Many homeowners have dealt with that eerie sound — the one that makes it seem like there’s a monster inside your washing machine, ready to pounce. Sometimes, it feels like it would be easier if it were just a creature you could let out, but unfortunately, the noises point to a more complex issue.
Washing machines go through a complex process of filling, agitating, draining, and spinning to get your clothes clean. So when something goes awry, those loud noises are symptoms of a problem that’s a bit bigger than it’s letting on. Here are some reasons for the loud noise and what you can do to quell it.
What Causes the Loud Noises Coming From Your Washing Machine?
When your washing machine starts making loud noises, your first thought is simple — you want it to stop. Those banging, clanking, or scraping noises are as frustrating as they are worrisome. You probably don’t want to hear that many different things can cause these sounds, but knowing the root of the problem is the first step toward quieting your noisy washing machine. Let’s walk through some of the most common culprits.
Caught Debris
One of the simplest causes of a noisy washing machine is debris getting trapped. Sometimes, small items like coins, hairpins, or even buttons find their way into the washing machine’s inner drum, where they rattle around during the washing machine cycle. The sound can mimic scraping or clattering, and it tends to increase in intensity as the machine spins. A thorough check for debris inside the washing machine’s drum or pump filter can often reveal the culprit and restore peace to your laundry room.
Worn Tub Bearings
The tub bearings help the washing machine drum spin smoothly, but over time, they can wear out. When this happens, you might hear a grinding or rumbling noise, especially during the spin cycle. The loose drum bearings can create significant friction, leading to noisy washing machines and a ton of annoyance for you. Ignoring this issue can eventually lead to further damage, so it’s important to address worn bearings as soon as possible.
Drain Pump Problems
The drain pump plays a vital role in expelling water from the washing machine during a cycle. If the pump is blocked or malfunctioning, it can produce a loud washer noise — usually a rattling or buzzing sound. The pump might be jammed with small items, or it could be faulty altogether. In either case, the result is a noisy washing machine that struggles to complete its job efficiently.
Unbalanced Load
An unbalanced load is another common cause for any washing machine making a loud noise. If your machine is overloaded or the clothes aren’t distributed evenly inside the drum, it can lead to a significant amount of banging during the spin cycle. The washing machine drum works hard to correct the imbalance, but when it can’t, the result is a washer that sounds like it’s about to take off. Properly loading the machine can often solve this issue and make for a much quieter wash.
Faulty Pump
A faulty pump can be tricky because it may not always show signs of immediate failure. Over time, however, you may hear the scraping noise or grinding sound from the pump as it struggles to work correctly. This issue could be a sign that the pump is on its last legs and needs repair or replacement before it completely gives out.
Troubleshooting Options for Your Loud Washing Machine
The good news is, there’s hope for your washing machine making noise that rattles all across your home. Whether you’re dealing with worn tub bearings, a faulty pump, or debris caught in the drum, there are steps you can take to tackle the issue and bring your washing machine back to its peaceful state. Your options include:
- Redistributing the load inside the drum for a balanced wash.
- Inspecting the drum for any caught debris like coins or small objects.
- Checking the tub bearings for wear and tear.
- Examining the drain pump for blockages or malfunction.
- Replacing a faulty pump if necessary.
Appliance Doctors Can Isolate and Solve Your Washing Machine Problems!
We’ve got your back with the washer service you deserve. When you need washing machine repair or are ready for a new washer installation, Appliance Doctors is here to help you take the worry out of your laundry routine. We can restore peace to your noisy washing machine — or install a new washing machine that’s just as quiet as you need it to be. Call us today if you can’t stop asking, “Why is my washing machine noisy?!”
