Washing machine stopped working mid cycle [Fixed]

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Has your washing machine stopped working mid cycle? If yes, you are in the right place.

In this article, we will be looking at how to troubleshoot a washing machine that stops mid-cycle.

Let’s dive right in..

Table of Contents

Has your washing machine stopped working mid cycle? Try the following fixes

Check for power supply issues

For the most part, a power issue is the reason why your washing machine stopped mid-cycle and won’t turn on.

Suggested repair

First, confirm that it is not due to a power outage- If there’s a power cut, there’s nothing to do…just wait until power supply is restored by the utility company time.

However, if there’s no power failure, be sure to check if the washer’s circuit breaker has tripped-simply reset it if it has and see how it goes.

Confirm that you are using the right detergent

Using too much detergent or the wrong detergent type might stop your dryer mid-cycle.

How?

Well, if the detergent produces too much suds, the suds can impede the proper functioning of the washer’s sensors.

Consequently, the sensors might not be able to detect whether the washer is full or empty hence your washer may stop working during a cycle.

Suggested fix

This is fairly easy to troubleshoot-all you need to do is peep inside your washer.

And if it is extremely sudsy, chances are that you are either adding excess or you have a low quality detergent.

Either way, you have to get rid of the extra suds first.

To do that, just run rinse cycles until you can eliminate the excessive suds.

ALSO READ:

Will dish soap ruin a washing machine?

Test the lid switch

Another problem that might lead to your washer stopping mid-cycle is a faulty lid switch.

That is because if it is faulty, it tends to interfere with the washer’s circuitry which, in turn, leads to the washer stopping during a cycle.

In fact, the lid switch acts as a safety mechanism that prevents a washer from running when the door is open.

Recommended repair

Perform a continuity test on the switch.

If it lacks continuity, then it is likely faulty so you may want to get a replacement.

Now, if you own a Whirlpool or Maytag washer, you can order the door switch replacement here.

Check the water valves

Next, carefully inspect the inlet valve – you will be checking for any kinks along the valve or clogs on the valve screen.

You will also want to make sure that the water faucets are turned on.

Here’s why…

If there is no water flow, once the washer completes the washing cycle, it won’t proceed to the rinsing cycle and could instead turn off.

What to try

Straighten any kinks that you have seen and clean the inlet valve screen (if it is clogged).

Also, if the faucets were off, turn them back on.

Remember that if the water valve is leaky, then chances are that it is broken and its best to replace it with a compatible OEM replacement part.

Washing machine stopped mid cycle full of water / washing machine stopped working mid cycle full of water / washing machine stops mid cycle won’t drain? – Check the drain pump

If you’re facing any of these issues, it could be because of clogging in the drain pump (some socks or other small clothing could be stuck in there).

Indeed, the washer frequently cannot progress to the next cycle (and stops) when there’s a blockage in there.

What to do

First access the drain pump and check for any clogs (accrued lint, pet hairs, socks and so on) – be sure to first drain out all the water before checking for clogs-If it is clogged, obviously you have to unclog it.

It’s also worth mentioning that the source of the draining issues could be a bad pump as well – and your best bet is getting a replacement.

Quick tip: One way to ensure the old component is not good is to rotate the impeller(by hand)-if the shaft can turn freely without stopping-at every 45 degrees- then it’s time to get a new one.

Test the washer’s motor (your washer stopping mid-cycle and not turning on)

The motor plays a crucial part in the running of the washer.

Now, it might fail eventually give in due to prolonged usage – and it can do so during a cycle.

That being so, perform a continuity test on the motor and change it out if it lacks continuity (you can get an OEM replacement here).

Check the control board

Do this as your last troubleshooting step – not only because the part is expensive to replace but also because it cannot be tested with a multimeter.

So, how do you check the control board for issues?

Well, you will need to visually inspect it for any signs of damage or burning.

If you can spot any, it might mean that the control board is damaged – there’s no cheaper way out…just replace it with the right part.

Washing machine stops working mid cycle – frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can you open a washing machine mid cycle?

Yes, you can.

However, it does not involve simply tugging at the washer’s door. Rather than that, there are two ways you can go about it…

Press the START/PAUSE button and wait for some time for the washer to drain the remaining water.
Turn the dial to the off This will signal the dryer to drain any water present.

Once the water has been drained, you can proceed to open your washer.

Can you stop a washing machine mid cycle?

Yes, you can.

To do so, all you will need to do is turn the dial into the off position and give your machine a couple of minutes for it to drain out the water. After that, it could stop cycling.