If your washing machine is not working properly, it could be due to many things. Some of these things you will be able to take care of on your own, and others will require a washer repair service. Below are three common problems that are often found so you can get your washing machine running again. Before you do anything, however, unplug the washer to ensure it is completely off. 

1. Detergent Will Not Dispense

If you finish washing your clothes and find that the water dispenser is still full of detergent, this can be due to a dirty dispenser. For example, if there is any type of clog or reside built up this will prevent the detergent from dispensing.

To take care of this, you can clean the dispenser. You should do this at least once a month to ensure it does not happen again. You can use distilled white vinegar to clean this. Fill a cup of the vinegar in a microwave proof bowl, and then run the microwave until the detergent is warm but not hot. Pour the warm vinegar into the detergent dispenser, and then run your washer through a regular cycle. As the washer runs the vinegar will go through the dispenser.

2. Washer Overheats

If you find that your washer is overheating, there could be a problem with the motor. You will know that it is overheating because the washer will likely turn completely off, and the washer will feel hot to the touch. You may also smell a burnt type smell if the problem is very bad.

In a case like this you should contact a washer repair shop. They may be able to repair the motor, but in most cases, they will need to replace it with a new one. The repair person will also determine why the motor is overheating and repair this problem also.

3. Water Is Not Completely Draining

If there is water in the washer after you wash the clothes, then it is not draining properly. Clogs in a drain hose can cause this problem. You can remove the drain hose from the washer to see if it is clogged. If it is, you can flush out the clog using a garden hose. To get to the drain hose pull the washer out and remove the back panel by removing the screws. Once you open this you will see three hoses. The largest hose is the drain hose. If you are not sure how to remove it from the washing machine refer to the owner's manual. In most cases clothing is causing the clog, such as a sock.

If you find there is no clog in the drain hose, then this problem could be caused by the pump being bad. If this is the case, it will require a professional to repair the washer.

Talk with a washer repair contractor to learn much more about these problems.