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Washing Machine Stops Mid-Cycle: How to Troubleshoot and Fix It

Is your washing machine stopping in mid-cycle, leaving you with soggy clothes and frustration?

When a washing machine stops in mid-cycle, it can disrupt your laundry routine and cause needless stress. Thankfully, most issues are fixable with a bit of troubleshooting.

Below, we’ll explore the most common causes and how to address them, along with tips on finding professional help if you need it.

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Summary

  • Learn about the 6 common causes why the washer stops mid-cycle.
  • Understand basic troubleshooting and learn preventive measures.
  • Know when to call a professional to fix your washer if the troubleshooting didn’t work.

Disclaimer: Troubleshooting sometimes can be a daunting task. Always practice safety and take the necessary precautions as you might encounter electrical parts.

Key Reasons Why a Washing Machine Stops Mid-Cycle

  1. Power Supply Issues

    • Loose Plug or Power Cord: Sometimes the solution is as simple as plugging the washing machine securely into the outlet.
    • Faulty Outlet: If the outlet isn’t providing consistent power, the machine may turn off mid-cycle.

  2. Door or Lid Switch Problems

    • Door Not Latched Properly: Most modern washers have safety sensors. If the door isn’t closed correctly, the washer may pause or stop.
    • Worn or Damaged Switch: Over time, the lid or door switch can wear out and fail to signal the washer’s control board properly.

  3. Overloaded Washer

    • Too Many Clothes: An overload makes it difficult for the machine to spin or agitate, potentially causing it to shut down mid-cycle to protect the motor.
    • Unbalanced Load: Large or bulky items can create an imbalance, triggering a safety pause.

  4. Drainage Problems

    • Clogged Drain Hose: Debris or foreign objects might block water flow, causing the machine to stop until it can drain.
    • Malfunctioning Pump: If the pump is faulty, the washer may halt to prevent water from overflowing.

  5. Malfunctioning Sensors

    • Temperature Sensor: In some models, a misreading temperature sensor can interrupt the cycle.
    • Water Level Sensor: A faulty sensor may incorrectly measure water levels, causing the machine to stop.

  6. Control Board or Timer Issues

    • Electrical Glitches: A brief power surge or worn-out control board might prevent the machine from completing cycles.
    • Faulty Timer Mechanism: Older washers with mechanical timers can experience wear over time.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check Power and Reset

    • Inspect the Plug and Outlet: Ensure the washer is firmly connected and the outlet functions properly.
    • Reset the Machine: Unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in and restart the cycle.

  2. Secure the Door or Lid

    • Close Properly: Make sure there’s no clothing caught in the door.
    • Examine the Switch: Look for visible wear or damage. If you suspect it’s faulty, consider professional appliance repair.

  3. Redistribute Clothes

    • Even Out the Load: Remove some items if the load is too large. Spread clothes evenly to avoid imbalance.

  4. Address Drainage Problems

    • Check Hoses: Remove any visible obstructions from the drain hose.
    • Examine the Pump: Listen for abnormal sounds; if it’s not functioning, the machine may require a new pump.

  5. Consult the Manual

    • Manufacturer’s Guidance: The user manual often contains specific steps for error codes or mid-cycle stops.

When to Call Professionals

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your washing machine stops in mid-cycle repeatedly, it might be time to seek expert help. Malfunctioning sensors, control boards, or complex mechanical faults often require specialized knowledge.

  • Appliance GrandMasters in Greenville SC: Known for appliance repair, appliance maintenance, and appliance installation services, their technicians can diagnose advanced issues and ensure your washer is up and running in no time.


Pro Tip: Scheduling regular maintenance checks can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. Professionals can spot worn parts early and guide you on best practices to extend your washer’s lifespan.

washing machine stops mid-cycle repairing

Preventive Measures to Avoid Mid-Cycle Stops

  1. Load Your Machine Properly

    • Follow the manufacturer’s recommended load sizes. This not only reduces stress on the motor but also ensures efficient cleaning.

  2. Regularly Clean the Washer

    • Run a maintenance cycle with vinegar or a specialized cleaner to eliminate soap scum and mineral buildup.

  3. Inspect Hoses and Filters

    • Check for blockages or signs of wear, especially the drain and inlet hoses.

  4. Monitor for Unusual Noises

    • Strange sounds can be early indicators of mechanical issues. Addressing these signs early can prevent bigger problems later.

FAQs

  1. Why does my washing machine keep stopping mid-cycle?
    Often, it’s due to simple issues such as a loose power connection, door switch malfunction, or overloaded drum. More complex causes include sensor or control board faults that may need professional diagnosis.

  2. Is it safe to keep restarting my washer if it stops mid-cycle?
    It’s generally okay to retry once or twice after addressing obvious issues (like an unbalanced load or loose plug). If the problem persists, further restarting could worsen damage, so consider calling a technician.

  3. How can I prevent my washer from stopping mid-cycle in the future?
    Follow the recommended load sizes, clean the machine regularly, and inspect hoses or filters for blockages. Regular appliance maintenance helps catch potential problems early.

  4. When should I call a professional for a washer that stops mid-cycle?
    If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting (power checks, redistributing clothes, clearing drain hoses) and the machine still stops, a professional appliance repair service can diagnose and resolve deeper mechanical or electronic issues.

washing machine function

Conclusion

Seeing your washing machine stop in mid-cycle can be annoying, but it’s a solvable issue. By checking common causes like power supply, load size, and drain function, you can often get your washer running smoothly again without a hefty repair bill. However, if the problem persists or involves complex electronic components, enlisting professional help is your safest bet.

For those in need of reliable appliance repair, appliance maintenance, or appliance installation, Appliance GrandMasters in Greenville SC stands ready to assist. Regular maintenance and mindful usage are the keys to keeping your washer—and all your appliances—in great shape, season after season.

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Expert Appliance Repairs

Don’t stress. Appliance GrandMasters provides professional appliance installation and repair services to keep your appliances in top condition. Let our skilled technicians handle the work, ensuring your appliances run smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today for all your appliance repair needs in Greenville.

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About Appliance GrandMasters

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Formerly known as Mr. Rogers Appliances, we rebranded our appliance repair company to Appliance GrandMasters in June 2020. Since then, we have focused on developing our brand to be customer-oriented. 

Fixing appliances has become a passion for us. We enjoy challenges and we are always studying to become the very best.

We accomplish swift and top-notch service by employing efficient and friendly customer service procedures that guarantee accurate answers and solutions. 

Our approach involves the careful selection and comprehensive training for the necessary skills to fulfill our customers’ needs. Through these strategies, we strive to consistently provide exceptional service.