If your Hotpoint washing machine isn’t longer agitating during the washing cycle, it could be painful and tiring to hand wash your clothes. However, before getting a repairman in or an entire new washing machine, there are a few ways to troubleshoot to solve the problem yourself. In this article, we’ll explain the most commonly-cited causes for the Hotpoint washer which isn’t moving and provide step-by-step instructions on how to resolve the issue. From a damaged drive belt to a damaged lid switch, we’ll cover it all, making your life easier and saving money in the process. If your Hotpoint washing machine is not agitating, don’t despair take a look at this article to discover how to solve it.
Agitator : In the top-loading Hotpoint washing machine the agitator is used to move the clothes through detergent and water. It is driven by the output shaft of the transmission. The output shaft is generally divided into splined sections, and the center of the plastic agitator will have an identical spline, which ensures an ideal fit. The agitator could be made of one piece or a dual-action model, dependent on the manufacturer. How to examine the agitator inside a Hotpoint washing machine.
- Remove the Hotpoint washing machines from the source of power.
- To get to the agitator, remove the top cover , or fabric softener dispenser, depending on the model. It is possible to manually turn the agitator. When it’s splined there should be some resistance.
- Take the agitator off the appliance in order to examine it more closely. The majority of agitators remain in position by a bolt that connects to the top of the transmission shaft. Certain models feature a set screw just above the base which connects the motor to its shaft. Some models use an O ring made of rubber that helps ensure a secure fit.
- If your agitator is damaged or worn-out on any part of it particularly the splines, or if you feel little or no resistance when turning it manually, you’ll require Hotpoint replacement agitator.
Agitator Directional Cogs
On top loading Hotpoint washers that use an agitator that has dual action, it is possible for the upper portion of the agitator to disconnect from the bottom portion. The directional cogs made of hard plastic or “dogs” are what drive the upper part of the agitator. They are susceptible to wear and tear after a long period of usage. The directional cogs may wear out if they are in the upper portion of the washing machine’s agitator is not turning in the desired direction or making grating sounds during the wash cycle. How to check the directional cogs of a Hotpoint washer:
- The model you have is dependent on it.
- Disconnect your Hotpoint washer, and remove the fabric softener dispenser.
- Locate your agitator cogs. It is possible to take off the cap on your agitator, base or top, depending on the model, to access the cogs.
- Visually inspect the cogs to see if there are any scratches, discolorations, or wear. Also, ensure sure there aren’t any missing cogs.
- If your cogs display any of the signs mentioned above, you’ll require an entire set of Hotpoint replacement directional cogs.
Agitator Coupler & Cap & Bolt
Some models of top loading Hotpoint washers have a coupler between the transmission shaft and the agitator. The drive coupler is splined from the inside to match the transmission, and splined on the outside to match the agitator. The drive coupling can be damaged if the Hotpoint washer makes a grinding sound during wash cycles , or if the agitator does not spin freely. How to inspect and repair the agitator coupler on aHotpoint washing machine:
- Before beginning the inspection, shut off your Hotpoint washer.
- In order to gain access to the agitator coupler, you will first need to remove the dispenser for fabric softeners or top cover, depending on the model. Lastly, you will then need to remove the agitator.
- Unthread the bolt holding the coupler to the shaft of transmission and remove it from the appliance. Examine the coupler for indications of damage, cracks or burning, rust or wear.
- If you discover any of these problems, you’ll require Hotpoint replacement coupler for agitators.
Direct Drive Motor Coupling
Some top load washers from Hotpoint use a direct drive motor coupling that transfers energy from the motor to the transmission. The drive coupling is made comprised of two drive forks and a rubber coupling. It is connected to the motor with the transmission. The drive shaft is attached to one fork while the other one is connected an input shaft for the transmission. The coupling made of rubber between drive forks absorbs the torque generated by the shaft of the motor to stop them from breaking. The normal use of the forks will cause wear to the coupling. Eventually the drive forks may slide off and not connect to the transmission or clutch. One indication of a damaged motor coupling on a Hotpoint washing machine is that it fills and drains normally, but does not spin or agitate. How to test the motor coupling of theHotpoint washing machine:
- Before you begin, disconnect your appliance from the source of power.
- For a thorough inspection of the coupling of your motor, find the coupling and pull it out. You’ll have to open the Hotpoint washer’s cupboard to access it. In accordance with the model, you may also need remove the drain pump or motor.
- After you’ve removed your item, examine your coupling closely for signs of wear, tear cracks, cracks, etc.
- You’ll need a new direct drive motor coupling Hotpoint if you experience any of these signs.
Drive Belt :Some models of top-loading Hotpoint washers utilize a belt to drive the transmission. The belt could be to blame if the washing machine ceases to move. How to determine if yourHotpoint washing-machine drive belt should be replaced:
- Unplug the Hotpoint washer, then remove the access panel or cabinet to locate the drive belt.
- You can disconnect the clamps which hold the belt in place and remove the drive belt from the drive motor.
- Check your drive belt visually. Examine for wear, fraying or other signs of wear and tear to the drive belt.
- You will need a new Hotpoint drive belt in the event that your belt displays any of these signs.
