📖 Glossary, Part
What is an agitator?
The central post that moves laundry through the water. Newer machines often use a low profile impeller plate instead.
A traditional top loader has a tall finned agitator that twists back and forth to drag clothes through the water. High efficiency machines increasingly use a low profile impeller or wash plate instead, which is gentler and allows bulkier loads but needs different cycle settings to clean as well. Some machines now offer a removable agitator so owners can choose. Agitator dogs, small plastic ratchet inserts, wear out and cause the agitator to turn one way but not drive the load.
Where you’ll meet it
Repairs that involve agitator
Related terms
DON’T WANT TO DIY IT?
Find a washer repair pro near you.
Browse independent appliance repair companies by city, ratings, hours, and phone numbers, no middleman.