How to Fix a Squeaky Washing Machine?

Why Washing Machines Squeak

The annoying squealing noise you hear every time you do your laundry could have several different causes. You can repair most of these problems without reaching out to technicians. There are times, however, when washing machine squeaking is a red flag, indicating that the appliance needs urgent repair.

If you are wondering ‘Why is my washing machine squeaking?’, here are some possible reasons:

Reason #1. The appliance is 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. Something is stuck in the tub

Sometimes, it’s not the washing machine making squeaking noise but the laundry itself. If a button or a bra strap got stuck in the tub, you can hear scratching or squealing noises during operation.

It could be hard to remove an object if it is stuck in the machine’s agitator. In this case, you will need to follow a user manual or contact a manufacturer to get 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 reason why your washer makes squealing noises may be that the bearings are getting old and not working efficiently. Consult a local technician about replacing the bearings and get a new set. If you hear squealing when spinning, check the condition of these parts as well:

• Tub
• Drive belt
• Snubber
• Pulley

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 valve screens are broken, replace them, and the washing machine will not squeak anymore. The valve screens could be dirty as well — 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 — it may be better to get a new washing machine altogether.

How to Fix Washing Machine Squeaking

Having determined the reason for a washing machine making a squeaking noise, let’s take a closer look at 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 is increased by years.

Take a look at these tips on how to fix squeaky washing machines:

Tip #1. Assess the performance of the pump

In a washing machine, the pump is used to push 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 run a spinning cycle again. This way, you will know for sure if the pump is causing the squeaks or not. If you are doing this on your own, be extremely cautious — it’s recommended to contact a technician to handle this step.

Step 2. Check the impeller for cracks and other problems or any other damage. Make sure it is not seized too.

Step 3. If the impeller is worn out, you will need to replace the motor. On the other hand, if the pump has cracks, you will have to replace it completely. 

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, worn-out, or there’s an error code, a homeowner might hear a loud banging sound whenever the washing machine spins.

How to fix a squeaky washing machine?

When shock absorber damage is detected, it should be fixed as soon as possible — if not, other components of the appliance will quickly get damaged.

Here’s how to fix the shock absorber:

• Unplug the washing machine and take off the front cover, or the rear panel of the washer.
• Check if the attachments between the shocks are intact so that no water can leak inside.
• If you detect cracks, loose attachments, or other shock absorber damage, you will need to get a new absorber right away. Do not use the machine until the problem is solved. 

Tip #3. Check pump and motor pulleys

Although a pulley is merely a support tool for the drive belt, grease can build up on the pulley over time. That, in return, leads to squeaky washing machine noises — here’s how you can deal with the issue:

• Unplug the washer from the outlet.
• Remove the washer’s cabinet, find the pulley, and disconnect it from the belt.
• Clean the pulley and the surrounding area to remove any build-up.
• If the pulley is damaged, find a replacement.

Call FIX Appliances CA — For Professional Help Getting Rid of Washing Machine Squeaks

To view moving parts, controls, and circuits, you have to remove panels or the whole washing machine cabinet. 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 for your washing machine troubleshooting and repair.

For high-quality washing machine assessment and low repair cost in Canada, reach out to FIX Appliances CA. Our team of factory-certified technicians has 15 years of experience repairing commercial and residential appliances.

Here’s why homeowners, restaurants, and business managers choose FIX Appliances CA to ensure a long life for their home and industrial appliances:

• Collaboration on your terms — technicians will adjust their schedules to match your timing.
• Free service call — you don’t pay a cent for calling professional repair help.
• Certified technicians — FIX Appliances CA service personnel are highly trained and skilled and are TSSA certified.
• Use only quality washing machine parts — we’ll help you choose the best components for your washer so that it will run smoothly for years.

For all your major household and commercial appliance repair services, call on FIX Appliances CA. To schedule a service consultation to assess the performance of your washer, call us or leave a message.