Why is My Washing Machine So Loud When Spinning?

Spinning is the noisiest part of a washing machine cycle, but if your washing machine is particularly loud, it could be a sign of a potential issue. There are a number of reasons why your washing machine is so loud when spinning, from the mundane to the serious. So, here we’ll explore those issues to help you reach a resolution.

Loud Thumping or Knocking Sounds:

If your washing machine is making loud thumping or knocking sounds, it is likely to be because the leveling legs are not even. When the leveling legs are not properly set up, your washer will be unbalanced, creating loud thumps when it spins.

Fortunately, this is quite an easy thing to fix. All you need to do is check to see that all four of the legs are touching the ground. You can then make any adjustments where needed. Once you have all four legs touching the ground, it is a good idea to run a test load to see if the loud noises have stopped.

Banging Noises:

If your washing machine makes banging noises during the spin cycle, it is probably due to an overloaded or unbalanced load. As the washer tries to spin the clothes, it can result in loud bangs. If you’ve ever tried to wash sneakers in your washing machine, you are likely to be familiar with this type of sound.

If your washing machine tends to make banging noises, you should reassess how much laundry you are putting in each load. For example, if you’re washing bedding, consider washing items one at a time to avoid overloading the machine.

Screeching Sounds:

If your washing machine makes screeching sounds when it runs a spin cycle, it could be due to a broken drive pulley. This pulley connects the washer tub and motor, and when it is broken or damaged, your appliance will be unable to correctly spin.

To correct this issue, you will need to replace the drive pulley, which will require attention from a professional repair technician.

Squealing Noises:

If your washer makes squealing noises when it spins, you may have a worn drive belt. The drive belt is needed to rotate the tub during a spin cycle. It means that the tub will not rotate correctly and you’ll hear loud noises. Again, this issue will require a replacement belt and a professional repair technician to correct the problem.

Grinding or Rumbling:

When a washer makes grinding or rumbling noises, it is typically due to faulty tub bearings. The tub bearing supports the washer tub and if they are faulty, the washer will not correctly rotate the tub during a spin cycle.

In this scenario, you will need to call in a repair technician to replace the tub bearing.

If your washing machine is making strange noises and it is still under warranty, it is important to avoid any DIY repair attempts. Most manufacturer warranties stipulate that any repair attempts unless completed by an authorized repair technician will invalidate the warranty. So, you should contact the manufacturer’s helpline as detailed in your owner’s manual.

It is also important not to attempt any repairs unless you are confident in your abilities. At the very least you may cause additional damage, but in a worst case scenario, you may be putting yourself at risk of accident or injury.

If you’re having issues with your washing machine and it is making loud noises during any part of the wash cycle, you can rely on the expertise of a professional appliance repair technician to provide a solution. An experienced technician will be able to troubleshoot the appliance and explain the repair options to you.