A washer squeaking while spinning can be due to several common causes. Firstly, check for loose items like coins or buttons in the drum. Bearings or belts may need lubrication or replacement if worn. You must ensure the machine is level to prevent vibrations. Tighten loose components and inspect the motor. If the issue persists, it needs the attention of a professional technician.
In normal circumstances, washing machines make several noises, such as minor squeaks and grunts. But when you hear excessive squeaking during the spin cycle, it has moved from a regular operation into a real nuisance.
As a new homeowner, I first encountered this issue when my old Maytag washing machine (LAT9304AAE) began to make a loud squeaking sound whenever it got to the spin cycle. The drum spun, but the squeaky sound was consistent and loud until the spinning slowed. Since the machine was still washing, I was only intent on finding the source of the sound before something failed.
Being mechanically inclined, I tried various troubleshooting approaches. With a few trials and errors, I eventually got the machine operating optimally by replacing the bearing kit with the help of a professional technician.
I soon noticed that replacing the bearing kit isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. A squeaking washing machine during operation indicates a more significant problem and is traceable to several causes. After extensive research, I came up with a list of the common reasons for a washer squeaking when spinning and how to trace the defect. I will also show you actionable steps on how to solve the problem.
Washer Squeaking While Spinning: Causes And Solutions
That strange, awkward sound emitting from your washer while running can result from different defects. After extensive research, I have discovered the following are the possible culprits:
Unbalanced Load Inside The Washer
Improperly balanced load inside the washer can make the appliance top shift around with each cycle, thereby leading to squeaky noise. Sometimes, vibration and squeaking happen in a washing machine when the laundry load is off-center. This is the first thing you should consider before troubleshooting technical issues.
The Solution
Follow these steps to stop your washer from squeaking during spin due to unbalanced load:
- Remove the washer’s drum.
- Manually reposition the load.
- Redistribute the clothes evenly around the drum bearings.
The Washer Isn’t Level
If you’ve ensured a balanced laundry load in the washing machine and it still doesn’t run smoothly, check if the appliance is level. You should suspect this defect very much if you recently moved the device. You may not have aligned it properly, which causes internal components to vibrate. This vibration will translate into the squeaky sound you hear.
The Solution
Did you recently move the appliance from its previous position? If you notice your washing machine squeaking afterward, then follow these steps to fix the issue:
- Unplug the machine.
- Locate the four leveling feet at the corners of the base.
- Check if the washer is level; use an Ingco spirit level.
- Adjust the leveling feet until the machine is perfectly even on all sides.
Leveling your machine can make all the difference in dealing with why your appliance squeaks when working, as mundane as this may sound. Now, wash a load and see if anything changes.
Faulty Agitator Belt
Sometimes, a squeaky washer during the spin cycle can be caused by a more technical problem, such as a faulty agitator belt. The rubber belt spins the drum during each wash cycle, wrapped at the base of the agitator.
There’s a chance that this belt is worn out or damaged, which will happen after fraying or loosening over time. This can cause a loud screeching noise during laundry. The solution is to replace the component. Fortunately, you don’t necessarily need a technician to do it.
The Solution
Follow these steps to replace a faulty agitator belt that causes a squeaking sound during the spin cycle:
- Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
- Remove the top cover of the washer.
- Examine the belt to be sure it needs replacement before removing it. You should notice a loosened, worn-out, or damaged appearance.
- Take measurements of the belt so you can purchase a perfect replacement.
- Thread the new belt through the various pulleys as designed in your washer model.
- Use tensioners or force screws to secure it into place.
If you’re not confident in carrying out these steps, contact a repairer to complete this process.
Clogged Pump Filter
A clogged pump filter is another common reason behind the washing machine’s squeaking noise when spinning because it makes the pump stuck in the drain pump blades.
Since the pump of a washing machine is responsible for pushing water out of the drum into the drain pipe, any problem from the pump can cause a squeaking noise. The common problem is when dirt and debris accumulate in the component.
But while inspecting for clogs, you may also discover damage in the pump or other related problems.
The Solution
The solution to a clogged pump filter that causes a squeaky washer during the spin cycle is to clean the pump filter. Here’s a step-by-step process:
- Unplug the washing machine from the outlet.
