GE top load washer owners may sometimes experience their washing machine pausing itself during a cycle.
This issue can be frustrating, but there are several possible causes and solutions to this problem. Here, we will discuss the most common reasons for a GE washer pausing itself and how to resolve them.
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How To Fix A GE Top Load Washer That Keeps Pausing?
Here are a few things you can try when your GE washer keeps pausing by itself:
- Replace the lid switch mechanism if the washer senses the door isn’t locked securely.
- Replace the malfunctioning control panel to ensure proper communication with the machine.
- Remove any debris from the drain pump and check the impeller for damage or mobility issues.
- Switch to HE detergent to prevent excess suds that can cause pausing.
- Check wiring and connections, inspect the hose for kinks or blockages, and replace the pressure switch if necessary.
Let’s dive into some more detail below.
Faulty Door Lock
One of the most common problems leading to a GE top load washer pausing during a cycle is a faulty door lock. The washing machine may pause if it senses that the door is not securely locked.
If this is the issue, you may need to replace the lid switch mechanism. This video shows how to do that:
Control Panel Issues
Another possible cause for a GE washer pausing during a cycle is a malfunctioning control panel.
If the control panel is not working properly, it may not be able to communicate the appropriate commands to the rest of the machine, causing it to pause.
In this case, you may need to replace the control panel.
Drain Pump Obstructions
A washer may pause if it is unable to pump out water due to an obstruction in the drain pump. To resolve this issue, follow these steps:
- Remove the three screws at the bottom and remove the bottom panel.
- Remove the drain pump cover (have towels or a pan to catch any water that comes out).
- Remove any debris from the pump, check that the impeller is not damaged, and ensure it can move freely.
- Reinstall the drain pump cover and bottom panel.
Incorrect Detergent
Using a non-HE (High-Efficiency) detergent in a high-efficiency washing machine may cause excess suds, which can lead to the machine pausing.
If you are not using HE detergent, switch to an HE detergent and run a cycle to see if this resolves the issue.
Pressure Switch Issues
If your GE washer keeps pausing, it might be related to the pressure switch. The pressure switch detects the water level in the washer and sends signals to the control panel to start or stop the water flow.
If the pressure switch is malfunctioning, it may cause the washer to pause during the cycle. To address this issue, you can try the following:
- Locate the pressure switch, which is typically found near the control panel or the tub.
- Check the wiring and connections to the pressure switch to ensure they are secure and undamaged.
- Inspect the pressure switch hose for kinks, blockages, or damage. If necessary, clear any blockages or replace the hose. d. If the wiring and hose are in good condition, consider replacing the pressure switch itself.
Run a Diagnostic Test
Running a diagnostic test can help you identify the specific issue causing your GE washer to pause. Consult your washer’s user manual for instructions on how to perform a diagnostic test.
The test may provide you with an error code or other information that can help you pinpoint the problem.
Conclusion
If your GE washer keeps pausing itself during a cycle, there are several potential causes to investigate.
By checking for faulty door locks, control panel issues, drain pump obstructions, incorrect detergent use, or pressure switch problems, you can identify the source of the issue and take appropriate steps to resolve it.
If you are unable to diagnose the problem yourself or the issue persists, consider contacting a professional appliance repair service.
Thanks for reading!