As a do-it-yourself expert you know that there is nothing more satisfying than a job well done. You also know that doing your own repairs can save you a lot of money. To repair a washer all you need is a screwdriver, some pliers, and some basic guidelines and you are well on your way to becoming a home washer repair expert.

The first step is to try to figure out where the problem is. If the washer doesn't run and you don't hear any sound coming from it, there are several things you must check. Make sure that the washer is plugged in, then check the breakers to see if maybe the circuit has overloaded. If none of those seem to be the problem, and the water is turned on, check to see if the water hose is connected and turned on. If the motor is not running at all, it may have to be replaced.

If the washer makes noise then at least the motor is getting sufficient power to it. This means that a different problem is occurring. Check to see if the washer is filling up with water, and that the water is filling up to the right level. If it is not filling properly, check to make sure the water supply is turned on all the way. It is also a good idea to check the pressure to make sure it is correct. Check the drain hose and make sure that it is seated properly at the top of the inside tub. It is a good idea at this point to check the drainage of the water hose. Make sure that it is in the correct position of 38 inches or level with the top of the washer. Be certain that it is not allowing the water to drain as it fills. The last thing to check is to make sure that the hose is not pulled too tautly near the main drain or the water will not drain properly. Make sure that the gap around the hose is not clogged, or the water will siphon out from it instead of going in.

If the issue is the water or the cycles, then the timer needs to be replaced. Write down the brand and model number before you buy the new timer to make sure it will work with your washer. Making certain that the washer is unplugged; remove the knobs and the control panel. Look for the wire that connects the timer to the washer and push them back if they are too long. As you disconnect each wire from the old timer, connect it in the same place on the new timer to make sure they are connected properly.

If after troubleshooting you find that the water level is the problem, you may need to replace the inlet valve. You can find the hoses at the back of the washer once you remove the back panel. Disconnect both hoses from the washer and from where they connect on the outside of the washer. Find the wires on the terminal and disconnect those as well. Remove the screws that hold the valves in place on the washer. You need to check the coil wire by tapping it lightly to see if it has come lose. If that doesn't work, replace it by installing a new one in the opposite procedure that you used to remove the old.

If your washer won't agitate, it is a simple job to repair or replace it. First make sure that it isn't cracked, as your clothes can get caught up in it. If it just has jagged pieces, you may be able to sand them smooth again. If that doesn't solve the problem, then just unscrew the cap, pull the old agitator off, slide a new one on, and secure it with a new cap.