The past few times we have tried to use the washing machine, it has given off a burning smell and has even begun to smoke a bit. Also, it doesn't appear to be draining fully in the spin cycle, so the clothes are left very saturated with water. I'm not really sure why this is happening, I don't see anything trapped in the machine that could be causing the problem, but my knowledge of this stuff is pretty limited. Any ideas what might be causing this?
Edit: It's a Kenmore washer and dryer from Sears (Model number – 417.90812990). It seems like the washer has been unable to drain water properly, it doesn't really matter what size load you place in there, the rinse cycle doesn't seem to work and the dyer was smoking. It definitely smells electrical.
Edit2: Alternatively, if I fail to address this by myself, who should I call ideally? The warranty is out on it. Last time I called Sears for a stove with a broken part they quoted a high price for parts combined with an offer to buy a new stove at a discount. Should I expect the same again if I deal with them? Should I call someone else?
Edit3: I checked it and it turned out that between minute 6 and the rinse cycle the washer stopped spinning. Instead there was only buzz and then the plastic lid lock started smoking. Here's that part:
http://www.apwapplianceparts.com/Store_Part.aspx?Id=673890
Part number is 131675600. They sell them on ebay for $10.
Here's something interesting I found about that part:
Could it be that it's just shorting and all I have to do is replace it? Or is this a symptom of a bigger problem?
Edit4: I called a specialist and he advised me to just eliminate the lid lock. That fixed it.
Best Answer
One of two problems, burned out drive belt or burned out motor. This could be fixed by a DIYer, but need to know what level of mechanical ability you have. Take off the front panel and take a look as you run it through a short cycle and be prepared to shut it off or pull the plug if you see sparks or smoke from the motor.