Top 10 Most Common Washer/Dryer Combo Repair Questions Answered
Why won’t my washer/dryer combo turn on?
If your washer/dryer combo won’t power on, start with the simplest checks. Confirm the unit is plugged in securely and the outlet is working by testing another device. Next, check your breaker panel for a tripped circuit. Many units also have a child lock or “control lock” feature—if enabled, buttons won’t respond, so look for a lock symbol on the display.
If the unit still doesn’t turn on, the problem may be a faulty power cord, door switch, main control board, or internal fuse. At this point, avoid opening the machine unless you’re comfortable with electrical work. ⚠️ Call a professional if breakers, outlet, and visible settings are all fine but there is no sign of power.
| Symptom | Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| No lights at all | Outlet, breaker, power cord |
| Lights but no start | Door switch, control lock |
Why is my combo not draining water properly?
A washer/dryer combo that won’t drain usually has a clog or pump issue. First, pause and unplug the machine. Check and clean the drain filter (coin trap), usually behind a small panel at the front bottom. Place a shallow pan and towels—water will spill out. Remove any coins, lint, or debris.
Next, inspect the drain hose at the back. Make sure it isn’t kinked, crushed, or inserted too far down the standpipe (which can cause siphoning). If the pump hums but no water moves, the drain pump impeller may be blocked or the pump has failed.
Call a professional if:
- The pump is noisy or grinding
- You see leaks coming from underneath
- Cleaning the filter doesn’t improve draining
Why is my washer/dryer combo not drying clothes completely?
Washer/dryer combos often take longer to dry, but clothes should not be soaking wet. First, confirm you’re not overloading the drum—these units have smaller dryer capacities than washer capacities. Separate large loads into two smaller dry cycles. Also verify you’re using high spin speed to remove as much water as possible before drying.
Clean the lint filter (if accessible) and make sure the exhaust vent or condenser system is clear. Condenser-style combos need good airflow around the unit to cool and condense steam. If drying times are extremely long, a failed heating element, thermostat, or blocked internal duct could be to blame.
If you smell burning, see error codes, or the unit never gets warm, stop using it and contact a technician. 🔧
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Takes very long to dry | Overload, low spin, vent restriction |
| No heat at all | Heater, thermostat, wiring issue |
Why does my combo shake, vibrate, or move during spin?
Excessive shaking usually comes from imbalance or installation issues. First, open the door and redistribute the load—heavy items like towels or blankets can clump on one side. Remove a few pieces if the drum is too full. Ensure the machine is on a solid, level surface.
Check the leveling feet at each corner. Use a wrench to adjust them until the unit is stable, then lock them in place. If the combo is new, make sure any shipping bolts in the back were removed; these can cause severe vibration if left in place.
If the unit is level, not overloaded, and still shakes violently, there could be worn suspension rods, shocks, or bearings. In those cases, it’s best to call a professional, as disassembly is extensive.
Why does my washer/dryer combo make loud or unusual noises?
Strange noises can often tell you what’s wrong:
- Rattling or clanking: Foreign objects (coins, buttons, zippers) stuck in the drum or filter.
- Grinding or scraping: Possible drum bearing issue or something caught between drum and tub.
- High-pitched squeal: Worn drive belt or motor components.
- Thumping: Unbalanced load or worn shock absorbers.
Start by checking the drum for loose items and cleaning the drain filter. Run the machine empty on a short cycle to see if the noise remains. If it only happens with large or heavy loads, reduce load size and use a lower spin speed.
Persistent grinding, squealing, or a burning smell are strong signs of mechanical failure. ⚠️ Stop using the appliance and schedule a service visit to avoid further damage.
Why does my washer/dryer combo smell bad (musty or moldy)?
Musty odors are usually caused by mold, mildew, and detergent buildup—especially in front-load combos. First, run a hot “tub clean” or maintenance cycle with either a washer cleaner tablet or 1–2 cups of white vinegar. Wipe the door gasket thoroughly, pulling it back gently to remove trapped lint, hair, and standing water.
Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open between uses to allow air circulation. Switch to HE (high-efficiency) detergent and avoid using too much, as excess soap leaves residue. Regularly clean the drain filter to prevent stagnant water.
