Speed Queen washers have long been known for being durable and reliable. Those qualities have made them popular for commercial and residential use.
However, like every other washer or appliance, Speed Queen washers are prone to develop faults and inconvenience their users. From the washer not turning on to excessive vibration and noise, these common problems can frustrate users.
That’s why, in this article, we’ll explore the eight most common Speed Queen washer problems and provide solutions to help you resolve the issues quickly and effectively.
By understanding these problems and how to prevent or fix them, you can ensure that your Speed Queen washer continues functioning at its best for years.
The Most Common Problems with Speed Queen washer
Speed Queen washers are known for their durability and reliability, but like any appliance, they can experience problems over time.
In this section, we will discuss some of the most common problems that users may encounter with their Speed Queen washing machines and the solutions to these problems.
1. The Washer is not Turning on.
If you notice that your Speed Queen washer is not turning on, the first thing to check is the power supply. When checking the power supply, ensure the washer is correctly plugged in and the fuse or household breaker has not tripped.
If the power supply isn’t the source of the issue, it might be a problem with the timer, control board, or lid switch.
A faulty timer or control board can prevent the washer from receiving the required signals to start the cycle.
In this case, an appliance repair technician is recommended to have it inspected, repaired, or replaced.
2. The Washer is not Spinning or Agitating.
If your washer is not spinning or agitating, it could indicate a more severe problem. The most common causes include a broken drive belt, motor coupling, or transmission.
The drive belt in the washer connects the motor to the drum of the washer, and if the drive belt gets broken or loose, it can make the machine stop spinning or agitating. Similarly, a broken or worn motor coupling can cause the same problem.
If this problem persists, it may be due to a malfunctioning transmission. In this case, having an appliance repair technician inspect and repair the machine is highly recommended. Trying to fix it yourself can result in further damage and may also cause a safety hazard.
3. Leaking Water.
Have you noticed water leaking from your washer? If you have, it may be a cause for concern as it could lead to water damage and other problems.
The most common causes of water leaks in washers are faulty inlet valves, drain hoses, or water pumps. To diagnose the problem, check those components for any signs of wear, blockage, or damage, and repair or replace them as needed.
It’s also vital to ensure the washer is leveled correctly, as an uneven washer can cause or result in leaks. Ensure that all four feet of the washer are in full contact with the floor—you can do this by adjusting feet as needed.
Addressing these issues can prevent further damage and reduce the risk of costly repairs.
4. Excessive Vibration or Noise.
If your washer makes loud noises or vibrates excessively during operation, it can indicate an underlying problem.
The most common reasons behind loud noises or excessive vibrations are an unbalanced load, damaged or lose components, or a problem with the suspension system. If your washer is overloaded or carries an unbalanced load, redistribute the load and try rerunning the washer.
If the problem persists after trying that, check for loose or damaged parts and tighten or replace them as needed. If this also doesn’t solve the problem, then you should have an appliance repair technician inspect and repair the washer.
Note that ignoring excessive vibration or noise can damage your home’s washer or other appliances, so it’s advisable to address the issue as quickly as possible.
5. The Clothes are not Clean.
Do clothes come out dirty from your washer after a wash cycle? If they do, it can be very frustrating and often indicate an underlying problem with your washer.
There are a few causes for this problem. To fix it, first, check the dispenser and filter for any buildup or blockages. This is done because, over time, those components accumulate dirt, lint, and other debris that can affect the washer’s ability to clean dirty clothes effectively.
You must clean or replace the components to improve the washer’s performance. In addition, ensure that you are using the appropriate amount of detergent for the load size, as using too much detergent can cause buildup and leave clothes looking unclean.
Lastly, ensure that the water supply is sufficient for the machine to function properly, as insufficient water supply can result in inadequate cleansing and rinsing.
6. Foul Odor.
If you notice a foul odor coming from your washer, it’s likely due to the buildup of mildew or mold inside the machine. Mold and mildew are microorganisms that thrive in warm, moist environments, making a washer an ideal breeding ground.
To eliminate the odor coming from the washer, clean the inside of your washer with a solution of bleach and water. Doing this will kill all the remaining mildew or mold and remove the associated odors.
You can also run a wash cycle with hot water and vinegar to sanitize and eliminate any remaining odors.
To avoid mold and mildew from forming in the future, keep the washing door open after usage and allow it to dry completely before closing it.
7. Error codes.
Speed Queen washers are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can detect issues with the machine and display error codes on the control panel. These error codes were designed to help users identify the specific problem behind the problems they are experiencing.
To determine what each error code means and how to address them, consult the user manual provided by your manufacturer. It’s also essential to address these error codes quickly, as ignoring them may further damage your machine, incur costly repairs, or even cause you to replace the whole machine.
8. Slow-filling or Draining.
If you find out that your Speed Queen washer is filling or draining slowly, it could be due to a few common problems.
For this problem, the first thing you’d want to do is to check the water inlet valves and the drain hoses for any blockages. This is done because, over time, those components can become clogged with dirt, lint, or other debris capable of impeding the water flow.
To restore normal water flow, you may be required to clean or replace those components. In addition, ensure that the water pressure in your home is sufficient for your machine to function properly, as the low water pressure can cause the device to fill and drain slowly and, in some cases, not work.
In this case, you may need a plumber to check the water pressure and make necessary adjustments to improve the machine’s performance.
In conclusion, regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent many common problems with Speed Queen washers.
Speed Queen Washer Problems: Are they a deal breaker?
While no appliance on the planet is entirely immune to problems, Speed Queen washers have long been known for their durability and reliability. However, as you’d expect with every other appliance, they develop faults as you continue using them.
Some of the most common problems associated with Speed Queen washers include the washer not turning on, leaking water, not spinning or agitating, loud noise or excessive vibrations, etc.
While the above problems can be frustrating, it’s important to note that most of the issues you’ll encounter using the Speed Queen washer can be prevented with proper maintenance and care.
One of the most important things you can do to prevent your washer from experiencing problems is to clean the filter and dispenser regularly. Over time, these components can become clogged with lint, dirt, and other debris, which can cause the washer to perform poorly or not at all.
Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the washer is level and that the load is evenly distributed. If the washer is tilted or the load is unbalanced (heavy load on one side), it can cause excessive vibration and noise, leading to damage over time.
Even when a problem occurs, many of the problems you’ll face can be fixed easily by replacing the faulty components. For example, if the washer is not spinning or agitating, it may be due to a broken drive belt, motor coupling, or transmission, and these components can be replaced easily.
In addition to proper maintenance and care, Speed Queen washers have error codes that can help diagnose specific issues. By referring to the user manual for a list of error codes and their corresponding solutions, you can often find a solution to the problem without needing help from anyone.
While persistent problems may require the assistance of a professional technician, in most cases, the problems associated with Speed Queen washers are not deal breakers.
With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy your Speed Queen washer for many years, knowing that it is a reliable and durable appliance that will keep your clothes clean and fresh.