Washing Machine Not Spinning Properly? Discover the Causes and Expert Solutions in Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, & Cambridge

Few things are more frustrating than opening your washer only to find your clothes still soaked because the spin cycle didn’t do its job. A faulty spin cycle doesn’t just leave laundry waterlogged—it can cause longer drying times, added energy costs, and unnecessary wear on your fabrics. For busy households, landlords, and property managers, these problems quickly turn into bigger headaches if not resolved.

At Al’s Appliance, we know how disruptive a broken washer can be. That’s why our locally owned, family-run team provides fast, honest, and dependable appliance repair services across Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling laundry day or a property manager keeping multiple units running smoothly, we bring the expertise and solutions you need—without the delays and high costs of big-box retailers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about washing machine spin problems: how the spin cycle works, the most common causes of failure, troubleshooting steps you can try on your own, and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call a professional. You’ll also learn about repair cost ranges, replacement options, and preventative care strategies that help you avoid repeat breakdowns.

If you’re new to our company, take a moment to learn more about us and how we’ve built a reputation for dependable service in the region. And if you ever find yourself dealing with a stubborn washer that won’t spin, our team is just a call or click away—visit our contact page to schedule service or ask for expert advice.

Let’s dive into why your washing machine might not be spinning properly and what you can do to get it back in action.

1. How Does Your Washing Machine’s Spin Cycle Work?

The spin cycle uses centrifugal force to wring water out of your clothes by spinning the drum at high speeds, then directing that water out through the drain pump. This process enhances drying efficiency, prevents mildew, and helps maintain the integrity of your fabrics. Here are the key parts that make this action happen:

• Motor – Powers the drum’s rotation using an electric drive.

• Drive Belt – Transmits power from the motor to the drum.

• Drain Pump – Moves extracted water out through the discharge hose.

• Lid Switch/Door Lock – Ensures safe operation by detecting if the door is shut.

• Suspension Springs/Shock Absorbers – Keep the drum steady during high-speed spinning.

Washing Machine Spin Cycle Mechanics

The spin cycle relies on centrifugal force, created by the drum spinning rapidly, to remove water from your clothes. This process is made possible by essential components like the motor, drive belt, drain pump, lid switch, and suspension system, all working together to efficiently remove water and protect your garments.

Each component needs to be in good working order for the spin cycle to complete. A problem in any part of this system will directly disrupt water extraction and drum movement.

What Are the Key Components Involved in the Spin Cycle?

The motor converts electrical energy into mechanical force, while the drive belt transfers that force to the drum to make it spin. A functioning drain pump sends water out of the tub, and a closed lid switch or door lock prevents the cycle from starting if the machine is open. Suspension springs absorb vibrations to keep the machine balanced. Together, these parts work in harmony to spin your laundry effectively.

Why Is the Spin Cycle Important for Washing Efficiency?

A properly working spin cycle removes up to 80% of the water from your wash, cutting down on drying time and energy use. By extracting moisture, it helps prevent mildew from forming in your fabrics and inside the machine. Effective spinning also ensures that detergent is thoroughly rinsed out, leaving your clothes clean and free from residue.

2. What Are the Most Common Causes of a Washing Machine Not Spinning Properly?

When spinning fails, it’s usually due to an issue with one or more mechanical or electronic parts. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you decide whether a DIY fix or professional service is needed. Common culprits include unbalanced loads, blocked pumps, faulty safety switches, worn-out belts, motor problems, and issues with the control board or power supply.

Common Causes of Washing Machine Failure

Several factors can lead to washing machine spin cycle failures, such as unbalanced loads, blocked pumps, defective lid switches, worn drive belts, and motor malfunctions. Identifying these problems early can help you determine whether to attempt DIY repairs or seek professional assistance.

How Does an Unbalanced Load or Overloading Prevent Spinning?

Too much laundry or laundry that’s not distributed evenly can cause the drum to shift off-center, triggering imbalance sensors that stop the spinning.

Common signs:

• Loud thumping or banging noises during the spin cycle.

• The drum stopping and starting repeatedly.

• The machine shaking violently.

