Although your washer is still managing to do its job, loud noises when on the spin cycle are an indication of a problem. Don’t worry, most of the time it is possible to trace back the problem and repair it at home. Never ignore the noise in the hope it will go away, it won’t and the issue will develop until the machine needs replacing.
If your washing machine makes noise when spinning it’s best to troubleshoot the problem right away. It could be that the washer isn’t level or has an imbalanced load, both have quick fixes, or the noise could be due to a problem with one of the parts.
Main Topics
Why Does My Washing Machine Make Loud Noise During Spin Cycle
There are a number of potential reasons a washing machine is making loud noises during the spin cycle. Below we’ve listed the 9 most common causes below:
1. Washing Machine Isn’t Level
If the washer isn’t level then it is going to be louder due to the vibrations and movement during the spin cycle.
Check the Machine’s Feet
Alter the height of the washer feet to make the machine stand level if the surface is slightly uneven. Check the level of the machine and adjust the feet as needed. An uneven machine makes other issues more likely to occur.
2. Problem With Bearings
The bearings help the washing machine tub to spin during the spin cycle. These small components can break and end up loose inside the washer which can cause loud grinding sounds as the machine spins. The bearings could also be squeaking due to a lack of lubricant.
Spin The Drum To Check Condition of Bearings
Replace worn bearings immediately otherwise the washing machine can end up badly damaged. You should be able to hear if the bearings are the problem by turning the drum manually and listening carefully. If the drum makes a rubbing sound or it doesn’t spin evenly then it’s likely the bearings are damaged.
3. Worn-Out Belt
The belt connects the motor to the pulley. A worn belt often makes a squeaking noise and needs replacing. The problem could also be with the spokes on the pulley so check the condition of this too.
Check Belt Condition
Open the panel of the washer and look at the belt. Visually inspect it for signs of wear and tear. If the belt is cracking, fraying, or burning it needs replacing.
4. Counterweight Has Moved
The counterweight stops the washing machine from moving around. It tends to be made out of concrete, plastic or cast iron. A loose counterweight will make a loud banging noise.
Check the Location of the Counterweight
It is unlikely a counterweight will break apart but they can come loose or the support bracket can become worn.
5. Lint Filter Has Picked Up Debris
If the lint has picked up a large piece of debris it may cause a clunking noise during the cycle.
Clean the Filter
Simply check and clean the filter making sure you remove any collected debris.
6. Motor Coupling Is Faulty
Faulty motor coupling will make a lot of noise. The coupling is the part that connects the transmission and the motor. As this part is usually made of plastic it can wear down and break.
Check the Motor Coupling
Unplug the washer and remove the panel to locate the motor. The motor coupling is at the back of the motor, examine it for damage or excessive wear. Replace the coupling if necessary.
7. Detached Shock Absorber
If there is a banging noise it could be because the shock absorber has come loose. The shock absorber’s job is keeping the machine stable.
Check the Shock Absorbers Position
Open the front panel of your washing machine and look for the shock absorber. It looks a bit like a wrench with attached springs and should be holding the metal chamber inside the machine. You may be able to reposition the shock absorber or if the washer is a few years old it is best to replace the parts.
8. Worn Agitator Dogs
These are plastic parts that help the agitation process during the spin cycle. They can become worn and if they do the machine will become noisier than usual.
Check the Agitators
The agitator dogs are in the agitator, they are small plastic clips that control the agitator’s movement. You can try to turn the agitator with your hand to check if the dogs need replacing. If the agitator turns freely both ways, it indicates worn agitator dogs that need replacing. If the agitator turns one way, the agitator dogs are still doing their job.
9. Something To Do With The Washing Load
A loose item in the laundry may be causing the noise. Or it could be due to an unbalanced load. If unbalanced, the machine will struggle to spin and will make a loud noise.
Listen Closely
If the issue is caused by the load rather than the machine then you will only hear the noise during that time. A machine is more likely to become unbalanced if there is one large item in the drum. It can also be unbalanced if one item has become particularly saturated with water and has become much heavier than the other clothes.
7 Tips To Fix A Washing Machine That Makes Noise When Spinning
Here’s a list of tips to help you fix a noisy washer:
1. Always Check Loads Before Putting Them On
Coins or other items that have accidentally ended up in the washer may be causing the noise. Check pockets and remove any loose items before putting the washer on. Try to only put balanced loads in too as this will help to prevent noise caused by unbalance.
2. Check the Seals and Lint Filter For Large Debris
Washing machines don’t do well with loose items so the sound could be an object in the lint filter or an object (such as a coin) in the seals of the door. Clean these areas and remove any objects. Regularly check and clean the lint filter to keep your washer running as it should.
3. Tighten the Machine Weights
While issues with the machine weights are rare, it is worth checking and tightening them just in case. Check the weights every 6 months or so to ensure they are not cracked or damaged. The bolts holding the weights in position can be tightened as needed.
4. Replace the Motor Coupling
If the issue is a damaged motor coupler then remove this from the motor and transmission shaft and replace it with a new motor coupler.
5. Replace the Agitator Dogs
The agitator dogs are a small but significant part of the machine. These plastic clips hold the agitator in position and need replacing if they are worn or broken.
6. Replace Shock Absorber
The shock absorber is easy to access from the front panel of the machine. If you’re not sure where the absorber is, use the instruction manual to help you locate it. If the shock absorber is out of place or loose then remove it and replace it with a new one.
7. Replace Drum Bearings
The drum bearings are a common cause of a noisy spin cycle. To replace them you will need to locate the bearings at the rear of the tub and remove them. Unfortunately, this requires stripping the washing machine down quite considerably. It is best to get a professional to do this if the issue is the bearings. Some machines now have sealed tanks where replacing the bearings is not possible so replacing the washer is necessary.
8. Fit A New Belt Into The Machine
The belt can be examined visually to determine if it is causing the problem. If the issue is the belt, call a professional to replace it immediately.
Related Questions
Washing machines are not the easiest to fix so we’ve answered some common questions to help:
Can you still use a washing machine if the bearings have gone?
No, it is not recommended. Although the washing machine will continue to work it will be dangerous to use and will cause damage to other components. It’s best to replace the bearings before using the machine again.
What causes bearings to go in washing machine?
Bearings usually go due to general wear and tear and rust. It is quite a common issue for washing machines, particularly after many years of regular use.
Why does my LG washing machine shake violently?
Violent shaking could be due to broken shock absorbers or an unbalanced washer.
To End
No matter what the appliance is, loud or unusual sounds are usually a bad sign. There are many reasons a washer is making loud noise during the spin cycle so it’s necessary to take a close look at the machine to identify the issue. Some problems, such as worn bearings, need repairing or replacing by a professional but many other problems can be easily solved at home.
A gap between a brick wall and the windows can allow outside air and moisture to get inside, resulting in damage and loss of heat or cooled air.
Thankfully, you can seal this gap on your own...
Tile Redi is one of the most popular brands of tile-ready shower pans. They’re advertised as a quick and easy solution for constructing or upgrading a shower. But do they live up to expectations,...
