My Frigidaire Top Load Stacked Washer & Dryer Will Not Agitate
The washing machine of a Frigidaire top-load stacked washer and dryer set should agitate during the wash cycle, just as any typical washer would do. If the washing machine won’t agitate, it usually means there’s a problem with the washer’s direct drive system or belt, depending upon the washing machine model you’re using. Yet before you contact Frigidaire to schedule an appointment to have your stacked washer and dryer serviced, there are two other areas you ought to check on the washer as possible explanations for the lack of agitation.
Lid
On most Frigidaire washing machines, including top-load washers that are part of a stacked washer and dryer set, the washer’s lid must be shut for the washer to agitate as a safety precaution. If the lid is open, your washing machine may start to fill but won’t advance to the agitation cycle until the lid is closed, according to the Frigidaire website. Confirm that the door is shut and that there’s nothing between the lid and cabinet, such as an article of clothing that might be keeping the lid slightly ajar. Before starting a wash cycle, always ensure that the door is shut so that the washing machine advances normally.
Locking Mechanism
If the lid’s locking mechanism breaks, a top-load stacked Frigidaire washing machine won’t agitate even if the lid is shut. The locking feature is common on most Frigidaire washing machine types. The locking mechanism generally consists of a lid switch on the cabinet that connects to a tab on the lid. The two components must join together when the lid closes, or the washer won’t advance through a complete wash cycle. The lid should make a clicking sound when you close it. Open and close the lid several times if you don’t hear any noise; the locking mechanism may have failed. Swap out the old locking mechanism for a new one.
Direct Drive System
Certain top-load stacked washers have a direct drive system while other, usually older, models rely on a belt to turn the drum. A direct drive system’s main component is a motor coupler that rotates the drum based on direction from the motor and transmission. The motor coupler is a relatively inexpensive part that’s either made of rubber, plastic or both. It’s often located on the motor’s shaft next to the transmission. The disc-like component rotates along with the drum and helps support its motion. Over time, the coupling can wear, and, when it does, the washer typically won’t agitate or spin. After filling, the washing machine will remain still or possibly move, but the motion may be rather weak. Due to the difficultly in locating the motor coupler without dissembling your washer, having a Frigidaire repair specialist complete the repair is generally easiest.
Belt
Older Frigidaire top-load washing machines -- both stacked and standalone models -- frequently agitate and spin with assistance from a rubber belt. The belt provides support to allow the drum to move in consistent, regular motions. If the belt slips or severs, the drum’s ability to agitate and spin will be severely limited. Review the washing machine’s manual for a diagram of your top-load stacked washer and dryer to help you find the belt. You’ll almost certainly need to remove the washing machine’s main panel to view the drum and the belt, which should surround it. Once located, verify that the belt is securely around the drum’s center and isn’t frayed or broken. Replace the belt if it appears damaged or out of place.
References
Writer Bio
Christie Gross has been writing since 1998. Her work writing public policy platforms for elected officials nationwide has been featured in national and local newspapers under various client pen names. Gross has a Bachelor of Arts in English and political science, as well as a Master of Public Administration from the University of Delaware.
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