Common Front-Load vs Top-Load Washer Issues and How to Prevent Them

Trying to decide between a front-load and a top-load washer—or already own one that’s acting up?

While both washer types are great at getting your laundry clean, they each come with their own quirks and potential repair issues.

Whether you’re team front-load or top-load, knowing the common washer problems can help you catch issues early, prevent costly breakdowns, and decide if it’s time to repair or replace.

Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and maintenance tips for front-load and top-load washers—so you can get the most of your machine.

5 Common Problems with Front-Load Washers

1. Mold & Mildew Buildup

One of the most common issues with front-load washers is mold and mildew forming around the door gasket (the rubber seal lining the door). Because front-loaders use less water and the door seals tightly, moisture gets trapped easily—especially if the door is kept shut between uses.

Causes:

• Infrequent cleaning
• Leaving the door closed after use
• Residual detergent or fabric softener build-up

Risks:

• Musty odors that transfer to clothes
• Health risks from mold exposure
• Damage to the gasket over time

2. Unpleasant Odors

Even if there’s no visible mold, front-load washers are notorious for developing moldy smells.

Causes:

• Detergent residue and softener buildup in the drum and dispenser
• Standing water trapped in the filter or drain hose
• Accumulated lint or debris

Risks:

• Smelly laundry
• Reduced washing performance
• Bacterial growth inside the washer

3. Drainage Issues

If your washer isn’t draining properly, it could stop mid-cycle, leave clothes soaking wet, or trigger error messages.

Causes:

• Clogged drain pump or filter
• Kinked or blocked drain hose
• Malfunctioning pump motor

Risks:

• Water damage from leaks or overflows
• Incomplete wash cycles
• Burnout of the motor if left unchecked

4. Door Lock Problems

Front-load washers lock automatically during cycles to prevent flooding—but sometimes they don’t unlock when they should, or fail to lock at all.

Causes:

• Faulty door latch or sensor
• Electrical issues in the control board
• Broken handle or latch mechanism

Risks:

• Inability to start or complete cycles
• Damage to internal components if forced open
• Risk of water leakage

5. Excessive Vibration or Noise

If your front-load washer sounds like a freight train or shifts during the spin cycle, it’s a sign something’s off.

Causes:

• Unbalanced loads or overloaded drum
• Worn-out shock absorbers or suspension springs
• Improper leveling of the machine

Risks:

• Damage to flooring or nearby furniture
• Loosening of internal parts
• Reduced lifespan of the machine

Common Problems with Top-Load Washers

1. Agitator Not Spinning

The agitator (the central post in traditional top-load washers) is key to moving your clothes around during the wash cycle. If it stops spinning or feels loose, that’s a red flag.

Causes:

• Faulty lid switch that prevents spinning for safety
• Broken or stretched drive belt
• Damaged agitator dogs (small components that help the agitator move)

Risks:

• Poor cleaning performance
• Longer cycle times
• Complete cycle failure if spinning stops altogether

2. Water Not Filling Properly

If your washer struggles to fill or fills too slowly, it could affect every part of the wash cycle—from detergent mixing to rinsing.

Causes:

• Clogged or dirty water inlet valves
• Kinked or frozen water hoses
• Faulty water level sensor or control board

Risks:

• Incomplete wash cycles
• Potential overheating of internal parts
• Risk of dry spinning, which can damage fabrics

3. Leaking Water

Water leaks are one of the most serious washer problems. If you see water pooling under or behind your machine, it’s time to act fast.

Causes:

• Loose or cracked inlet hoses
• Worn door or tub gaskets
• Faulty pump or tub seal
• Overfilling due to a sensor failure

Risks:

• Water damage to flooring or walls
• Mold or mildew growth under/around washer
• Electrical short circuits if water reaches wiring

4. Unusual Noises

All washers make some noise, but loud clunks, grinding, or squealing sounds are warning signs that something is wrong.

Causes:

• Worn drum bearings or motor parts
• Loose or unbalanced loads
• Foreign objects stuck in the drum or pump
• Broken suspension rods or dampers

Risks:

• Permanent damage to internal components
• Potential fire hazard from overheating parts
• Washer instability during high-speed spin cycles

5. Cycle Not Advancing

If your washer stalls mid-cycle, gets stuck in one mode, or doesn’t finish properly, it’s likely an issue with timing or controls.

Causes:

• Faulty timer or control board
• Broken lid switch (washer won’t spin or drain if it “thinks” the lid is open)
• Sensor malfunctions or wiring issues

Risks:

• Water left standing in the drum
• Incomplete or repeated wash cycles
• Electrical issues or complete failure to operate

Front-Load vs Top-Load: Which Washer Has More Problems?

Here’s how they stack up side-by-side:

How to Prevent Common Front-Load and Top-Load Washer Problems

Proactive care can save you hundreds in repairs. Here’s how to keep your washer running like new:

1. Leave the door or lid open after use – This prevents moisture buildup and mold.
2. Clean the drum and detergent drawer monthly – Use a washer cleaner or white vinegar.
3. Use the right amount and type of detergent – High-efficiency washers need HE detergent.
4. Check and clean inlet filters regularly – Especially if water pressure is low.
5. Avoid overloading – Too much laundry strains the motor and bearings.
6. Make sure your washer is level – Prevents vibration damage and noise.
7. Schedule seasonal maintenance – Bringer Appliance Repair can inspect, clean, and tune up your machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick the Right Washer, Fix the Right Way

Need help diagnosing or fixing one of these issues?

Whether your front-loader smells funky or your top-loader won’t spin, both machines come with their own set of issues—but they’re also repairable with the right help.

Bringer Appliance Repair is here to help you troubleshoot, maintain, or repair your washer—so you can get back to clean clothes without the stress.

Whether it’s a moldy seal or a stubborn door lock, we’ll restore your washer’s performance—fast.

Call us now to book your service today!