Maytag Washing Machine: not spinning due to unbalanced load

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag washing machine not spinning due to an unbalanced load? This issue often arises from unevenly distributed laundry, overloaded drums, or a washer that isn't level. You may notice loud thumping sounds, vibrations, or the spin cycle failing to start or stopping unexpectedly. Addressing these causes is essential to restore proper function.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag official guidance highlights unbalanced loads in HE top-load washers as common cause and offers load distribution advice.

Possible Causes

Unevenly distributed laundry causing unbalanced load detection

How to Identify: Washer stops spin cycle without error codes apart from balance indication, heavy items all on one side of drum

Part: Drum/Load Distribution

Overloaded or underloaded drum causing imbalance

How to Identify: Washer drum filled beyond recommended capacity or only one large item causing imbalance

Part: Drum/Load Distribution

Washer not level on floor leading to imbalance during spin

How to Identify: Machine shifts/vibrates excessively during spin, uneven feet contact with floor

Part: Leveling Feet/Suspension

Worn suspension rods/shock absorbers causing excessive movement

How to Identify: Persistent imbalance even with balanced loads and level machine, excessive vibration

Part: Suspension/Shock Absorbers

DIY Solutions

Redistribute laundry evenly and reduce load size

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Stop washer and open lid
  2. Rearrange garments so they are evenly distributed around drum
  3. Remove some items if overloaded and restart spin cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Do not overload drum; ensure even weight distribution

Level the washing machine

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: level, wrench or pliers
  1. Use a level on top of washer to check balance
  2. Adjust adjustable feet by turning until machine is level
  3. Recheck level and run a small test load
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug machine before adjusting feet

Professional Repairs

Replace worn suspension/shock absorbers

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Inspect and replace balance-related internal parts (drive hub, gearcase)

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Imbalance persists after redistributing load and leveling
Excessive vibration or noises continue suggesting internal suspension or mechanical issues

Preventive Maintenance

  • Level machine and check feet: Imbalance during spin cycles
    Frequency: monthly
  • Load laundry in balanced groups: Unbalanced load detection and spin stoppage
    Frequency: every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not spinning due to unbalanced load?
Common causes include uneven laundry distribution, overloaded drum, or an unlevel washer.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not spinning due to unbalanced load myself?
Redistribute laundry evenly and reduce load size or level the washing machine.
How much does it cost to fix not spinning due to unbalanced load?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $300 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not spinning due to unbalanced load?
Call a technician if DIY solutions fail or if you suspect internal damage.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

80%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Unbalanced load due to uneven distribution of laundry
  • Overloading the washing machine beyond its capacity
  • Worn or damaged suspension springs or shock absorbers

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Redistribute the laundry evenly in the drum. Remove some items if necessary to balance the load. Restart the spin cycle.

  2. Reduce the load size by removing excess items and ensuring that heavier items are balanced with lighter ones.

  3. Inspect and replace worn suspension springs or shock absorbers if necessary. Consult the manual for specific replacement instructions.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag washing machine

Community Discussions

insists on having a balanced load, soaked bathroom carpet, stops after 2 minutes on drain and spin

Add additional items to balance the load or use different settings.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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