Washing Machine will not start?

Check the pressure switch -the system that determines correct water level in the drum. Power off, drag machine out onto the floor, remove back cover and top cover. The pressure switch is a round item about 3 inches across with several wires connected. It sits under the top cover. Its an air operated switch which tells the machine water has reached the correct level. If its giving an incorrect indication to the program timer machine will either refuse to fill or refuse to spin. Disconnect the thin rubber pipe from the switch and blow down through it to clear any blockage. Switch itself may be faulty but its more likely the pressure pipe or the vessel attached to the other end of the pipe is blocked. Remove the pressure vessel, put a small nut or screw in it, fill it with water and shake vigorously till any crud or residue is removed. Refit all parts, check that joints and connections are water tight.

Some machines test the motor rotation on power up and if this is abnormal they simply abort the program. Check out the carbon brushes in the motor. Theyre graphite blocks which transfer mains power to the copper segments of the motor -Theyre probably worn down. They're quite cheap parts and easy to replace. Power off, drag machine out onto the floor, remove the back cover and locate the motor. May help if the machine is tilted at an angle or laid on its side. The brushes are at the other end of the motor from the drive pulley. The holders are plastic or bakelite and are generally held in with screws or plastic clips. Also, look at the copper segments they run on to check for burning or pitting. If the segments are burnt or damaged you need a replacement motor or a replacement armature (motor part) if you can source one. Occasionally may be a fault in the motor drive circuit board - in which case replacement of board only real option.

Possibly could also be heater or thermistor fault.
Repair and service your own washing machine. Go to www.2ndwave.co.uk/manual.html

dannyboy
December 2008