Washer is making a loud noise

Washer Making Loud Noise? Here’s How to Solve It

Has your washing machine been keeping you up at night? With its loud banging, it’s hard to ignore when you just want a peaceful home or a good night’s sleep.  If your washer is making a loud noise, it’s a clear sign that there’s a problem that you have to dig deeper to fix. It’s time to say goodbye to the loud noises that make your home less than sweet.

From something as small as overloading to something deeper like damaged shock absorbers we can help you figure it out on your own when the problem gets out of hand. But when things get a little more tough, there’s no shame in calling for backup.

We offer professional washer repair near you in Charlotte including areas like Huntersville, Concord, Gastonia, Uptown, and more. Let’s take it step by step and figure out the issue before your washer is too damaged to fix.

Why Is My Washer Loud?

There are many possible reasons why your washer is making a loud noise, from simple fixes you can do in minutes to more serious mechanical issues. Below, we’ve outlined the most common causes of a noisy washer and how to address each one on your own before calling us.

Uneven Load

It’s an issue that most people usually overlook. If your clothes aren’t evenly distributed within your washer, the drum can shake and bang during the spin cycle – making for a noisy washing machine.

Signs of an uneven load

  • The washer vibrates or jumps around during the cycle.
  • The drum spins unevenly or makes thumping noises.
  • The spin cycle starts and then suddenly stops.

Balancing out your washer load:

  • Open the lid and redistribute the laundry so heavier items are spread out. Make sure the laundry all meets at the same level.
  • Avoid washing just one bulky item alone. Add a few towels or smaller clothes on the sides that need it to balance your drum out.
  • Try a shorter spin cycle first if you’re washing heavy items.

Washing Machine Isn’t Level

Even a slightly uneven floor can cause your washer to wobble and make noise. Over time, the feet on your washer may also shift or loosen. This results in your washer is making a loud noise.

Signs your washing machine isn’t level

  • The washer shakes or tilts during the spin cycle.
  • One side of the machine lifts slightly more than the other off the flat ground,
  • Constant rattling or stomping noise throughout the washing cycle.

How to fix an unlevel washing machine:

  • Use a level to check if the washing machine is sitting flat.
  • Adjust the leveling feet at the bottom until the machine isn’t wobbly.
  • Make sure the washer is not resting on the carpeting. This can create an uneven surface. Use a sturdy, flat surface for your washing machine.

Damaged Drum Bearings

If you’ve checked the external issues of a loud washing machine, it’s time to check the internal functions. Drum bearings are responsible for supporting your drum as your clothes spin. They give your cycles that smooth and efficient spin. If they wear out or get damaged, you’ll hear grinding, squealing, or rumbling noises, especially during the spin cycle.

Signs of damaged washer drum bearing

  • Loud grinding or rumbling noise when the drum spins.
  • The drum feels rough or stiff when you turn it by hand.
  • Noises get worse over time.

Repairing your drum bearings

You’ll likely need to replace the bearings, which usually involve removing the drum. This is a more advanced repair, so consider calling us unless you’re comfortable with appliance repairs.

man repairing a washer making loud noises

Worn Drive Belt

The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. It allows the drum to spin when it’s running a cycle. If it’s stretched, cracked, or broken, the motor might still run but won’t be able to spin the drum properly and you might hear squeaking or slapping noises from your loud washer.

Signs of a damaged washer drive belt

  • Squeaky or slapping sound during the spin cycle.
  • The drum doesn’t spin even though the motor is running.
  • It takes a longer time for the washer to complete its usual cycle or it stops spinning altogether.

How to fix a worn drive belt:

  1. Unplug the washer and then remove the back panel using the proper tools.
  2. Check the belt’s tension and condition. If you notice damage, tears, or stretching, that’s a sign of replacement.
  3. Replace the belt if it’s worn or broken, use the model-specific replacement part.
  4. If you’re not confident or unsure of how to approach this, it’s best to call us rather than risk damaging your machine further.

Clogged or Damaged Drain Pump

If water isn’t draining properly, the washer can’t move into the spin cycle smoothly. This can lead to gurgling, buzzing, or knocking noises, keeping your washing machine loud.

Signs of a blocked or broken drain pump

  • A washer that’s not draining during the cycle. You may also hear a buzzing or humming noise that indicates your washer is struggling to drain the water.
  • Excess water stays in the drum after the cycle ends.
  • The washer pauses mid-cycle and won’t continue past the washing phase.

Solution for a clogged or damaged drain pump:

  1. Locate the drain filter (usually at the front bottom) and carefully open it. Place a bucket or small tub before unscrewing the plug to make sure that nothing spills out.
  2. Check the drain hose for damage or blockage. Take out anything that you think may be stuck in there safely.
  3. If the pump is still noisy and not working, it needs to be replaced.

Damaged Shock Absorbers

Front-load washers rely on shock absorbers to keep the drum stable during the spin cycle. If these wear out or break, the whole machine can shake violently – making a lot of noise as a result.

Signs of damaged shock absorbers

  • The washer vibrates or rocks hard, even with small loads.
  • The drum feels loose or unstable when pushed by hand.
  • Loud banging or clunking during the spin cycle.

How to fix it:

  1. Checking your shock absorbers may require you to remove the front or back panel to see the shock absorbers. Before doing anything, unplug the machine from power.
  2. Inspect the shocks for leaks, dents, or damage.
  3. Replace any faulty shock absorbers safely. Make sure the new ones you are using are compatible with your current washer’s model.
  4. Adding anti-vibration pads under the washer can also help reduce movement and noise.

Fixing a Washer Making Loud Noises Before You Call a Technician

While most situations call for a certified technician, you can check and follow these steps on your own before calling an expert to fix your loud washing machine.

  • Balanced load – Redistribute clothes evenly and do not wash a heavy item alone.
  • Move washer to level flooring – Adjust the feet or move the washer to a flat, sturdy surface to prevent vibration and noise.
  • Check the drum bearings – If the drum spins with a grinding or rumbling noise, the bearings may be worn and need replacement.
  • Inspect the drive belt – Look for looseness, cracks, or breaks in the belt. Replace it if damaged.
  • Examine the drain pump – Clean out the drain filter and check for clogs or damage that may be preventing proper drainage.
  • Check the shock absorbers – If the washer shakes violently during the spin cycle, worn shocks may need replacing.

When to Call a Professional Repair Service For a Loud Washer

If you’ve tried everything and still, your washer is making a loud noise, it might be a sign that there could be a more complex or serious problem with your washer’s internal wiring or motor. We have experienced technicians who are trained to easily find and repair the problem.

Just Call Appliance Repair offers washer repair services all around Charlotte, NC. If your washer is giving you nightmares throughout the day and night from its loud noises, don’t fret. We’ll bring your loud washer back to normal.

Schedule a repair with us now and turn your home back into the peaceful place you know and love.

Frequently Asked Questions About Loud Washing Machines

How can I make my washing machine quieter?

Even out the clothing load, make sure your machine is on level flooring, and check drum bearings, drive belt, drain pump, and shock absorbers for any damage or replacing. A technician can easily check these functions for you if you’re not confident.

Is it safe to use a loud washing machine?

It’s usually safe to a certain extent. If it’s light noise like humming, then it’s most likely safe to use. However, if you experience banging, clanking, shaking, or grinding, it could signal a serious issue that might damage your washing machine further and risk safety overtime.

Is it worth replacing a loud washing machine?

If your machine is under 10 years old, it may be more cost-effective to repair your loud washing machine as issues may be minimal when caught early on.