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Washer not agitating
Common reasons your washer not agitating
The most common reasons your washer is not agitating are a malfunctioning electronic control board, faulty actuator or a jammed door lock assembly.
62% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
16% of the time it's the Actuator
15% of the time it's the Door Lock Assembly
7% of the time it's the Something else
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Common washer repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these washer parts may fix your problem.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the washer is not agitating, it could be attributed to a faulty electronic control board. This component controls various functions, including agitation, and if it malfunctions, the washer may not agitate properly.
Actuator Replacement
A defective washer actuator, also called the shifter assembly, can make it hard or impossible for the washer's drive system to switch between different cycles or modes. This might cause the washing machine to get stuck in one part of the laundry process, stopping it from moving through the entire cycle. Unusual noises, like grinding or clicking sounds during operation, could signal a problem with the actuator. An unreliable actuator might also stop the washer from agitating or spinning properly, impacting its overall washing performance. Sometimes, a malfunctioning actuator can even cause the washing machine to stop suddenly or not finish the cycle.
Door Lock Assembly Replacement
A jammed washer door lock assembly may cause difficulty in opening or closing the washer door. The door may not latch properly, preventing the washer from starting. During operation, the door lock may make unusual clicking sounds or fail to engage, preventing the washer from starting. Additionally, if there is a malfunction, the door lock indicator light may not illuminate as expected. The washer might display an error code indicating a door lock problem. A door lock problem may prevent proper drainage, leaving water in the drum at the end of the cycle.
What to expect when you experience a washer not agitating issue
How is the not agitating problem resolved?
Resolving the majority of not agitating problems typically requires replacing the electronic control board, actuator, or door lock assembly. However, since there are numerous potential causes, conducting a thorough diagnosis is crucial for addressing the issue. An accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services suggestions for a washer that is not agitating
If the washer isn't agitating, there could be various reasons. To prevent replacing unnecessary parts, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Our technicians are skilled in diagnosing all kinds of washer problems.
What to watch for with a washer not agitating diagnosis
Without the proper knowledge and training, diagnosing appliances can be difficult. Without using the latest diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances today are extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are challenging to test, making DIY repairs increasingly difficult.
Why won’t my washer agitate?
Many components come into play to move the agitator in your washing machine. A problem with any of them could prevent the agitator from working.
Worn Agitator Dogs
The agitator dogs engage with teeth inside the agitator to create a one-way ratcheting motion in the upper part of the agitator. That one-way motion at the top of the agitator combines with the back-and-forth motion at the bottom to move garments through the water during the agitation cycle. If the top part of the agitator moves in two directions, the agitator dogs are likely worn out and you’ll need to replace them.
Here’s a video that shows how to replace agitator dogs:
If you’re not completely confident that you can replace the agitator dogs on your own, schedule washer repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to install them.
Broken Lid Switch
On many top-load washers, the lid switch must detect that the washer lid is closed before the washer will agitate. Unplug the washer and check the lid switch. Replace it if it’s broken or damaged.
Here’s a video that shows how to replace the lid switch in a common type of top-load washer:
If you’re unable to replace the lid switch on your own, schedule service and we’ll send a repair technician to your home to install a new lid switch.
Other Causes of a Washer Not Agitating
Problems with the water level pressure switch, the drive block or a faulty gearcase can also prevent a washer from agitating.
When you’re unable to determine the cause of the agitation failure on your own, schedule washer repair service and we’ll send a technician to your home to fix the machine.
No agitation means clothes simply soak without scrubbing away grime. Stripped agitator cogs or broken belts typically stop that vital motion. Instead of subpar washing, call a washing machine repair near me. An active agitator restores deep cleaning to your laundry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.
A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.
Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.