- Locate the drain pump filter. The exact location will vary depending on the washer brand. For example, on my Maytag washer, I had to open the dispenser drawer by pulling on the handle at the base. This reveals the drain pump filter.
- Use a cloth to clean away accumulated debris or dirt.
- Put it back in place and run a load of laundry to check the result.
Lid-Switch Assembly Is Faulty
The lid-switch assembly on a washer prompts the appliance to either be in idle mode or to be in use. So, when this part is loosened or worn out, it can cause an irritating clunking noise, among many other issues.
The Solution
If your washing machine is squeaking during the wash cycle and you traced it to the lid-switch assembly, then it’s a problem of dissonance between the two signals.
The solution is to inspect the switch assembly and tighten any screws causing the issue. Here’s a quick guide to follow:
- Unplug the machine and remove the lid switch assembly from its housing.
- Install a new lid switch if found faulty.
- Remember to follow all safety precautions. Contact a maintenance specialist if you feel unsure about installing a replacement.
- After the replacement, check if the machine works smoothly.
Faulty Bearings
Squeaking sounds can emit from your washer, especially during spinning, when the bearing is worn out or faulty. This is because the bearing component in modern washers supports the drum’s rotation. Typically, you will find this at the back of the washer, below the outer hub.
Even in regular operation, it’s ideal to check the bearing occasionally. So when the squeaking sound becomes alarming, this is one sure area to look into.
The solution
The one-stop solution for a washing machine making a squeaking noise due to faulty bearings is to replace the bearing.
Sadly, it’s a tricky attempt. In my case, I had to solicit the help of a local technician in my neighborhood. From my experience, here are the basic procedures:
- Turn off the power supply and disconnect the cold water lines attached to the appliance.
- Open the washer’s housing to access the drum using a screwdriver.
- Inspect the bearing, specifically for wear and tear signs.
- Once you identify any sign of damage, you order a replacement for your washer’s model bearing.
- You want to take measurements from the inside of the appliance so you can buy compatible parts
Inadequate Lubrication
In my experience fixing appliances at home, lubrication is a universal solution for mechanical problems related to unpleasant sounds. Fortunately, it also applies to squeaky sounds from front-load washers.
Look at the machine’s bearings and joints and ensure they have adequate lubrication to operate smoothly.
The Solution
- Unplug the machine and remove the covers.
- Carefully apply lubricants to all the tub bearings and joints. I recommend using WD-40 lubricant because it provides up to five times greater wear protection than the competition.
- Consider replacing the guards and covers.
By now, the problem of your washer squeaking when spinning should have disappeared after trying these troubleshooting tips.
If there’s still no dice, contact a technician to look professionally at the situation.
Concluding Thoughts
Remember that a machine operating normally may still make this sound. For example, you can expect the appliance to squeak when overloaded. The problem may even go away if you do a light load.
But when you notice that the noise is consistent even when you put in a load that the machine handles typically, there is more than meets the eye.
If the squeaking noise from your washer during the spin cycle has been troubling you and you don’t know how to trace the root cause, I hope this article has helped you.
Is there a particular noise from your washer that goes beyond what I’ve discussed in this article? Feel free to share in the comment section; I’ll gladly help with my thoughts.
FAQs
1. How can I fix a washer that is squeaking when spinning?
Several factors could be behind a washing machine squeaking. To fix this issue, first, unplug the washer for safety and check for loose items inside the drum. Check the drive belt for wear and tear.
Lubricate the bearings, pulleys, or motors and test these components with a multimeter to see if they need replacement. Inspect parts and bolts and tighten them if loose.
2. What are the common causes of a washing machine squeaking noise during the spin cycle?
Worn-out or damaged bearings, a malfunctioning drive belt, loose or damaged pulleys, a faulty motor, or a misaligned drum can cause a washing machine to make a squeaking noise during the spin cycle. These issues cause friction and vibration, translating to a loud squeaking sound.
3. Is it normal for a washing machine to squeak during the wash cycle?
No, it is not normal for a washing machine to squeak during the wash cycle. So, the squeaking sounds can indicate a mechanical issue, such as worn-out bearings, a loose belt, or a malfunctioning part.
When this happens, troubleshoot for defects in the above components to trace where the sound is coming from.
Alanna is an avid traveler who lives in Michigan. In addition to writing for Temperature Master, he also sells crafts on Etsy and takes long walks through the forests near her home.