These sensors are designed to protect the suspension system by pausing the spin if the weight isn’t distributed evenly, holding the cycle until the load is corrected.

What Are the Signs of a Clogged or Faulty Drain Pump?

A blocked pump or a kinked hose prevents water from draining, which means the spin cycle won’t start.

Look out for:

• Water still in the drum after the cycle finishes.

• Humming or buzzing sounds coming from the pump area.

• Error codes that indicate drainage problems.

Without proper drainage, the machine cannot move to the high-speed spin phase and will pause or stop the cycle altogether.

How Can a Defective Lid Switch or Door Lock Stop the Spin Cycle?

The lid switch or door lock is a safety feature that confirms the door is securely closed before the machine starts spinning.

Indicators of a defect:

• You don’t hear a click when you close the lid or door.

• The machine won’t start or skips the spin phase.

• There’s no power to the drum, but the control panel is still on.

If the switch doesn’t detect that the door is closed, the control board will prevent the spin motor from operating to ensure user safety.

What Are the Symptoms of a Worn or Broken Drive Belt?

A frayed or snapped belt stops the drum from turning, even if the motor is running.

Signs to watch for:

• You can hear the motor running, but the drum isn’t moving.

• Squealing noises occur when the machine tries to spin.

• You can see signs of wear or looseness on the belt.

Since the belt connects the motor’s power to the drum’s movement, any damage to it will completely stop the spin cycle.

How Do Motor Malfunctions Affect the Spin Cycle?

A motor that has burned out or seized up can’t generate the necessary power to spin the drum.

Watch for these signs:

• A burning smell coming from the back of the machine.

• The motor hums but doesn’t rotate.

• The machine suddenly shuts off mid-cycle.

Motor failures often require professional diagnosis because they involve complex electrical components and safety precautions.

What Other Issues Can Cause Spin Cycle Failures?

Besides the main parts, these factors can also interrupt the spin cycle:

• Power Supply Fluctuations – Inconsistent voltage can cause electronic components to reset.

• Uneven Levelling – A machine that’s not level can trigger imbalance sensors.

• Control Board Faults – A corroded or damaged circuit board can prevent the machine from sending cycle commands.

Addressing these issues will help restore reliable spin operation and prevent recurring interruptions.

3. How Can You Troubleshoot and Fix Washing Machine Spin Cycle Problems Yourself?

You can often fix many spin issues safely using basic tools and common household items. Always unplug the machine before you start inspecting any internal parts.

What Are the Steps to Balance an Unbalanced Washing Machine Load?

• Turn off the machine and open the lid or door.

• Rearrange heavy items so they are spread evenly around the drum’s edge.

• Remove some clothes if the drum is more than two-thirds full.

• Close the lid and start the spin cycle again to check if it’s running smoothly.

Ensuring the load is balanced evenly allows the drum to speed up without activating safety shut-offs.

How Do You Check and Clean a Washing Machine Drain Pump?

• Unplug the washer and find the access panel at the bottom.

• Place a shallow pan beneath the pump filter to catch any water.

• Carefully unscrew the filter housing and remove any debris.

• Check the drain hose for any kinks or blockages and clear them.

• Put the filter back in place and run a quick rinse cycle to test it.

Regularly cleaning the pump helps prevent clogs that can stop the spin cycle.

How Can You Test and Adjust a Washing Machine Lid Switch or Door Lock?

• Unplug the machine and turn off the water supply.

• Access the switch by removing the top or front panel.

• Press the switch’s actuator manually and listen for a click.

• If you don’t hear a click, clean the contacts or replace the switch.

• Reassemble the machine and confirm that the spin phase now starts.

A working lid switch sends the crucial safety signal that allows the drum to spin.

What Should You Look for When Inspecting a Drive Belt?

Visually check the belt for any signs of cracking, fraying, or contamination with oil.

• Make sure the belt has the correct tension by pressing on its middle; it should give about ½ inch (12 mm).

• Replace any belt that shows visible wear to restore the drum’s ability to spin.

Inspecting the belt helps prevent unexpected spin cycle failures when you change loads.

How Do You Check Motor Electrical Continuity?

You can test the motor’s electrical continuity using a multimeter:

• Disconnect power, detach the motor wires, and measure the resistance of the coils.

