Quick answer
A washer with no lights at all has lost power: test the outlet with a lamp, reset the GFCI and the breaker, and check the plug. A washer that lights up but will not start is usually waiting for the door or lid lock, has its control or child lock on, or needs a reset by unplugging it for a minute. If it still will not start, the door lock, lid switch or control board has failed; HomeAdvisor puts typical washer repairs at $125–$450. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed October 27, 2026· Next review Apr 2027
A washer that shows no lights and makes no sound has lost power or has a failed control. A washer whose panel lights up but will not start a cycle is usually waiting for a door or lid lock, a child lock, or a reset. The difference tells you where to look.
Nothing At All: No Lights, No Sound
- 1Check the outlet. Plug a lamp into the same outlet. Laundry outlets near water are often GFCI outlets; press the reset button on it or on the nearest GFCI in the room.
- 2Check the breaker. Reset the laundry circuit fully off, then on.
- 3Check the plug. A plug pushed half out by the machine's vibration is common.
If the outlet works and the washer is still dead, the fault is inside: the power cord, the main control board or a blown fuse on the board. That is a technician's job.
Lights On, Will Not Start
- 1Close the lid or door firmly. Front-loaders will not start until the door lock engages; listen for the click.
- 2Turn off the control lock. Most washers have a child lock or control lock, shown by a padlock light. It is usually turned off by holding one button (often marked with the padlock) for three seconds.
- 3Press Start after choosing a cycle. Some models need Start pressed twice, or held.
- 4Reset the washer. Unplug it for one minute, plug it back in and try a rinse-and-spin.
- 5Check that both water taps are open. Some washers will not start a cycle if they detect no water.
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
What Usually Fails
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Completely dead, outlet works | Power cord, main control board, board fuse |
| Lights on, door lock never clicks | Door lock assembly, door strike |
| Lock clicks, then cycle cancels | Water inlet valve, pressure sensor, control board |
| Top-loader will not start with lid shut | Lid switch |
What a Repair Costs
HomeAdvisor puts typical washer repairs at $125–$450; a door lock or lid switch sits at the low end and a main control board at the high end. See the washer repair page for the table with sources.
When to Call
Call once the outlet, the breaker, the lock and a reset are ruled out. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my washer turn on at all?
Start with power: the outlet, a tripped GFCI, the breaker and the plug. If the outlet works and the washer is still dead, the cord, the control board or a fuse on it has failed.
Why does my washer light up but not start?
Usually the door or lid lock is not engaging, the control lock is on, or the control needs a reset. A failed door lock or lid switch is the common part.
How do I reset my washing machine?
Unplug it, or switch off its breaker, for about one minute, then plug it back in and start a short cycle.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.
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