Washing Machine Motor Not Working: Causes & Troubleshooting Guide

Direct Causes of Washing Machine Motor Failure

The most common reasons a washing machine motor stops working are burnt motor windings, a damaged start capacitor, or a faulty control board. Use a multimeter to check winding resistance; readings of 0 or infinity indicate burnt windings. A failed start capacitor cannot provide the energy needed for startup. Control board failure prevents normal voltage signals from reaching the motor. Additionally, power supply issues, broken drive belts, or seized bearings are frequent culprits.

Recommended troubleshooting sequence: Start by checking the power outlet and fuse, then inspect the capacitor, windings, and control board step by step. Never disassemble the motor while power is connected.

How Washing Machine Motors Work

AC Motor Working Principle

Based on electromagnetic induction. Alternating current through the stator winding generates a rotating magnetic field, which cuts the rotor winding to induce current. The energized rotor rotates under electromagnetic force, driving the washer components.

Mainstream in Pulsator Washers

DC Motor Working Principle

Based on energized coils rotating under force within a magnetic field. Direct current applied to the armature winding creates current-carrying conductors that receive electromagnetic torque in the stator field, rotating to drive the washing machine.

Superior Speed Control

Comparison of Common Motor Types

Motor Type	Key Features	Advantages	Application
Induction Motor	Simple structure, low manufacturing cost	Affordable, easy maintenance	Entry-level pulsator washers
Brushless DC Motor	Electronic commutation, no brush wear	Wide speed range, high efficiency, low noise, long life	Mid-to-high-end drum washers
Direct Drive Motor	No belt drive, directly connected to drum	High transmission efficiency, quieter, precise control, lower failure rate	Premium drum washers

Key Motor Parameters and Fault Correlation

Parameter	Normal Range	Abnormal Symptoms
Power	300W - 800W	Insufficient power causes weak washing and poor spin performance; prolonged overload leads to burnout
Speed	Wash 300-600rpm / Spin 800-1600rpm	Abnormal speed results in incomplete washing or excessive water retention after spinning
Efficiency	High-efficiency motors exceed 85%	Reduced efficiency increases energy consumption and motor heating, accelerating insulation aging
Noise Level	Quality motors below 50dB	Noise exceeding 60dB usually indicates bearing wear or rotor eccentricity

Step-by-Step Motor Troubleshooting Guide

Power and External Check

Confirm the power outlet is working by testing with another appliance. Check that the washer power cord is intact and the plug is secure. Ensure the washer door is fully closed, as most models have a safety lock that prevents motor startup when the door is open.

Fuse and Circuit Testing

Check whether the internal fuse has blown. Use a multimeter to measure voltage at the motor supply terminals; normal reading should be 220V. If voltage is present but the motor does not run, the fault lies in the motor itself. If no voltage is output, inspect the control board and relay.

Start Capacitor Testing

The start capacitor is critical for motor startup. When damaged, the motor may hum without rotating. Measure capacitance with a multimeter; normal value should be within ±10% of the rated capacity. If capacity has degraded by more than 20%, replace with a capacitor of identical specifications.

Winding Resistance Measurement

Disconnect motor wiring and measure resistance between windings with a multimeter. Normal windings should show resistance of several tens of ohms. A reading of 0 indicates a short circuit; infinity indicates an open circuit. Both conditions require motor replacement or rewinding.

Mechanical Component Inspection

Rotate the motor shaft manually; it should turn smoothly without binding. Difficult rotation may indicate dry bearings or foreign object obstruction. Check whether the drive belt is broken or loose, as belt issues cause the motor to spin while the drum remains stationary.

Other Common Motor Faults

Abnormal Noise During Operation

Severely worn motor bearings increase friction during rotation, producing abnormal noise. Loose mounting screws between the motor and washer housing cause resonance. Rotor eccentricity also generates unusual sounds. Stop the machine immediately upon detecting abnormal noise to prevent further damage.

Abnormal Motor Speed

Speed that is too high, too low, or unstable indicates a fault. For variable-speed motors, the speed control device may have failed. For induction motors, unstable power supply voltage may be the cause. Degraded start capacitor capacity reduces motor output power. Abnormal speed directly affects washing and spin performance and requires prompt repair.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Motor Life

Avoid Overloading: Prevent prolonged motor overload and accelerated wear by loading within the rated capacity

Select Proper Programs: Choose appropriate wash programs and speeds based on fabric type and soil level

Clean Regularly: Remove debris from the drum and filter promptly to prevent material from entering the motor

Keep Dry: Maintain a dry and well-ventilated environment to prevent moisture damage to motor winding insulation

Periodic Inspection: Check connection wires, capacitor condition, and bearing lubrication requirements

Purchase Recommendations

High Power Needs

For frequent washing of large or heavy items, select a motor with higher power and speed to ensure effective washing and spin performance.

Quiet Operation

For noise-sensitive environments, prioritize brushless DC motors or direct drive motors, with operating noise as low as 45dB.

Energy Efficiency

Choose high-efficiency motors to reduce long-term operating costs. Grade 1 efficiency motors can save approximately 30% on annual electricity bills.

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