Washer won't start?
Most of the time the lid or door isn't latching, a lock setting is on, or the washer isn't getting power or water. Those are all free to check before you call anyone.
Not sure which one it is? Snap your washer and we’ll narrow it down.
Does it start but then stop before the spin?
That's a different problem, with its own causes. Washer won't spin
Lid or door not latching (lid switch or door lock)
Most commonModerate DIYNo click when you close the lid or door, a lock light that flashes, or the washer works only if you press down on the lid. A clothing item or a broken latch can keep it from closing.
Part: $150–400 (door repair including the lock); about $80 (top-load door switch)
Control lock or child lock on
Most commonEasy DIYA lock icon or light is on and the buttons do nothing. Often triggered by holding a button by accident.
No power (plug, breaker or GFCI)
CommonEasy DIYThe display is dark and nothing responds. The plug was bumped loose, the breaker tripped, or a GFCI outlet nearby needs to be reset.
Water supply valves off
CommonEasy DIYMany washers won't start without water. The hot and cold valves behind the washer are closed, or the hoses are kinked, so it stalls at the fill step.
Delayed start setting
CommonEasy DIYThe display shows a countdown or a delay light is on, so it looks stuck but is waiting.
Timer or control board
Less commonCall a proPower and lock are fine, the lid latches, and the washer still won't begin or stalls at the same point each time; error codes that return after a reset.
Part: $120–230 (timer)
Water inlet valve
Less commonCall a proThe washer starts to fill and stops, or doesn't fill at all even with the supply valves open.
Part: $95–190
Unplug the washer before inspecting the latch or lid switch. Never bypass or jumper a lid switch or door lock: they stop the drum from spinning while it's open, and defeating one can cause serious injury.
- Close the lid or door firmly and listen for the click. Check that nothing is caught in the latch.
- Look for a lock icon or light and a delay countdown on the control panel. Hold the lock button to turn it off if the manual says so.
- Confirm the plug is seated, the breaker hasn't tripped, and any GFCI outlet is reset.
- Open the hot and cold supply valves behind the washer fully and check the hoses for kinks.
- Note any error code or flashing light. It narrows things down fast.
Diagnose your washer in seconds, for free
No account, no phone number. Fixology’s AI reads your photo and tells you what’s likely wrong, how worried to be, and whether it’s a DIY fix.
Snap one of these:
- the washer's control panel and any error code
- the lid latch or door lock
- the model label, inside the lid or door
Add a note or more photos next. Nobody calls you.
The latch is broken, the lock light keeps flashing, the display is dead with power confirmed, or an error code returns after a reset. For lifespan and upkeep, see the washer guide.
Typical cost: HomeAdvisor puts a washing machine repair at about $180 on average, with a typical range of $125–450.
Sources: HomeAdvisor: How much do washing machine repairs cost? (updated June 17, 2026)
After a scan, Fixology can also help you find pros near you.
- Washer
The drum fills and washes but won't spin, which is usually an unbalanced load, the lid switch, or a drain problem.
- Washer
Water is left in the drum after the cycle, which is usually a clogged pump filter or a kinked drain hose.
- FurnaceFall
The furnace runs but the house stays cold, which is usually a clogged filter, a thermostat setting, or an ignition fault.
- Heat pumpFall
The heat pump runs but the house stays cold, which is usually thermostat settings, a clogged filter, or an iced-over outdoor unit.
Fixology helps you understand your home — it isn't a substitute for a licensed pro on serious gas, electrical, or structural work.