubleshoot drainage issues with my washer?
Start by checking the drain hose for clogs and ensuring it’s properly positioned. Inspect the pump for any obstructions and test the lid switch for functionality. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, consider seeking professional assistance.
What are common causes of spinning problems in washers?
Spinning complications in washers often stem from imbalanced loads, worn drive belts, or defective motor couplings. Try redistributing the load evenly within the drum to see if that resolves the issue. If not, further inspection may be necessary.
Can I perform DIY repairs to fix my washer’s drainage and spinning issues by troubleshooting tips and checking the water pump?
Yes! You can attempt to clear clogs from the drain hose and inspect components like the pump and lid switch yourself. However, if you’re unsure about handling these repairs safely and effectively, it’s best to call in professional help.
When should I consider calling professionals for washer issues?
It’s advisable to seek professional assistance when DIY troubleshooting methods fail to resolve drainage or spinning problems with your washer. If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components or complex mechanisms, contacting experts is wise.