Learn How Washing Machine Restart Works
Understanding the Washing Machine Restart Function
A washing machine restart feature is a built-in function that allows you to stop a cycle in progress and begin again from the start. This is different from simply pausing the machine. When you restart a washing machine, it drains any water that has accumulated, clears the current cycle from the machine's memory, and prepares the drum for a fresh cycle. Most modern washing machines manufactured after 2010 include some form of restart capability, though the method varies by brand and model.
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The restart function serves several practical purposes in household laundry management. You might need to restart if you forgot to add an item to the load before the cycle began, if you notice an error in your cycle selection, or if something goes wrong during the wash process. According to appliance repair data, approximately 15-20% of washing machine service calls involve users who are uncertain about basic operational features like restart functions.
Different washing machine types handle restarts differently. Top-loading machines typically have simpler restart mechanisms than front-loading machines because front-loaders have a locking door that engages during operation for safety. High-efficiency (HE) washers, which use significantly less water than standard models, may require different restart procedures. Understanding your specific machine type will help you use the restart function correctly.
The restart function is designed with safety in mind. Washing machines have pressure sensors and electronic controls that prevent door locks from releasing and prevent certain actions during active cycles. This safety design means that restarting isn't always instantaneous—the machine may need several minutes to drain water before you can open the door or restart the cycle.
Practical Takeaway: Before attempting to restart your washing machine, consult your owner's manual to locate the restart button or procedure specific to your model. The manual will explain your machine's safety features and the proper sequence for stopping and restarting a cycle.
How to Restart a Top-Loading Washing Machine
Top-loading washing machines generally offer the most straightforward restart procedures. The process begins by locating your machine's control panel, which is typically located on the top rim of the machine near the lid. Most top-loaders manufactured in the last 15 years have a dedicated restart or reset button, though some older models may require you to simply turn off the machine and select a new cycle.
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To restart a top-loading machine, first locate the power button or cycle selector. Press the power button to turn off the machine, or in some models, you may need to open the lid, which automatically stops the cycle. Many top-loaders do not lock the lid during operation, so you can open it mid-cycle without any safety restriction. Once you've stopped the machine, allow any water in the drum to drain naturally for 30 seconds to one minute. Some machines have a small drain plug at the base that you may need to open if water doesn't drain automatically.
After the water has drained, you can now remove or add items as needed. Once you've adjusted your load, close the lid and select your desired cycle from the control panel. Turn the machine back on and select your preferred settings—water temperature, cycle duration, and spin speed. Press the start button to begin the new cycle. The entire restart process for a top-loader typically takes 2-5 minutes from start to finish.
Some newer top-loaders have electronic displays with touch controls rather than mechanical buttons. These machines may have a dedicated restart button labeled "restart," "reset," or "stop/cancel." Pressing this button will halt the current cycle and allow you to begin a new one. The electronic display will usually show a message confirming that the cycle has been cancelled and the machine is ready for a new selection.
Practical Takeaway: For top-loaders without a dedicated restart button, turning off the machine using the power switch and opening the lid accomplishes the same result. Always wait for water to drain before opening the lid, even though most modern top-loaders don't lock the door during operation.
How to Restart a Front-Loading Washing Machine
Front-loading washing machines operate under different safety constraints than top-loaders, which affects how you restart them. Front-loaders have a motorized door lock that engages once the cycle begins. This lock prevents the door from opening while the drum is spinning or pressurized, which is a critical safety feature that protects users from injury and prevents water from spilling onto the floor.
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To restart a front-loading machine, first locate the cancel, stop, or restart button on the control panel. These buttons are typically located near the digital display and clearly labeled. Press this button once. The machine will begin a drain cycle, automatically pumping out any water from the drum. This drain process usually takes 1-3 minutes depending on how much water is in the machine and the machine's drain pump capacity.
While the machine is draining, you will see the door lock indicator light change—it may dim or turn off—signaling that the door lock is disengaging. Once the drain cycle is complete and the door lock indicator shows the lock is fully disengaged, you can open the door. Modern front-loaders include safety sensors that prevent the door from opening while there is still water in the drum or while the lock is still active.
After opening the door and adjusting your load, close the door firmly until you hear it latch. Return to the control panel and select your desired cycle. Front-loading machines typically offer cycles ranging from 30 minutes to over 2 hours, with options for water temperature, spin speed, and additional features like extra rinse or soil level adjustment. Once you've selected your settings, press the start button. The door will automatically lock again as the cycle begins.
Practical Takeaway: Never force a front-loader door open if it won't open after pressing stop or cancel. Wait several minutes for the drain cycle and lock disengagement to complete. Forcing the door can damage the lock mechanism and may require professional repairs costing $200-400.
Restart Features on Different Washing Machine Models
Major washing machine manufacturers have developed their own approaches to restart functionality, and understanding your brand's specific features helps you operate the machine correctly. Maytag, Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung represent about 65% of the washing machine market in North America, and each brand has distinct control systems.
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Whirlpool and Maytag machines, which often share components and designs, typically feature a "Cancel" button that initiates the restart sequence. Pressing this button once stops the cycle, and pressing it again will start draining the water. Some models have a "Drain and Spin" cycle that you can select after pressing cancel, which completes the water removal process before allowing you to open the door.
LG front-loading machines feature a "Start/Pause" button rather than a dedicated restart button. Pressing this button once pauses the cycle, and pressing it again resumes the cycle. To fully cancel and restart, you must hold the button for 3-5 seconds until you see a confirmation message on the display. LG also includes a child lock feature on many models that must be deactivated before you can open the door mid-cycle.
Samsung washing machines often include a "Power/Start" button and a separate "Delay Start" button on their control panels. To restart a Samsung machine, press the power button to turn off the machine entirely, which stops the current cycle. Samsung's electronic controls usually drain water automatically when the power is turned off. Their newer models with smart technology allow you to control restart functions through a mobile app in addition to manual controls on the machine.
High-efficiency models from all manufacturers may have different water removal procedures because they use significantly less water than standard machines. Where a conventional washer might hold 40 gallons of water, an HE model might use only 15-20 gallons. This means restart procedures may be faster on HE machines since there's less water to drain. Additionally, some HE machines feature a "water level" setting that lets you manually increase water amount if the automatic sensor doesn't provide enough water for heavily soiled loads.
Practical Takeaway: Check your machine's manual or search for your specific model number online to find the exact restart procedure for your brand. Manufacturer websites and YouTube videos showing your model in action can provide visual guidance that text instructions may not fully convey.
Common Restart Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many people experience frustration with washing machine restart functions simply because they attempt to perform actions before the machine is ready. The
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.