Washing Machine Making Loud Noise
If your washing machine is making a loud noise, the type of sound it is making is the most useful clue to identifying the cause. Banging, rumbling, grinding and squealing noises all point to different faults — some of which can be resolved at home.
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Why Is My Washing Machine Making a Loud Noise?
The type and timing of the noise is the best guide to what is causing it. A banging noise during the spin cycle points to a different fault than a grinding noise during the wash cycle. Use the guide below to identify your noise type and likely cause.
Common Causes
Banging or thumping during spin — unbalanced load
The most common cause of banging during spin is an unbalanced load. If laundry has bunched to one side of the drum, the machine vibrates heavily and may bang against the sides of the cabinet or surrounding units. Redistribute the load and try again.
Banging or clanking — foreign object in the drum
Coins, hair grips, bra underwires and other small metal objects can fall out of pockets or laundry and rattle or bang against the drum during the cycle. Check the drum and the pump filter for foreign objects.
Loud rumbling during spin — worn drum bearings
A deep rumbling or roaring noise during the spin cycle that gets louder over time is a strong indicator of worn drum bearings. This fault will worsen and will eventually lead to the drum becoming loose. Bearings need to be replaced by a qualified engineer.
Grinding or scraping — object trapped between drum and seal
A grinding or scraping noise can be caused by a small object such as a coin or button becoming trapped between the drum and the door seal. Check around the seal carefully.
Squealing or squeaking — worn motor brushes or belt
A high-pitched squealing noise can indicate worn carbon brushes on the motor or a worn drive belt. Both will need to be replaced by an engineer.
Rattling during fill or drain — pump filter or loose component
A rattling noise when the machine is filling or draining can be caused by a partially blocked pump filter or a loose component inside the machine.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Redistribute the load
If the noise occurs during spin, open the door, rearrange the laundry evenly around the drum and try the spin again.
Check for foreign objects
Check all pockets before loading laundry. Inspect the drum interior and the door seal for any trapped objects. Clean the pump filter and check for coins or debris inside it.
Check the machine is level
Ensure all four feet are in firm contact with the floor. Adjust the feet if necessary and use anti-vibration feet or a mat under the machine if it is on a hard floor.
Check transit bolts have been removed
On a newly installed machine, ensure all transit bolts have been removed from the back of the machine. These are fitted to protect the drum during transport and must be removed before use.
When To Contact A Professional
If the noise persists after the above checks — particularly if it is a rumbling or roaring noise during spin — the drum bearings are likely worn and will need to be replaced by a qualified engineer. A worn bearing left unrepaired will eventually cause the drum shaft to fail entirely. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Washing Machine Fault Guides
Washing Machine Vibrating Excessively
Washing Machine Stopping Mid-Cycle
Related Guides
Washing machine error codes — all brands
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