Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
If your washer fills with water but doesn’t agitate, the problem is likely to be a faulty lid switch, a broken belt, or a problem with the motor. Note: Direct-drive washing machines do not have belts.
1) Check the spin cycle. If this works, the motor is operating and the belt is not broken. If it doesn’t, the belt may be loose or broken. If you’re fairly handy, tighten or replace the belt; otherwise call an appliance repairperson.
2) Check the lid switch and the tab on the lid that strikes it. If the plastic tab is broken, the washer may halt during certain cycles. Press and release the switch: If it doesn’t click each time you do this, it’s probably broken. If you’re experienced at home repair, you can remove the switch, test it, and replace it if needed; otherwise, call an appliance repairperson.
3) There may be a problem with the controls, or the agitator solenoid may be broken. Call a repairperson.
