A Whirlpool washer in North Canton wouldn’t start, leaving the homeowner concerned about both the no-start condition and possible water damage from what appeared to be a leak. Our diagnosis revealed a failed motor start capacitor — a common failure point on this WTW4850XQ1 model — while the water on the floor came from an unrelated sump pump backup.
The Problem
The customer reported that their washer wouldn’t start at all — pressing the start button produced no response, and the cycle wouldn’t initiate. They also noticed water on the laundry room floor and were concerned the washer had leaked during its last use before failing.
Diagnosis
Testing revealed the motor start capacitor was completely out of specification on our meter. The lid switch tested good, motor windings showed proper continuity, and all other electrical components checked normal. The water on the floor traced back to a recent sump pump backup during heavy rain — not a washer leak. Without a functioning start capacitor, the motor couldn’t overcome initial resistance to begin spinning.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: W10804665 — motor start capacitor
- Work performed: Removed old capacitor, installed new unit, reconnected motor leads
- Result: Washer starts immediately, runs through full cycles, no leaks detected
Is It Worth Repairing?
This WTW4850XQ1 is a solid mid-range Whirlpool that typically runs 12-15 years with basic maintenance. A capacitor replacement on a unit this age is definitely worthwhile — it’s a wear part that fails predictably, and the rest of the washer’s components were in good condition during our inspection.
Maintenance Tips for Whirlpool Washers
- Check that the washer stays level — this WTW series is sensitive to vibration that can stress electrical connections
- Clean the fabric softener dispenser monthly to prevent buildup that can affect cycle timing
- Run a cleaning cycle with washer cleaner every 30 loads to prevent residue buildup in the tub and pump
Appliance Repair in North Canton, OH
North Canton is in Stark County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Alliance, Louisville, and Hartville. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Stark County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Stark County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.