Samsung Washing Machine: not spinning properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your Samsung washing machine not spinning properly? This can manifest as slow spins, stopping mid-cycle, or leaving clothes excessively wet. Often, this problem is linked to unbalanced loads or drainage issues, resulting in error codes like Ub/UE. Identifying the root cause can help restore your machine's performance efficiently.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Samsung Models

  • Samsung washers may display imbalance error codes like Ub/UE preventing spin; redistributing load often resolves it
  • Samsung front‑load models have accessible drain pump filters at bottom front; cleaning these can often restore proper spin

Possible Causes

Unbalanced or oversized laundry load

How to Identify: Spin cycle skipped or stops early, machine shows imbalance error (e.g., Ub/UE and drum feels heavier on one side.

Part: Drum / load distribution sensors

Drainage blockage (pump filter or drain hose)

How to Identify: Water remains in tub at spin stage, slow or no draining, possible clogs visible in filter or hose.

Part: Drain pump filter, drain hose

Faulty door lock / lid switch

How to Identify: For front‑load: door not latching, DC error; for top‑load: lid switch fails to click or register, spin doesn’t start despite proper load.

Part: Door lock assembly / lid switch

Drive belt wear or breakage

How to Identify: Drum doesn’t turn or turns freely by hand; machine makes motor sound without spinning; possible belt slack or break.

Part: Drive belt

Bearing or tub support failure

How to Identify: Loud grinding/clunking noises during attempted spin, excessive vibration, very poor spinning.

Part: Drum bearings/tub supports

Motor or control board fault

How to Identify: No spin despite proper load and drainage, no belt issues, error codes present, machine unresponsive at spin stage.

Part: Motor, control electronics

DIY Solutions

Redistribute or reduce laundry load

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Open washer and redistribute clothes evenly in drum
  2. Remove excess items if overloaded, ensure about 80% fill and balance heavy items with lighter ones
  3. Run a spin‑only cycle to test
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force door/lid open during cycle

Clean drain pump filter and inspect drain hose

Moderate 10–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Towels, shallow pan, screwdriver (if needed)
  1. Turn off power and locate access panel at bottom front
  2. Place towels/pan to catch water, open filter cap and pull out debris
  3. Inspect and rinse the filter, inspect drain hose for kinks/blockages
  4. Reinstall filter and run a drain & spin cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Expect water spill when opening filter; disconnect power first

Check and test door lock / lid switch

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter (optional)
  1. Ensure door closes fully and latch clicks
  2. For top‑loader, lift lid and manually press lid switch to see if spin engages
  3. If faulty, replace door lock/lid switch assembly following model instructions
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before part replacement

Inspect drive belt condition

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, socket set, Flashlight
  1. Unplug washer and pull unit away from wall
  2. Remove rear panel to access belt
  3. Examine belt for wear, cracking, or slippage
  4. Replace belt if damaged per manufacturer instructions
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power disconnected; belt tension handling can be tricky

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings / tub support

Estimated Cost: $200–$500+

Motor or control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $250–$600+

When to Call a Professional

After trying DIY checks for load balance and drainage with no improvement
If drive belt, motor, control board, or bearings are suspected
If loud grinding or unusual noises accompany spin failure

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain pump filter: Drainage blockages that prevent spin
    Frequency: monthly or quarterly
  • Level the washer: Imbalance and vibration issues
    Frequency: After installation or relocation
  • Avoid overloading: Load imbalance and drivetrain strain
    Frequency: Every wash

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Washing Machine not spinning properly?
Common causes include an unbalanced load, drainage blockage, or a faulty door lock.
How do I fix Samsung Washing Machine not spinning properly myself?
Redistribute laundry, clean the drain filter, and check the door lock for issues.
How much does it cost to fix not spinning properly?
Professional repairs range from $200 to $600+ depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not spinning properly?
If DIY solutions fail or if you suspect a motor or control board issue, call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Unbalanced load (1 mentions)
  • Suspension issues (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check for unbalanced load and replace suspension rods if necessary.

    Success rate: 33.0%

  2. Consider replacing speed control board or load sensor.

    Success rate: 0.0%
Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. What stackable washer/dryers are actually recommended?
  2. Samsung washing machine having weird spinning behavior...
  3. Samsung Washing Machine keeps adding additional time.

Community Discussions

Washing machine keeps adding additional time and water during spin cycle

Check for unbalanced load and replace suspension rods if necessary.

DIY View on Reddit →

issues with the washer during the spin cycle

LG WashTower is recommended by some users, but Electrolux is preferred by others.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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