Last updated on May 31st, 2022 at 02:42 pm
Few things are more frustrating than trying to get your subwoofer working properly. When it’s not, it can be hard to know what the problem is- let alone how to fix it. An issue is when the subwoofer only works when you push on it.
This can be caused by a number of different things, but fortunately, there are ways to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your subwoofer might only work when you push the cone in.
We’ll also provide some troubleshooting tips and solutions so you can get your subwoofer working properly again.
Why does the subwoofer only works when you push the cone in?
Let’s take a look at the causes of the Subwoofer only working when you push the cone in.
Break in the voice coil
One of the most common causes of this problem is a break in the voice coil. The voice coil is what allows the cone to move back and forth, and when it’s broken, the cone can get stuck in one position.
So, the cause might be the cone is acting as a switch. When you push the cone in, it completes the circuit and allows current to flow through the subwoofer. This causes the subwoofer to produce sound.
Solutions
To fix this, you’ll need to replace the voice coil. You can do it yourself, or you can take it to a professional. Sometimes, it’s possible to repair the coil. However, it’s quite hard.
Shorted out voice coil
Another cause can be a short in the voice coil. This can happen if the voice coil rubs against the magnet, or if there’s a break in the coil.
When the voice coil is shorted out, it can cause the subwoofer to produce a popping sound, or it might not work at all.
Solutions
To fix this issue, you have to replace the voice coil.
Loose connection
Another common cause of this problem is a loose connection. This can happen at the terminals, or anywhere else in the subwoofer’s wiring.
When a connection is loose, it can cause the subwoofer to work intermittently. So, you might find that it only works when you wiggle a certain wire or push on the cone in a certain way.
So, there might an issue with tinsel leads. The tinsel leads are responsible for carrying the current to the voice coil, and if they’re damaged or come off from the terminal, the subwoofer won’t work properly.
Solutions
To solve this issue, you’ll have to tighten or replace the loose connection. You may also need to replace the tinsel leads. This is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself, or you can take it to a professional.
A problem at the terminals
If the problem is at the terminal, it’s likely due to a loose connection. The terminal is where the positive and negative wires connect to the subwoofer, and if they’re not connected properly, the subwoofer won’t work.
Solutions
You’ll need to check the connections at the terminal and make sure they’re tight. If they’re not, you can use a pair of pliers to tighten them.
If the problem is with the terminals themselves, you’ll have to replace them.
A problem in the spider
The spider is a suspension that holds the voice coil in place. It’s made of a material that allows it to flex and move, and it’s what allows the cone to move back and forth.
It also helps keep the cone in place. If the spider is damaged, it can cause the cone to move improperly, which can cause the subwoofer to only work when you push the cone in.
Solutions
To solve this problem, you’ll have to replace the spider.
A break in the resistance
If there’s a break in the resistance, it means that the subwoofer is not getting enough power.
This can happen if the amplifier is not providing enough power or if there’s a problem with the subwoofer’s wiring or the voice coil may be damaged.
Solutions
You’ll require to check the amplifier and make sure it’s providing enough power. If it’s not, you’ll need to replace it.
You’ll also need to check the subwoofer’s wiring and make sure there are no breaks or loose connections.
A bent frame during installation
If the subwoofer was mounted on an uneven surface during installation, it’s possible that the frame is bent.
A bent frame may rub the cone against the speaker frame, causing it to distort and ultimately destroy the speaker.
If you install a subwoofer and the frame is bent, then it’s possible that the cone will not have enough clearance.
Solutions
You have to remove the subwoofer and mount it on a level surface or replace the diaphragm if needed.
A warped diaphragm due to moisture
When the speaker is used in a humid environment for a long time, the diaphragm will absorb moisture and swell.
As the diaphragm swells, it will warp and no longer fit snugly in the speaker frame.
This can cause the cone to rub against the speaker frame, which will distort the sound and eventually damage the speaker.
Solutions
To solve this, you’ll need to replace the diaphragm.
Thermal overload
Thermal overload is another common cause of this problem.
When a subwoofer or amp gets too hot, the voice coil former’s adhesive can break down.
