Why Is My Washing Machine Squeaking When Spinning
The annoying squealing noise you hear every time you do your laundry could have several different causes. Most of these problems can be repaired without contacting technicians. However, there are times when a washing machine’s squeaking is a red flag, indicating that the appliance needs urgent repair.
If you are wondering, “Why is my washing machine squeaking?” and here are some of the most common problems:
Reason #1. The Appliance Is a New
Newsflash: your washing machine can squeak even when nothing is wrong with it. It’s common for a brand-new drum to squeal for up to 5 laundry cycles. Over time, squeaks will disappear on their own, and your clothes will be cleaned quietly.
Reason #2. Obstruction in the Drum
Sometimes, it’s not the washing machine making a squeaking noise but the laundry itself. If a button or a bra strap gets stuck in the tub, you can hear scratching or squealing noises during operation.
Removing an object stuck in the machine’s agitator could be difficult. In this case, you must follow a user manual or contact a manufacturer for instructions on removing that part of the washing machine. Lifting the top part of the agitator provides a clear view of anything stuck at the base.
Reason #3. Worn-Out Washing Machine Parts
Another potential cause for the squealing noises from your washer could be worn-out bearings, resulting in inefficient operation. Seek advice from a local technician on replacing these bearings and acquire a fresh set. If you detect squealing during the spinning cycle, it’s essential to inspect the overall condition of these components as well:
- Washer Drum and Tub: The inner drum, where you load clothes, spins and has holes for water flow. The outer tub holds the inner drum and water, preventing leaks and providing support.
- Drive Belt: Drive belts rotate the drum or agitator, producing the necessary motion to agitate and clean your garments efficiently.
- Snubber Ring: This ring reduces the vibrations and movement caused by your washer during the washing or spinning cycles.
- Drum Pulley Wheel: A pulley is a wheel on an axle or shaft that enables a taut cable or belt passing over it to move and change direction or transfer power between itself and a shaft.
Reason #4. High Water Pressure
This type of squeaking noise typically manifests when filling the washing machine. In this case, nothing is wrong with the appliance itself — rather, with your laundry’s hot and cold water valves. Call a plumber to adjust the water pressure of both hot and cold water lines.
Be sure to check the water valve screens as well. To do that, turn the water supply off and unplug the washing machine. Remove both washing machine supply hoses and use a screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to remove the valve screens.
If the valve screens are broken, replace them, and the washing machine will stop squeaking. The valve screens could also be dirty—in that case, clean them with a toothbrush, hot water, and soap before reinstalling them.
Reason #5. U-Joint Kit Failure
If your washing machine squeaks during agitation, chances are, the U-joint kit is no longer functional. Theoretically, you can replace it with a new one. However, it’s a time-consuming and expensive procedure — getting a new washing machine altogether may be better.
How To Fix My Squeaking Washing Machine
Having determined why a washing machine makes a squeaking noise, let’s explore the most common ways to deal with the problem. After applying these tips, you can be confident that the appliance will function well and its lifespan will increase.
Take a look at these tips on how to fix squeaky washing machines:
Tip #1. Evaluate the Pump’s Performance
The pump in a washing machine pushes excess water from the tub during cleaning cycles. There are two types of pumps: motor-based and belt-driven. A worn pump is among the most popular reasons for hearing washing machine squeaks.
To make sure your washing machine pump is as good as new, troubleshoot possible issues by following these steps:
- Step 1. Unplug the squeaky washing machine, remove the pump, and re-run a spinning cycle. This way, you will know for sure if the pump is causing the squeaks or not. If attempting this independently, exercise utmost caution – it is advisable to enlist the services of a technician for this task.
- Step 2. Check the impeller for cracks, problems, or damage. Also, make sure it is not seized.
- Step 3. If the impeller exhibits signs of wear and tear, replacing the motor becomes imperative. Conversely, if the pump displays cracks, a complete replacement is unavoidable.
Tip #2. Check the Shock Absorber
Shock absorbers are used to make sure the tub moves smoothly as it spins. If this part of the washer is damaged or worn out, or there’s an error code, a homeowner might hear a loud banging sound whenever the washing machine spins. So, how do you fix this issue of a squeaky washing machine?
When shock absorber damage is detected, it should be fixed as soon as possible—if not, other appliance components will quickly become damaged.
Here’s how to fix the shock absorber:
- Step 1. Unplug the washing machine and remove the washer’s front cover or rear panel.
- Step 2. Examine the connections between the shock absorbers to ensure their integrity and prevent potential water leakage.
- Step 3. If you detect cracks, loose attachments, or other shock absorber damage, get a new absorber immediately. Do not operate the machine until the issue has been effectively addressed.
Tip #3. Check Pump and Motor Pulleys
While a pulley primarily serves as a support mechanism for the drive belt, the accumulation of grease on the pulley can result in bothersome squeaks emanating from the washing machine. Here’s how you can tackle this concern:
- Step 1. Disconnect the washer from the electrical outlet.
- Step 2. Remove the washer’s cabinet, find the pulley, and disconnect it from the belt.
- Step 3. Clean the pulley and the surrounding area to remove any build-up.
- Step 4. If the pulley is damaged, find a replacement.
Call for Professional Help to Get Rid Of Washing Machine Squeaks
You must remove panels or the whole washing machine cabinet to view moving parts, controls, and circuits. It’s risky to remove components of the washer, too. To make sure you don’t do your appliance more harm, hire professional service specialists to troubleshoot and repair your washing machine.
Please contact us for a high-quality washing machine assessment and low costs for any appliance repair in Toronto, the GTA, and the Simcoe County areas. Our team of factory-certified technicians has 18+ years of experience repairing commercial and residential appliances.
Here’s why homeowners, property managers, hotels, medical clinics, government institutions and other business owners choose Spark Service to ensure a long life for their home and commercial appliances:
- Reliable Service: Technicians will adjust their schedules to match your timing.
- Authorized Repair: LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Fisher and Paykel, and more than 25 manufacturers provide authorized service for warranty repair cases.
- Certified Technicians: Spark Service PRO, part of FIX Appliances CA Inc., has service personnel who are highly trained, skilled, and TSSA gas certified.
- OEM Replacement: “Original equipment manufacturer”—means using original parts for your washing machine. We’ll help you choose the best components for your washer so that it will run smoothly for many years.
Don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment today at 888-242-0777 for any appliance repair service Near Me.
Date of page creation: April 29, 2020
Page update date: October 01, 2024
What Our Customers Say About Us
FAQ: Top Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my new washing machine squeaking?
How can I determine if something is stuck in my washing machine causing the squeaking noise?
1. Consult your user manual for guidance.
2. Lift the top part of the agitator to check for any objects stuck at the base.
3. If you can't remove the object yourself, consider contacting the manufacturer for instructions or assistance