If the smell persists even after deep cleaning and you see visible black mold deep inside parts you can’t reach, or you experience slow draining plus odor, a technician may need to clean or replace internal hoses or components.
| Odor Type | Likely Source |
|---|---|
| Musty/moldy | Gasket, drum, filter |
| Rotten/dirty | Standing water in hoses |
Why is my combo leaking water on the floor?
Water leaks can come from several places. First, identify where the water appears:
- Front of the machine: Damaged or dirty door gasket, loose door, or over-sudsing.
- Back of the machine: Loose or cracked water hoses, faulty inlet valves, or drain hose issues.
- Underneath: Tub seal, pump, or internal hose leak (often needs a pro).
Check that inlet and drain hoses are tightly connected and not cracked. Make sure you’re using HE detergent and not exceeding the recommended amount—too many suds can cause leaks and overflow. Inspect the door seal for tears, warping, or buildup and wipe it clean.
If you see continuous dripping from under the unit, rust, or water near the motor area, unplug the combo and call a professional. Internal leaks can lead to electrical hazards. 🚫
Why won’t my washer/dryer combo door unlock?
Most units keep the door locked for a few minutes after the cycle ends for safety. Wait 2–5 minutes and see if it unlocks. If not, turn the machine off and unplug it for about 5 minutes to reset the control board. Check if there is an error code—it may indicate water remaining inside or a drain problem.
If there’s visible water in the drum, try running a drain/spin cycle. Many models include a manual release tab hidden behind the lower front panel or near the door lock; refer to your user manual for the exact location.
Do not force the door open—you can damage the latch and hinge. If the door stays locked with no visible water, and a reset doesn’t help, the door lock mechanism or control board may have failed, and a technician should inspect it.
Why is my washer/dryer combo showing error codes?
Error codes are your machine’s way of telling you what’s wrong, but they vary by brand. Common categories include:
- Drain errors (e.g., E20, OE) – draining problem or clogged filter
- Door errors (e.g., dE, DO) – door not closed or lock faulty
- Water supply errors (e.g., IE, E1) – low water pressure or closed valve
- Overheating/dryer errors – venting, thermostat, or heater issues
First, look up the exact code in your user manual or manufacturer’s website. Follow the suggested steps: clean filters, check hoses, reset power. Often, unplugging for 5–10 minutes can clear temporary glitches.
If the same code keeps reappearing, or you see multiple codes at once, there may be a deeper electrical or sensor issue. That’s the time to call a professional, especially if codes mention the “control board” or “motor.”
How can I tell when it’s time to repair vs. replace my washer/dryer combo?
A good rule of thumb is to compare age, repair cost, and performance:
| Factor | Lean Toward Repair | Lean Toward Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Age of unit | Under 7–8 years | Over 10–12 years |
| Repair cost | < 40–50% of new unit price | > 50% of new unit price |
| Frequency of issues | First or rare problem | Repeated breakdowns in last 12–18 months |
| Performance & features | Still meets your needs | Small capacity, outdated, inefficient |
If you love the space-saving design and the repair is minor (hose, pump, belt, door lock), repair usually makes sense. But if the drum, motor, or control board fails in an older combo, replacement may be more cost-effective.
Also consider energy usage and time—newer models may dry faster and use less water and electricity, saving money long term. 💡
Helpful Tips for Keeping Your Washer/Dryer Combo Running Smoothly
Use the right detergent and amount
Always choose HE detergent and follow the measuring lines. Too much soap causes buildup, odors, and strain on pumps and sensors.Run a monthly cleaning cycle
Use a washer cleaner or hot water with vinegar. Clean the door gasket, detergent drawer, and drain filter regularly to prevent mold and clogs.Avoid overloading
Leave about a hand’s width of space at the top of the drum. For drying, use smaller loads than washing to improve drying efficiency and protect the motor.Keep the door and drawer slightly open
After each use, leave the door and detergent drawer ajar to let moisture escape and reduce mold and musty smells.Check hoses and connections yearly
Inspect inlet and drain hoses for cracks, bulges, or corrosion. Replace rubber hoses every 5 years or sooner if damaged.Respond quickly to unusual signs
New noises, leaks, or error codes are early warnings. Address them quickly with basic troubleshooting or a service call to prevent major repairs later.
