Is your washer loud during spin cycle? If so, this may be an easier fix than you think. In this article, we will take a look at a few common reasons for the loud banging or grinding noises during your washer’s spin cycle. With a little know-how, we can avoid a call to the repairman and get things done without having to wait for an appointment. Just make sure you unplug the washer before opening panels and attempting repairs.
Washer Loud During Spin Cycle Causes
Exceeding Washing Machine Capacity
Overloading a washing machine can cause it to make loud noises and potentially get damaged over time. When a washing machine is overloaded, it can put strain on the motor and cause the drum to become unbalanced during the spin cycle, resulting in excessive vibration and noise.
Additionally, overloading can lead to damage to the drum and other components of the machine, ultimately shortening its lifespan. To prevent this, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load size and distribute the laundry evenly in the drum.
Worn Motor Couplings
A frequent cause of a noisy spin cycle is that the motor coupling, which connects the motor to the transmission, is worn out. These parts are used in some top-load washers. The coupling can wear down over time, eventually enabling the drive forks (one fork is connected to the motor and the other one is connected to the transmission) to slip. This causes the drive forks to make a rumbling noise against each other when the basket is spinning.
Shock Absorbers
Many washers use shock absorbers to keep the tub from slamming around during the spin cycle. If the shock absorbers are broken or weakened from use, the tub may indeed slam while spinning. If the shock absorbers are leaking fluid, broken or not softening the tumbling of the tub, then they will probably need to be replaced.
Tub Bearing
Tub bearings can usually be found in one of two places. For a top load washer, one tub bearing can usually be found at the bottom of the transmission and the other where the shaft connects to the tub. For a front load, there will be two bearings under the back of the outer tub. If there is excessive noise during the spin cycle, and unusual amount of wobble with the inner tub, the bearings may need to be replaced. They can wear down over time with exposure to harsh detergents and heavy loads, causing your washer loud during spin cycle problem.
Clutch Assembly
A clutch is often used to connect the transmission shaft to the wash tub drive while the spin cycle is in action. If the clutch has been worn out from friction, it can cause scraping sounds or make the spin cycle run slower. You may notice that clothes are still soaking wet when the cycle finishes due to the spin being too slow. Also, if brake dust is found under the washer, it may be an indication that the clutch assembly needs to be replaced.
Pump Belt
Some top load washers use a belt to work the pully connected to the drain pump. The belt can crack or weaken, often squealing or making loud noises while the machine is spinning or draining. If the belt looks heavily worn, or if you smell burning rubber, it may be time to change out the belt. Check your documentation for tension adjustment specifications.
Be sure to turn off power to your machine before removing any parts. Consult a professional appliance repair company with questions or if the noise was not remedied by these parts.