• If the readings match the manufacturer’s specifications, the motor’s windings are likely still good.

Anything beyond basic resistance checks, such as motor disassembly or rewinding, requires specialized tools and expertise.

How Do You Check Washing Machine Power Supply and Leveling?

• Use a voltage tester to confirm that the electrical outlet is providing a steady power supply.

• Place a spirit level on top of the machine to check if it’s tilted.

• Adjust the levelling feet until the machine sits perfectly flat and stable.

A consistent power supply and proper levelling help prevent electronic resets and false imbalance triggers.

4. When Should You Call a Professional Washing Machine Repair Technician?

Complex issues or repairs involving safety-critical components should always be handled by experts. Attempting repairs involving high voltage or intricate systems can void your warranty and pose a safety risk.

What Spin Cycle Issues Require Expert Diagnosis and Repair?

• Burned-out motors or rotor failures.

• Control board malfunctions or error code resets.

• Internal bearing or transmission problems.

• Leaking seals that could create electrical hazards.

Professional technicians use specialized diagnostic tools and genuine manufacturer parts to safely restore your washing machine’s performance.

How Does Al’s Appliance Provide Local Repair Services in Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge?

Al’s Appliance sends certified technicians throughout Southwestern Ontario for prompt service. Our technicians arrive in marked vehicles stocked with common replacement parts, ensuring quick diagnosis and repair. Whether your spin pump, belt, or motor needs attention, our team will restore your machine to peak performance and back every job with a warranty on parts and labour. Find out more about our appliance expertise on our Services page.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Washing Machine Repair?

• Certified Expertise to pinpoint hidden electrical or mechanical faults.

• Genuine OEM Components that help extend your machine’s lifespan.

• Warranty Protection on parts and labour for your peace of mind.

• Safety Compliance to avoid risks of electric shock or fire hazards.

Professional repairs offer lasting solutions that go far beyond temporary fixes.

How Can You Book a Washing Machine Repair Service with Al’s Appliance?

Schedule your service appointment in just a few minutes by calling our Ontario support line or by completing the request form on our Contact Us page. We’ll confirm your service appointment and dispatch a certified technician to ensure every spin cycle runs smoothly again.

When Is It More Cost-Effective to Replace Rather Than Repair?

If the cost of repair is more than half the price of a new machine, or if you’re experiencing frequent problems, it’s usually better to replace it. Modern high-efficiency washers can save you money on water and energy over time, which helps offset the initial purchase cost.

5. How Can You Browse New and Used Washing Machines at Al’s Appliance?

Check out our carefully selected range of factory-certified new models and fully tested pre-owned appliances on the Products List page. We offer competitive pricing and installation services to make upgrading easy.

6. What Are the Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Machines Not Spinning Properly?

Find clear answers to common spin cycle concerns and practical advice on what to do next.

Why Is My Washing Machine Not Spinning but Still Draining?

If your washer drains but doesn’t spin, the problem is likely with the drive belt, motor coupling, or lid switch—all of which are needed to engage the drum after the water has been removed.

How Do I Reset My Washing Machine to Fix Spin Cycle Issues?

Unplug the machine for one minute, then plug it back in. This will reset the control board and can clear minor electronic glitches that might be preventing the spin cycle.

Can an Unbalanced Load Really Stop My Washing Machine from Spinning?

Yes. Modern washing machines are designed to detect uneven weight distribution and will stop spinning to protect internal components, requiring you to rearrange the load before the spin can resume.

What Are the Signs of a Faulty Lid Switch or Door Lock?

A broken lid switch won’t make a clicking sound when closed, will prevent the cycle from starting, or will skip the spin phase entirely. Door lock issues on front-load models will show similar symptoms.

Conclusion

A smooth, reliable spin cycle is essential for keeping your laundry routine on track. While some washing machine issues can be solved with simple troubleshooting, others call for professional expertise to avoid costly damage. If you’re in Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, or Cambridge, trust Al’s Appliance for fast, dependable service. Our team is ready to restore your washer’s performance—simply call us at +1 519-824-8828 or email [email protected] to book your repair today.