When the washing machine is running, the drum rotates very quickly. At the same time, during the spin cycle, the rotation speed increases many times. However, the design of modern washing machines is made in such a way that they work quite quietly, which makes them comfortable in everyday life.
If the noise level increases during the spinning of the laundry, this may indicate one or more problems. In addition, each individual breakdown is accompanied by characteristic features of the sound. It can be a tapping, grinding or crackling sound.
The most common reasons for excessively loud operation of the washing machine in the spin mode are uneven drum loading, traction problems, problems with the drain pump, failed bearings or shock absorber problems.
What causes a washing machine to make a loud noise during washing?
A washing machine cannot operate completely silently. Such technology does not yet exist. However, with the normal functioning of all internal systems, it should not make too loud sounds during the spin cycle.
The most common cause of such a malfunction is an unbalanced load. In addition, in top-loading machines, the problem of excessive noise may arise due to broken suspension rods. Shock absorbers often wear out in front-loading washing machines. Also, the equipment may make noise if the drain pump or bearings break.
Load imbalance
The machine makes a loud noise
When troubleshooting, it’s always a good idea to start by looking at the most easy-to-fix causes. This way you save time and money.
Following this advice, first of all, you need to make sure that the laundry is loaded correctly into the drum. It must be evenly distributed. Unbalanced loading most often causes excessive noise.
So, the imbalance causes the placement of large items in the drum, or, conversely, too little laundry. In this case, the incorrectly distributed weight starts to rock the drum, which hits the inner frame with a thud. At the same time, the noise becomes more distinct precisely during drying, when the drum develops maximum rotation speed.
A similar problem is solved quite simply and quickly. It is enough to lay out the laundry correctly with each load. If there is very little laundry and it has little weight, then it is advisable to add a couple of extra towels to the wash. When loading bulky items such as bedding, bedspreads, jackets, set the appropriate mode. Usually, the settings of special programs suggest a slower rotation of the drum during the spin cycle. This is done specifically to minimize the load on the equipment and prevent noise.
Suspension rods or shock absorbers malfunction
The machine makes a loud noise
Washing machine drums have support mechanisms that hold it, but do not interfere with rotation. The type of support varies depending on the type of washing machine. For example, hanging rods are used to support the drums in top-loading washing machines. In front-loading vehicles, shock absorbers perform this function. It is these elements that ensure the rotation of the drum without much noise.
If the washing machine makes a very loud noise during the spin cycle, then the suspension rods and shock absorbers may have become unusable. Because of this, the drum can no longer rotate in a balanced way. During operation, he begins to touch the inner frame. The constant loud knocking is not only annoying, it also signals the presence of malfunctions that can only get worse over time. Therefore, it is important to start correcting the problem in a timely manner.
Worn and damaged shock absorbers and suspensions cannot be repaired. These parts must be replaced with new ones.
Important! It is necessary to change all shock absorbers and suspension rods at the same time, even if only one seems to be faulty.
The fact is that if one element fails, the additional load on the rest quickly disables them. In addition, in this way, you will save time and energy. You will not have to disassemble the machine again soon and change worn parts. In addition, usually shock absorbers and rods are sold immediately as a set.
To replace the elements, you need to dismantle the back cover of the washing machine. Right behind it you will see supports. Remove worn parts and replace them with new ones.
Drain pump failure
The machine makes a creaking sound
The drain pump is an important element in the system. A drain pump is needed to pump water from the washing machine through the drain hose into the sewer. The pump is activated several times during a complete wash cycle. In this case, the last time it starts during the spin cycle. It is at this stage that the drum rotates at maximum speed to remove more water from the tissues.
A slight creak during the spin cycle may be normal. However, a sound that is too loud indicates a malfunction of the drain pump. It consists of moving parts that rotate during operation and thereby pump water out of the drum. A creaking sound indicates that some moving part, during rotation, touches another part or body.
A broken drain pump cannot be repaired, it must be replaced with a new mechanism.
Drum bearings failed
The machine makes a grinding or noisy engine
The washing machine is equipped with bearings. They provide smooth and quiet rotation of the drum, including during the spin cycle. The bearings are located in the rear segment of the drum. This part consists of a metal case, inside of which there are rollers or balls. Bearings are in any washing machine, regardless of the type of load and model.
Due to the constant load, bearings wear out over time. As a result, they can no longer rotate smoothly. Damaged parts begin to grind. Owners may hear engine-like sounds.
The process for replacing a defective part will depend on the model of the washing machine. In some cases, it will be enough to notice only worn bearings. In other models, the bearings are built into the external bath, so you have to change it entirely. In the second option, you will have to spend much more money on repairs.
Common questions from washing machine owners
Below are answers to frequently asked questions related to the appearance of noise in the washing machine. A loud sound not only causes discomfort, it can indicate breakdowns.
Even minor breakdowns should not be delayed with the repair, because over time they can lead to more serious malfunctions, the elimination of which will have to spend a large amount of money.
How to understand that the bearings in the washing machine are out of order?
The first sign of bearing failure is a characteristic grinding sound during the spin cycle. In this case, the noise will increase as the speed of rotation of the drum increases. As the drum slows down, the intensity of the grinding will decrease. All these signals indicate that it is time to change the bearings.
Can I continue to use the washing machine if the bearings are broken?
Yes, the machine will still work. At the same time, she will make a lot of noise. However, it is not recommended to operate faulty equipment. As a result of worn bearings, the drum will not be able to rotate smoothly, as a result of which the engine will work with additional load. Thus, the life of household appliances will be reduced. Therefore, you should not save on repairs, because in the future it will lead to even more expenses.
Can bearings be repaired?
Yes, this item can be repaired. It is advisable to carry out repairs if the washing machine was bought recently or has served only a couple of years. If the washing machine has been working for a decade, then you should think about buying new equipment. Its useful life is gradually ending. After all, there is a high probability that soon some other part will fail. It will probably be cheaper to buy a new machine than to constantly spend money on repairing an already worn out and outdated model.
How much will it cost to replace bearings in a washing machine?
Replacing worn bearings will cost about two hundred dollars. The exact repair cost will depend on the make and model of your washing machine. In addition, you will have to pay the master who will repair. After all, not everyone has the opportunity and appropriate skills to carry out repairs on their own.