If your washing machine won’t turn on, check these three things first: (1) Verify the power connection and outlet are working, (2) Ensure the door/lid is fully closed and latched, and (3) Check if the child lock is activated. These simple fixes resolve most power issues without needing a repair technician.
A washing machine that won’t turn on can throw your entire laundry routine into chaos. Before you panic or call for expensive repairs, there are several simple troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and potentially fix the problem yourself. Most power issues stem from simple causes that take just minutes to resolve.
Step 1: Check the Power Supply
The most common reason a washing machine won’t turn on is surprisingly simple—it’s not receiving power.
What to check:
Start by examining the power cord where it plugs into the wall outlet. Make sure it’s fully inserted and hasn’t worked loose from vibrations during previous wash cycles. Look for any visible damage to the cord itself, including fraying, cuts, or exposed wires.
Next, verify that your outlet is functioning. Plug in another appliance, like a phone charger or lamp, to confirm the outlet is providing power. If nothing works in that outlet, check your home’s circuit breaker panel. A tripped breaker will be in the middle or “off” position. Reset it by switching it fully off, then back on.
If your washing machine is plugged into a GFCI outlet (the kind with reset buttons, common in laundry rooms), press the reset button. These outlets trip when they detect electrical irregularities and need to be manually reset.
For machines with a power button, make sure you’re holding it down for the full duration required. Some models need the button pressed for 2-3 seconds before they’ll power on.
Step 2: Ensure the Door or Lid is Properly Closed
Modern washing machines have built-in safety mechanisms that prevent operation if the door or lid isn’t securely closed.
What to check:
Open and close your washing machine door or lid firmly, ensuring you hear a distinct click. The latch must engage completely for the machine to recognize it’s safe to operate. Over time, these latches can become misaligned or accumulate lint and detergent residue that prevents proper closure.
Inspect the door latch and strike plate for any visible debris. Wipe both components with a damp cloth to remove any buildup. If you have a front-loading machine, check that nothing is caught in the rubber door seal that might prevent it from closing completely.
Some washing machines have a slight delay between closing the door and allowing the machine to start. Wait 5-10 seconds after closing the door before attempting to start a cycle.
If the latch appears broken, bent, or doesn’t click into place, this may require replacement. However, try cleaning it thoroughly first, as this often resolves the issue.
Step 3: Deactivate the Child Lock Feature
Many washing machines include a child lock feature designed to prevent accidental operation or changes to settings mid-cycle. If activated, this feature can make it appear as though your machine won’t turn on.
What to check:
Look at your washing machine’s control panel for a child lock indicator, often shown as a key or padlock icon. If this symbol is lit or displayed, the child lock is engaged.
To deactivate the child lock, you’ll typically need to press and hold a specific button or combination of buttons for 3-5 seconds. The exact method varies by manufacturer and model. Common combinations include holding the temperature and spin speed buttons simultaneously, or pressing and holding the start/pause button.
Check your washing machine’s user manual for the specific deactivation procedure for your model. If you don’t have the physical manual, you can usually find a PDF version by searching online for your machine’s brand and model number plus “user manual.”
Once deactivated, the child lock indicator should disappear from the display, and normal operation should resume.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve worked through all three troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t turn on, the issue may require professional diagnosis. Potential problems that need expert attention include a faulty control board, damaged wiring, a broken door lock mechanism, or a failed thermal fuse.
Contact a qualified appliance repair technician if you notice burning smells, sparking, or if your machine is still under warranty. Attempting complex electrical repairs yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
Prevention Tips
To minimize future power issues with your washing machine, avoid overloading the outlet with multiple high-power appliances, regularly clean the door latch and seals, and ensure proper ventilation around the machine to prevent overheating. Periodically check that the power cord hasn’t been damaged by the machine’s vibrations or movement.