Repair or Replace a Washing Machine?
Short answer
Many washer problems come from one replaceable part — the drain pump, the lid or door lock, a water inlet valve, a belt or a control — and repairing that part is often the sensible choice on a machine that is otherwise sound. Replacement deserves a closer look when the drum, tub or bearings are damaged, when the frame is rusting through, or when breakdowns keep coming back. Loud grinding during spin and water under the machine are symptoms to have diagnosed before deciding.
What the decision depends on
- The symptom and its cause. "Won't drain" is often a pump or blockage; loud grinding during spin can mean drum bearings, a larger job.
- The written estimate compared with the cost of a replacement washer, including delivery, installation and removal of the old one.
- Fit. Stacked and compact units in condos and apartments must match the same space and hookups, which can narrow the choice of replacements.
- The overall condition of the tub, door seal, suspension and cabinet.
- Whether parts are available for your model.
When repair usually makes sense
- Water stays in the drum at the end of the cycle.
- The door or lid lock won't engage or won't release.
- The washer fills slowly or not at all.
- It stops mid-cycle or shows an error code on an otherwise healthy machine.
- A hose or door seal leaks.
When replacement is worth considering
- The drum, tub or bearings are badly worn or damaged on a lower-cost machine.
- The cabinet or frame is rusting through.
- Several different failures have happened within a short time.
- Parts for your model are no longer available.
Safe checks before you call
- Check that the drain hose isn't kinked or crushed behind the machine.
- Make sure the lid or door is fully closed and nothing is caught in the door seal.
- If it shakes hard during spin, stop the cycle and spread the load evenly.
- Some washers have a drain pump filter. Your owner's manual shows whether yours does and how to clean it; have towels ready because water will come out.
- If water is leaking, stop using the washer and turn off the water supply valves if you can reach them safely. Keep water away from outlets and cords.
What the diagnostic visit tells you
A technician comes to you, finds the actual cause and gives you a written estimate before any repair. The $69 diagnostic is credited toward the repair if you approve it; if you decide not to repair, the diagnostic is the only charge. Approved repairs carry a 12-month warranty on parts and labor for the same repaired issue.
If the machine won't drain, our drain pump page explains what we look at.
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Find Out What's Actually Wrong
$69 diagnostic, credited toward the repair if you approve it. Written estimate before any work.