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BACKJAN 12, 2026
How to Fix a Washing Machine That Wont Turn On
BACKJAN 12, 2026
Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
It’s a scenario every homeowner dreads: you’ve got a mountain of laundry ready to go, you load up the machine, press the power button, and… nothing. No beep, no lights, no sound. Just silence. The frustration is real, but before you pick up the phone to schedule an expensive service call, take a deep breath. A washing machine that won’t turn on is one of the most common appliance issues, and the fix is often surprisingly simple and something you can handle yourself in just a few minutes.
Whether your washer is completely dead or showing some cryptic lights but refusing to start, we’re here to help. Think of us as your friendly expert on the other end of the line, ready to walk you through the troubleshooting process step-by-step.
Before we dive into the fixes, let’s understand what’s likely causing the problem. In most cases, a non-starting washer isn’t a sign of a catastrophic failure. The issue usually boils down to one of these four areas:
Ready to get your laundry day back on track? Let’s start with the most basic check.
We'll start with a simple test to figure out where we should focus our attention.
Go to your washing machine and press the power button once. Pay close attention.
If your washer’s display is lit up but it won’t start a cycle, it’s often locked or thinks the door isn’t properly closed.
Modern washing machines are packed with features, and one of them is the Control Lock (sometimes called Child Lock). Its job is to prevent accidental button presses, but it can sometimes be activated without you realizing it.
As a crucial safety feature, your washer will not operate unless it confirms the door is securely closed. A bit of lint, a stray sock, or a faulty switch can prevent this from happening.
If you’ve checked the control lock and the door latch and it still won’t start, the door latch switch itself may have failed. This part typically costs between $20 and $60, but if you're not comfortable replacing it yourself, it's time to call a pro.
If your machine is completely unresponsive—no lights, no sounds—the problem lies somewhere between the wall outlet and the machine's internal components. Let's start with the easiest and most common fix.
A washing machine's powerful motor can sometimes trip a circuit breaker, especially on an older home's electrical system.
If the breaker wasn't the issue, let's make sure the power is actually reaching the machine.
If your washer turns on now, the plug may have simply been loose. If the cord is damaged, it needs to be replaced by a qualified technician.
If you've tried everything above and are still without power, there's one last simple trick to try. Modern appliances are run by internal computers, and just like your laptop, they can sometimes freeze up. A hard reset can often clear the glitch.
This simple act can solve a surprising number of appliance issues. If your washer powers on, congratulations! You've just saved yourself a service call.
You've done an amazing job troubleshooting. You've checked the power, inspected the door, and even performed a hard reset. If your washing machine still won't turn on, the problem is likely an internal component, such as a faulty control board, a broken door latch switch, or an issue with the internal wiring.
At this point, it’s best to call a professional appliance repair technician. The average cost for a technician to diagnose and fix a washing machine ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the specific part that needs replacing.
Fixing a stubborn appliance can feel incredibly rewarding. But for those moments when a problem is beyond a simple DIY fix, it’s good to have a trusted partner on your side.
That’s where the Casa app comes in. We designed Casa to empower homeowners like you. With our app, you get access to easy-to-follow guides for hundreds of home repairs, just like this one. And when you run into a job that requires a professional, Casa connects you with a network of vetted, reliable technicians in your area.
Download the Casa app today and take control of your home maintenance. From a silent washer to a leaky faucet, we’re here to help you get it fixed, fast.
