A washing machine that gets stuck during the spin cycle is a frustrating and inconvenient problem for any household. You’ve loaded the clothes, the wash and rinse cycles have completed, and just when it’s time for the machine to wring out the water — it halts. The laundry is soaked, the machine sits idle, and you’re left wondering what went wrong.
In most cases, this issue points to either a mechanical imbalance — such as an unbalanced load — or a more serious electronic failure. Understanding the difference between these two possibilities can help you troubleshoot the problem and decide whether a simple adjustment or professional repair is required.
Unbalanced Load: A Common but Often Fixable Cause
The most frequent reason for a washing machine pausing or getting stuck during spin is an unbalanced load. This occurs when the clothes inside the drum are distributed unevenly. For instance, washing a single large blanket or mixing heavy towels with light garments can cause one side of the drum to be heavier than the other.
Most modern washing machines are equipped with sensors that detect imbalance. If the load isn’t evenly distributed, the machine will either attempt to rebalance itself or stop the spin cycle altogether to avoid excessive vibration or internal damage.
Signs of an unbalanced load include:
- Loud banging noises during spin
- Washer shifts or “walks” during operation
- The spin cycle starts but doesn’t complete
- Wet clothes at the end of the cycle
How to fix it:
- Pause the cycle and redistribute the laundry manually
- Avoid washing a single heavy item alone
- Wash similar fabrics together to balance weight
- Don’t overload or underload the drum
If this solves the problem, then your machine is functioning properly. But if the issue persists even with a well-balanced load, the problem may lie deeper within the system.
Electronic Failures: More Complex and Often Hidden
If your washing machine continues to stop during spin, even with evenly loaded laundry, it could be due to electronic or mechanical failure. These types of problems aren’t as easy to diagnose without professional tools and training.
1. Control Board Malfunction
The control board is the brain of your washing machine. It governs the timing and sequence of all functions. If it’s damaged or shorted due to a power surge, age, or moisture, the spin cycle may never initiate or complete. The machine might freeze at certain stages or shut off randomly.
2. Faulty Sensors
Modern washers depend on various sensors to operate correctly. A load sensor, door sensor, or speed sensor can become faulty, leading the washer to misinterpret the status of the drum. If the machine wrongly detects that the load is imbalanced, or that the drum isn’t spinning fast enough, it may halt operations prematurely.
3. Door Lock Malfunction
For safety, washing machines lock the door during spin. If the door lock mechanism fails or doesn’t send the right signal to the control board, the machine will refuse to spin. This is a safety protocol, but when malfunctioning, it can leave you with a stuck cycle and dripping wet laundry.
4. Drive Belt or Motor Issues
In some top-load models, a worn-out or broken drive belt can stop the drum from spinning. Similarly, a faulty motor may not generate enough torque to start or maintain the spin cycle. This requires disassembly and replacement of mechanical parts — not something to tackle without experience.
What Should You Do Next?
If your washing machine stops during spin once or twice due to unbalanced loads, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, recurring spin cycle issues, especially after attempting basic fixes, indicate a more serious problem.
Rather than risk further damage or voiding your warranty with DIY attempts, your best option is to contact professionals who can accurately diagnose and repair the problem.
We’re Here to Help
At Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company, we specialize in fast, effective washing machine repairs. Our experienced technicians are trained to handle all types of malfunctions — from minor imbalances to complex control board failures. We work with all major brands and models.
When your washer stops spinning, don’t let your laundry pile up or risk a bigger breakdown. Let us get your appliance — and your routine — back on track.
Contact Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company today.
📞 Call us at (619) 880-5508
to book your service appointment.