Tag - Problems with Whirlpool all-in-one

Whirlpool All-in-One Washer Dryer Not Spinning

**NOTICE**
Due to the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information. 

Issues with the drum not spinning are among the most common faults with the Smart All-In-One Washer & Dryer from Whirlpool. While this guide is primarily focused on model #WFC8090GX0, many of the following tips may provide dryer repair solutions for the following front-loading Whirlpool models too:

WED5620HW WHD5090GW
WHD560CHW CED9150GW
WGD5620HW WHD862CHC

WED6620HW WED8620HW
WED560LHW WGD8620HW
WGD6620HW WED9620HC

Common Reasons for Whirlpool Dryer Drum Not Spinning

The most likely reasons for a Whirlpool Smart All-In-One Washer & Dryer to stop spinning are:

  • Problems with power connections to drum
  • Blockage preventing spinning
  • Motherboard computer connection issues
  • Issues with drum’s drive belt and motor
  • Fallout from overheating
  • Washer & Dryer cycle not starting

When attempting to repair, first check the status of the machine via the Scan-to-Connect technology and app. In many cases, the app can use automated diagnostics to provide an error code, saving a lot of time troubleshooting. If this hasn’t helped identify the issue or you’re not using the app, the following are some typical problems:

Drive Belt Broken

Faulty drive belts are the most common reason for drums to stop spinning. The easiest way to test this is to open the drum and turn it by hand. A healthy drive belt should provide some resistance (although it should turn) as it is spun. If there is no resistance, the drive belt is the main reason the drum is not turning.

Turn off the appliance and remove the lid to see whether the belt has snapped or come loose. If the latter, simply refit to fix. However, if the drive belt comes loose a second time, further support is needed. If the drive belt has snapped, a replacement part will be needed.

Idler Pulley Faulty

When the drive belt works but there is no tension, the idler pulley may have become damaged due to wear and tear. It is located in the dryer cabinet of the unit and should spin freely when tested by hand. If it is bent, broken or damaged, it will need replacing with part 279640.

Breaker Tripped

Whirlpool electric dryers use two power breakers to work. While they are designed to trip simultaneously, it is possible for only one to trip,  leaving the unit turning on, but not functioning. Try switching off the breakers for one minute to allow the unit to reset to solve the problem.

Alternatively, in rare cases, the power supply might not be sufficient enough to help the unit function. Therefore, a replacement power cord #PT220L may solve this commonly overlooked problem.

Drum Obstructed

If the drum is obstructed, it physically won’t turn despite all other parts working. This can be caused by loose items falling out of clothing and getting caught in the unit. Complete the same manual turning test used for checking the drive belt. If the drum won’t turn at all or is particularly stiff, an obstruction is likely.

The foreign objects will usually lodge between the drum and the housing of the unit.  Needle nose pliers can help manually remove the objects before spinning the drum to check that the obstruction is fully removed.

Drum Rollers Faulty

The drum relies on several drum rollers to provide a smooth operation as it turns. With the appliance switched off and the lid open, each of the rollers should spin without resistance when turned by hand. If any of them are not spinning properly or have visible signs of severe wear, they need replacing. It is possible to purchase a replacement for the individual roller or use a kit to replace them all.

Drive Motor Overheated

When the motor used to power the spin cycle overheats, it may stop the drum from spinning entirely or it may cause an intermittent performance, which is equally problematic as laundry won’t dry. Replacing this part is usually best left to an expert.

Face Panel Buttons Aren’t Working

The digital screen on the face panel provides a convenient way to set the various modes on the washer-dryer. If you cannot start a cycle or change the settings to the right dry mode, the buttons may not be connecting to the main computer. Even when there is resistance after pushing the button, an investigation is needed.

Turning the appliance off at the breaker may reset the digital buttons to fix the issue. If this doesn’t work, unscrew the panel and check for debris or signs of worn switches.

Thermal Fuse Failed

Thermal fuses are a safety mechanism that, if blown, will stop the drum from turning. Remove the back panel and use a multimeter to run a consistency test. Replacing the thermal fuse is easy, but you need to check whether overheating is the root cause. If it is, failure to treat the issue will result in the new thermal fuse blowing very quickly.

When completing this task or any other, it’s vital to check that the drum is back in position and that the washer-dryer is level. If the issues persist a professional dryer repair service can usually get it operating again without the need to replace your entire unit.

 

Visit Fred’s Appliance Academy to learn more about the training provided in appliance repair.

Special thanks to Fred’s Appliance Academy for this helpful tip!