As a result, the coil can begin to unwind and stick within the confines of the magnetic gap.
Moreover, An overheated subwoofer can cause the cone to get stuck in one position.
Solutions
First, allow the subwoofer to cool down. Once it’s cooled down, you can try pushing the cone back into place. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to replace the voice coil or subwoofer.
Also, check out my article about the cracked subwoofer cone.
Troubleshooting
If your subwoofer only works when you push the cone in, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.
Step 1. Check the connections
The first thing you’ll need to do is check the connections. Make sure the positive and negative wires are connected properly to the subwoofer.
Step 2. Check the amplifier
Next, you’ll have to check the amplifier and make sure it’s providing enough power.
Step 3. Check the subwoofer’s wiring
If the amplifier is providing enough power, you’ll need to check the subwoofer’s wiring. Make sure that tinsel wire isn’t loose, broken, or has not come off from the terminal.
Step 4. Check the spider
If the subwoofer is still not working, you’ll need to check the spider. If the spider is damaged, you’ll have to replace it.
Step 5. Measure the resistance and check the voice coil
If the spider is not damaged and all connections are fine, you will have to check the voice coil if it’s damaged or broken.
Besides, try to remember an event when you had a smell from your subwoofer, it’s like burning the adhesive or coating.
To check if the voice coil is good, so, you’ll need to check the resistance.
How to measure the resistance with a multimeter:
1. First, disconnect the negative wire from the subwoofer.
2. Next, touch the multimeter’s red lead to the positive terminal on the subwoofer.
3. Then, touch the multimeter’s black lead to the negative terminal on the subwoofer.
4. Finally, you’ll have to check the resistance.
If the resistance is between 0 and infinity, that means the voice coil is fine.
If the resistance is infinite, that means the voice coil is open and you’ll need to replace the subwoofer.
And, if the resistance is 0 ohms, that means the voice coil is shorted and you’ll have to replace the subwoofer.
How to fix this issue?
There are a few things you can try to fix the problem.
1. Tigheting any connections
In order to tighten subwoofer connections, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver. Begin by turning off the power to your subwoofer and disconnecting all of the wires.
Next, locate the screws on the back of the subwoofer that hold the cover in place.
Once you have found the screws, use the screwdriver to tighten them. If this does not fix the problem, you may need to replace the screws.
Know about RCA cables for the subwoofer.
2. Repairing a faulty amplifier
In order to repair a faulty amplifier, you will need a soldering iron and some solder. Begin by disconnecting the power to your amplifier and removing the cover.
Locate the faulty component on the circuit board and remove it. Once you have removed the component, solder a new one in its place.
If you do not have a soldering iron, you can purchase one at most hardware stores.
3. Fixing or replacing any bad wiring
In order to fix a broken subwoofer wire (e. g. copper braid wire), you’ll need to solder the wire back together.
But, first of all, you must first locate the breakage correctly.
The braid can then be repaired by soldering the broken parts back together. It is important to not overheat the speaker cone while soldering, as this may damage the cone.
If the break is too severe, or if soldering skills are not available, the speaker may need to be replaced.
4. Replacing the spider
A screwdriver and some wire are required to replace the spider. To begin, turn off the power to your subwoofer and remove the lid
Locate and remove the spider from the subwoofer inside. After you’ve removed the spider, connect the new spider to it with the wire.
5. Checking the voice coil and/or replacing the subwoofer
You need to check the voice coil by meaning the resistance as described above.
Then, if it’s damaged, you may need to get a new subwoofer.
However, sometimes it’s possible to repair the voice coil by soldering or using some slow-drying epoxy resin. Contact a professional for that.
Conclusion
If your subwoofer only works when you push the cone in, it’s most likely because of a break in the voice coil. However, there are a few other possible causes, such as a problem with the amplifier, wiring, spider, or frame.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the voice coil or subwoofer. You may also need to replace the amplifier, wiring, spider, or frame.
I am Pallab Kishore, owner of Sound Gears Realm. I like to try different sound gears and home theatre systems. I like to share with you my experience with these devices, especially subwoofers so that you can get help to solve any problem.