Transmission
The transmission in a top load Hotpoint washer has the responsibility of turning the rotating motion of the motor into the forward and back motions for the agitator. Transmissions are equipped with an input shaft which is driven either by the motor directly , or via belt. An output shaft drives the agitator. You must ensure that your agitator drive shaft is operating properly before you replace it. The transmission could be at fault If the input shaft spins however the agitator shaft does not turn. Most manufacturers do not provide the internal components required for a complete transmission. It is essential that you can replace the tub seal at the point where the shaft goes into the tub. How to inspect the transmission of Hotpoint washing machine:
- Before inspecting your transmission check to ensure that the problem isn’t caused by the agitator or other component. If you have ruled out the agitator, disconnect your washer, open the cabinet, and locate the transmission.
- Once you have located the problem with your transmission, plug your washing machine back in and run the wash cycle to see if the transmission is the source of the problem. There will be strange noises when the system is malfunctioning. Be careful when performing this procedure since the internal components of your dryer are exposed.
- You’ll require a replacement Hotpoint transmission when the transmission starts to become loud.
Drive Motor
Top load Hotpoint washers employ motors that drive the transmission. The majority of Hotpoint washing machines use an inverse motor, which means the motor is rotated in one direction for agitating and the opposite to drain and spin. Motors may work in the spin direction, but not towards the direction of the agitation. How do you test aHotpoint washing-machine drive motor:
- Before you begin, shut off the power source from your Hotpoint appliance.
- Remove the cabinet of your Hotpoint washer to locate and take out the drive motor. You’ll need to unplug the wires connected to the motor in order to disconnect it from the appliance. This is done by pulling the metal connectors, and not the wires.
- The multimeter must be in Rx1 mode. Put the probes at the motor’s terminals to check for continuity. You should receive a reading of zero or close to zero.
- To test the ground connection test the ground connection, place one probe on the terminal, and then place another one in the housing made of metal on the drive motor. The test will not reveal any data.
- If your readings differ from those described above, you’ll need an Hotpoint replacement drive motor.
Timer
The drive motor is controlled by the timer, lid switch, water level switch, or sometimes, the selector switch. The function of the timer is to provide the proper power to activate the motor in the correct direction. The timer may be in error if motor driving the washer fails to get power during the wash phase. Test the timer in theHotpoint washer using a multi-meter
- As with most repairs, start by disconnecting your Hotpoint washer from its power source.
- The control panel must be removed along with the back panel of your appliance to find the timer.
- Disconnect the wires to the timer by pulling on the metal connectors but not the wires and then remove the timer from the washer in order to test it.
- For testing continuity, utilize a multimeter using the Rx1 setting. The result should be of zero or close to zero.
- If you do not get this reading, you will require a Hotpoint replacement timer.
Lid switch
The lid switch is a safety feature found on top-loading Hotpoint washer machines. The motor circuit is connected to the lid switch, which is usually located under the main top. It has to be turned on to allow the motor’s operation. A projection or pin on the lid presses against and closes the lever of the lid when it is closed. The lid switch must be examined if the Hotpoint washing machine doesn’t move or the motor doesn’t get any electricity. How to check the switch that controls the lid on the lid of a Hotpoint washer:
- Begin by disconnecting the Hotpoint washer and then take out the top panel.
- Find the switch and confirm whether it’s activated when the lid is closed. To determine if it’s, take the switch out.
- Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting, touch the probes to terminals then press and hold the switch button down. The multimeter should show the reading as zero or near zero.
- You’ll need a new Hotpoint lid switch if your test results are different.
Selector Shift
Some models come with a selector switch that controls the speed of motor. If the switch is not working properly, it might prevent the motor from working. How to test the switch in the Hotpoint washing machine using a multi-meter
- Unplug your Hotpoint washing machine prior to starting as you will be handling electrical components.
- Locate and take off the switch for selecting from your Hotpoint appliance. It likely will be secured to the frame of your Hotpoint washer. It is necessary to take off all or a part of your cabinet in order to get it out of the way.
- Test for continuity using a multimeter using the Rx1 setting. Touch the probes to the terminals and press the first button. The reading should change from infinity to zero. As long as the probes remain connected to the terminals, push in on another button, the reading should return to infinity.
- If the results of your test differ from the ones above, you will need Hotpoint alternative selector switch.
Water Level Switch
The water level switch is located on top-load Hotpoint washers . It allows you to select the appropriate water level. This switch also provides power to the drive motor. When the correct water level has been reached, the switch will disconnect the power source from the water intake valve and supply power to the drive motor circuit. If the washer fills up but does not agitate then the pressure switch could be malfunctioning. How to test the level of water in a Hotpoint washer.
- Disconnect the power supply from the Hotpoint washer.
- The switch for water level is normally located behind the control panel. However, it can also be found at the sump area below the tubs.
- Before changing the switch, you must first get rid of the air dome to determine the cause. In the water, submerge the hose and seal it. Next, blow air at the other end, and look for bubbles. Also, look for any obstructions within the hose as well as look for indications of cracks or wear.
- If the air dome hose you are using isn’t running, it could be time to get a new water level switch from Hotpoint.