Washer makes strange sounds

A washer is supposed to wash your clothes, not upset your peace. If your machine has recently started making weird, loud sounds, it can be frustrating and upsetting. That creaking, grinding, or squealing noise isn’t only ruining your sanity, it is a sign that something is not working as intended.

Ignoring these sounds could lead to more demanding issues, which will end up taking you more time and money down the road. The good news is that most noisy washer problems are easily solved with a little troubleshooting.

Here at Just Call Appliance Repair, we specialize in fixing your washing machines in Charlotte, Concord, Matthews, Huntersville, and the surrounding areas. Your machine banging away during the spin cycle, squealing at a high pitch, or grinding away deep is not unusual. We can diagnose the issue and have it humming along in no time.

Let’s take a closer look at why washing machines make strange noises and how you can fix them.

Common Reasons Your Washer is Making Odd Noises

Different noises indicate different problems. Understanding what your washer is whining about can help you diagnose the issue and whether it’s something you can fix yourself or if the time has come to call in a professional.

1. Loud Banging or Thumping Sounds

This is one of the most common washer sounds, and it’s usually the result of an unbalanced load.

Possible causes:

• The clothes are not loaded equally in the drum
• Shock absorbers or suspension rods are broken
• Drum bearings are loose or broken

How to fix it:

• Stop the cycle and re-load the clothes equally in the drum
• If the washer is shaking too much, check if the shock absorbers or suspension rods are broken and replace them if necessary
• Spin the drum by hand, if not smooth or loose, replace the drum bearings

2. Squealing or Screeching at High Pitch

If your washer is making a high-pitched squeal, the problem may be with the drive belt or motor.

Possible causes:

• Slipping or worn-out drive belt
• Faulty motor pulley
• Dry or worn-out bearings

How to fix it:

Check the drive belt for wear and replace it if it is cracked or frayed

Lubricate the drum and motor bearings to reduce friction

If the motor pulley is worn or misaligned, it may need to be adjusted or replaced

3. Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Noise

A grinding sound from your washing machine is always bad news. It normally means that the washer has something within it that is damaged or old.

Possible causes:

• Old tub bearings
• A damaged motor coupling
• A foreign object stuck within the drum

How to repair:

• Check the drum for loose materials like coins, buttons, or bra wires
• Inspect the motor coupling and replace it if it is damaged
• If there is a grinding sound when you turn the drum by hand, the tub bearings may be worn out and need to be replaced

4. Clicking or Rattling Sounds

Whenever you notice a rattling or clicking sound during washing or spinning, the cause in most instances is anything loose but minute.

Possible causes:

• Loose objects inside the drum
• Loose screws, hoses, or other components
• A faulty drain pump

How to fix it:

• Check pockets before washing to prevent coins or keys from getting stuck
• Tighten loose screws or hoses inside the washer
• If the drain pump is making a clicking noise, inspect for obstructions or damage

How to Fix a Noisy Washer Before Calling a Technician

If your washing machine is making a lot of noise, there are a few things you can do before scheduling service.

1. Check for an Unbalanced Load

If your washer is clunking along noisily, break the cycle and rebalance the laundry. Washing one heavy item alone, like a blanket or an oversize towel, can throw the drum out of balance.

2. Hand Spin the Drum

Manually spin the drum when the washer is not running. If you feel uneven resistance or hear grinding, drum bearings can be worn out.

3. Look for Loose Pieces on the Washer

Look inside the drum, where the door seal is, and under the washer for loose objects. Tightening loose screws, checking hoses, and replacing loose parts can sometimes repair small rattling sounds.

4. Inspect the Drive Belt

A worn-out or slipping belt will cause squealing noises. If loose or frayed, a replacement will provide smooth operation.

5. Drain Pump Cleaning

A clogged drain pump will create clicking or rattling noises. Remove any lint, hair, or small objects that have built up.

When to Call a Professional for Washer Repair in Charlotte

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your washer is still making strange noises, it’s time to call in a professional. Some issues, like broken suspension rods, seized bearings, or motor failure, require specialized tools and expertise to fix.

At Just Call Appliance Repair, we provide fast and reliable washer repair in Charlotte and surrounding areas. Whether your washer is banging noisily, spinning incorrectly, or not working at all, we can diagnose the problem and get it operating properly again.

If your washer continues to make excessive noise after attempting to solve the problem yourself, don’t allow the problem to get out of hand. Call us now to schedule a repair.