What to Do When Washing Machine Motors Fail

If you've ever heard a loud, humming sound, or heard your washing machine making screeching noises, chances are it's been caused by a bad motor. Washing machine motors are heavy, rugged machines that are designed to last, but if you don't perform regular maintenance, they can fail. This article will describe what to look for, and what to do when the motor on your washing machine starts to show signs of failure.

Old-fashioned washing machine motors were generally induction motors. They ran in one direction for agitation, and spun in another for spin dry. Newer machines are controlled by microprocessors and have different speeds.

Induction motors are similar to DC generators. However, they tend to have more complex control circuitry. A large non-polarized capacitor is usually in series with the start winding. The capacitor provides a phase shift to make the rotor spin. These motors also have permanent magnet synchronous outer rotors, which directly drive the washing machine drum. Because they have a plastic rotor structure, they can be quiet and can run at high speeds, allowing for efficient operation.

There are several common problems with washing machine motors. Many of these issues can be resolved with simple preventative maintenance, but others need expert repair. Here are a few common issues:

Wearing out bearings can cause early motor burnout. Worn out bearings put pressure on the motor and increase the risk of overheating, which can lead to burnout. Another problem is dirty contacts. Dirt will prevent movable contacts from closing, which could lead to high current and sparks.

Damaged or broken components can also contribute to a malfunctioning washing machine. For example, a broken or broken coupling may disconnect the shaft from the transmission. You should replace the coupler and any other damaged parts to get the washer back into service. Also, check the agitator for excessive friction. If the agitator has any excessive wear, this can cause the motor to fail.

Other common problems include drainage and drum issues. To avoid these issues, fill your washer evenly. Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight for your clothes. It is important to remember that a washing machine is designed to work at a specific speed, and that it is not designed to be disassembled.

Overloading the washing machine can also be a cause of motor burnout. Overloading the machine can cause excessive wear on the motor's bearings, and will eventually result in the motor failing.

Washing machine motors are not a very complicated component to work on. You will have to use protective gloves and goggles to handle the motor. But, with a little knowledge, you can take care of the most common problems without spending a lot of money.

You can also take a quick visual check to see if the washer is working properly. A broken drive motor may not spin, or a defective lid switch may be stuck on. An agitator that has excessive friction can also be a problem, as this can impose unnecessary stress on the motor and cause it to fail.

120W 60HZ COPPER WASHING MOTOR