When attempting to repair a washing machine, the first step would be to diagnose the problem, and then check the basic connections and problems before attempting to remove the tub and motor. One of the first places to look for the answer would be the operating manual that was furnished when the machine was purchased. All of these documents will have a small section to help decide what the problem is, and it will suggest a possible solution.
Begin by deciding exactly what is not working correctly. Check the water inlet hoses to make sure that they are not kinked or leaking, and that the water is actually turned on. Check the connections that are attached to the wall, as well as the ones that are screwed into the back of the machine. Any blockages or problems at these simple points could not only cause water to leak, but it could make the machine not work at all because the water levels will not be high enough to kick the machine on. These basic, but important, connections are the first objects to analyze when attempting to repair a washing machine.
If the home appliance will not turn on at all, check the fuse panel to make sure that it has not been tripped. When trying to repair a washing machine always start with the easiest and most obvious steps first, then move on to the more complicated ones. Next, check the switch in the lid to make sure that it is not stuck open, meaning that the machine will not turn on because it appears that the lid is open. If the problem is still not found, pull out the switches from the back and use a tester to see if they are working properly.
The final step that should be done when trying to repair a washing machine, after the basic items listed above have been checked, is to take the washer apart and check the belts and motor, as well as the agitator and spinner. Most of these can be tested by turning them by hand; if they are stuck in place, then they probably need to be replaced. Also use the tester to check the wiring that connects to them, making sure that power is getting to them.
These are the basic steps to take when a washing machine does not work properly. Just keep in mind that when attempting to repair a washing machine that each particular brand, model, and year will be different. Some of them have electronic controls which can go out, while others run off of a simple dial and on/off switch. The best way to learn about the specifics of the washer that is being worked on is to read the manual that came with it. If one is not available, search the Internet, or call the manufacturer of the unit and order one because it will save a lot of trial and error, as well as money when replacing parts that may not be needed.