How to Fix a Noisy Washing Machine

 When your washing machine starts making noise while in use, it can only mean it has developed a fault. Washing machines don’t come cheap, so it’s advisable to find and fix faults in time.

There are so many parts and functions of washing machines that can at any given time stop cause issues. The fault could be as a result of the wearing out or loosing of different parts of the washing machine. In this article, we will take you through the various steps you should take when your washing machine becomes noisy.

 You can easily identify the fault in your washer by listening to the type of noise it makes. The different parts of the machine make quite unique sounds when they go bad.

 So, we’ve decided to classify the various possible faults in a noisy washer by the sound they make.

Grinding Noise

When your washer starts making a grinding noise, the possible problems include:

Faulty Tub Bearing

the bearing in your washer’s main tub was designed to make it spin freely without hindrance. The bearing is a circular metal-containing little ball. These balls are arranged in a particular manner and move when your washer starts spinning. When the bearing breaks or becomes worn out, these balls fall out of place and start making a grinding sound.

 Another problem arises when your bearing runs out of lubrication. This time, it starts making a squeaky noise. This is a slight problem, though, and it can be fixed by applying mechanical grease to the bearing.

 If you have a front load washer, an easy way to know if it’s bearing needs changing is to try turning the drum inside by hand. If it sounds uneven or makes rubbing sounds, then your bearing definitely needs replacing. This replacement should be done quickly to avoid serious damage.

Faulty Agitator Directional Cogs

These components control the upper part of dual-action agitators. They engage the internal surface of the agitator as it moves in one direction and releases it when it starts moving in the opposite direction. This mechanism restricts the movement of the upper part of the agitator to one direction while the bottom part moves in both directions. 

 These cogs are made of plastic and become worn out with respect to time and usage. When this happens, they lose the ability to engage the inner surface of the agitator. Hence, the grinding noise. Also, worn out cogs will lead to unstable movements in the upper part of the agitator. You should remove the top of the agitator to inspect the plastic to be certain of damage.

Vibrating Noise

 A vibrating noise in your washer is no good news; the possible problems include:

Faulty Drive Motor

in a front load washer, the drive motor controls the pump, transmission, and the spin basket. The basket pulley is powered by this motor. A thermal overload occurs when the motor becomes faulty, causing vibration, and sometimes a burning smell. 

 The motor will need a total replacement if it stops working. A bad capacitor or a mechanical problem is to be suspected if the motor continues working but with recurring issues.

Drive Motor Coupling

when your washing machine makes a vibrating noise, it could also be a result of the motor coupling. It is responsible for the transmission of power. This component is made up of two drive forks and a coupling rubber. The drive forks are made of plastic. The coupling rubber is there to absorb the torque in the system.

This is to avoid the breaking of any of the components during use. Due to the nature of the material, the coupling rubber will worn out with time, causing the drive forks to make vibrating noise. It can be easily fixed.

Banging Noise

 You shouldn’t ignore a banging noise coming from your washing machine. It’s a clear sign that there’s a problem.

A Bad Shock Absorber

the component is tasked with holding the tub during the spin cycle, keeping it’s movement centered. This wrench-shaped component is equipped with springs that connect the frame to the outer part of the tub. 

 The wearing out of the shock absorber creates a banging noise during use. Shock absorbers are found in front loaders. 

Worn Out Suspension Springs

suspension springs or dampening straps are common in top load washers. They are responsible for holding the tub in the center. With time, the springs/straps become loose or fall off, causing the tub to make banging sounds against the washer’s frame. The problem can easily be solved by replacing the worn-out part.

 Safety should always come first. Here are a few safety steps for you.

Always ensure the machine is unplugged, undergoing any form of inspection or repair.

Ensure you have the right tools.

Use the right protective equipment always.

Don’t try to lift the machine alone.

Call a repairman when you’ve more than you can handle.