Amana Washing Machine: not powering on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana washing machine is not powering on, you may notice no lights on the control panel, no response from the Start button, and no cycles initiating. This issue can arise from various factors, including power supply problems, control lock settings, or door lock malfunctions. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana machines require holding the Start button for approximately 3 seconds to initiate a cycle, and have a Control Lock feature that can block interaction.

Possible Causes

Power supply and outlet issue

How to Identify: No lights or response even when Start is pressed; plug another device into the same outlet — if that device also doesn’t power, outlet/circuit may be at fault.

Part: Power cord / electrical outlet / circuit breaker

Control lock or incorrect start procedure

How to Identify: Control Lock indicator is lit or panel unresponsive until Control Lock is disengaged; Start button may require holding for ~3 seconds.

Part: Control panel / lock feature

Door or lid not securely closed / faulty door lock switch

How to Identify: Machine shows no power or start until door is firmly closed and latched; machine user manual notes safety lock preventing start.

Part: Door lock / lid switch

Electronic control board failure

How to Identify: Outlet has power, door closed, no panel illumination or response; other causes ruled out and board shows signs of damage or no output.

Part: Control board / user interface board

Internal safety or line fuses blown

How to Identify: No power though outlet and cord are fine; fuse continuity test fails (requires multimeter.

Part: Line fuse / thermal fuse

DIY Solutions

Check and restore proper electrical supply

Easy 5–15 minutes
Tools Needed: Small appliance or outlet tester
  1. Ensure the washer’s power cord is fully plugged into a grounded, dedicated three‑prong outlet.
  2. Test the outlet by plugging in a lamp or similar device to confirm the outlet is supplying power.
  3. Check and reset the home circuit breaker or GFCI outlet if necessary.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not use an extension cord; ensure outlet is properly grounded.

Disengage Control Lock and proper start press

Easy 1–2 minutes
  1. Look for the Control Lock indicator — if lit, hold the Control Lock button for ~3 seconds to disable.
  2. Press and hold the Start button for about 3 seconds to initiate a cycle, as required on many models.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure load door is closed so machine attempts to start.

Verify door/lid closure

Easy 2–5 minutes
  1. Open and firmly close the lid or door until you hear/feel it latch.
  2. Try starting the washer again.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force the door if it appears stuck.

Power cycle the machine

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Unplug the washing machine from its power source.
  2. Wait 3–5 minutes to allow internal electronics to reset.
  3. Plug it back in and attempt to start the machine.

Professional Repairs

Replace electronic control board or user interface

Estimated Cost: $100–$300+

Replace line or thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $20–$80

Repair or replace door lock/lid switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $30–$120

When to Call a Professional

No power after verifying outlet and breaker are functional
Control board shows no response after power cycling
Internal component tests (fuse, wiring) require multimeter diagnostics
Door lock/lid switch suspected broken

Preventive Maintenance

  • Test outlet and breaker periodically: Issues due to power supply faults
    Frequency: annually
  • Keep door/lid latch clean and free of debris: False 'door not closed' condition
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Washing Machine not powering on?
Common causes include power supply issues, control lock activation, or a faulty door lock switch.
How do I fix Amana Washing Machine not powering on myself?
Check the electrical supply, disengage control lock, verify door closure, or power cycle the machine.
How much does it cost to fix not powering on?
Repair costs can range from $20 for fuses to over $300 for control board replacements.
When should I call a technician for not powering on?
If DIY solutions fail, or if the issue seems complex, it's time to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Bad control board (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Contact Whirlpool regarding bad control boards and service bulletin for affected models.

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Help! When plugging in Amana washer it just makes noise with...
  2. Amana NFW5800HW3 Front Load Washing Machine has no power

Community Discussions

makes noise with no lights on

Contact Whirlpool regarding bad control boards and service bulletin for affected models.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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