Why does the washing machine squeak?
Has your washing machine started squeaking? A creaking or whistling sound can appear without any apparent cause. The machine was running smoothly, everything was fine. Then suddenly it started squeaking. It happens. There can be other causes, too. For example, it might start making this noise after the bearings were replaced, or if the machine has been in use for many years.
Such problems can occur in all wash cycles or in specific parts of the cycle, such as during the spin cycle, rinse cycle, or main wash cycle.
What could cause the creaking sound?
Let's look at all the reasons:
- Firstly, it can occur if the drum touches the sides of the machine. This contact during washing can cause these sounds.
- Secondly, small items can get caught under the drum during the wash cycle. In this case, the squeak is caused by the item rubbing against the drum and tub.
- Thirdly, there are cases when hair, hair and other particles of the washed product remain on the hatch cuff.
- Fourth, it's possible that the drive belt has become loose. The noise you hear could be caused by the belt slipping.
- Fifth, the shaft mount may have become loose.
- Sixth, this sound can originate from the spring attachment points that hold the tank in place.
- And finally, seventhly, these unpleasant sounds can be created by rubbing joints of the machine body.
Washing machine repair
Before starting any repairs, you must unplug the equipment from the outlet. To avoid getting electrocuted during the process, we also need to shut off the water supply by turning off the tap.
Retaining springs
The springs that secure the drum can also cause this problem. More precisely, the creaking noise itself is caused by the spring rods. These rods can rub against the mounting sockets during the wash cycle. How can you tell if this is the root cause of the annoying noise? To check this, remove the top of the washing machine. While the machine is running (just when the creaking noise occurs), press on the mounting socket. If the creaking noise disappears when you press on the rods, you've identified the problem. To fix the problem, lubricate the contact areas between the spring rods and the mounting sockets.
You can use regular machine oil as a lubricant.
Stretched belt
With prolonged use, the drive belt may stretch or wear out. This can cause the belt to spin, creating an unpleasant noise. To correct this, adjust the belt tension. This can be done by increasing it. Or, replace the worn belt with a new one. Below is a video on replacing the belt:
Items got caught between the tank and the drum
As mentioned above, small items can get caught under the washing machine drum during washing. These items, caught between the drum and the tub, can make unpleasant noises during the wash cycle. To remove these items, remove the heating element. Remove the item through the opening where the heating element was previously located.
Shaft
After prolonged use, the drum shaft may become loose. This can cause play, causing the shaft to creak as it comes into contact with internal components. In this case, we can easily fix the problem by tightening the fastening elements.
Contact of the washing machine tank with the walls
If the tank comes into contact with the walls of your machine while it is running, this can also cause squeaking. To confirm that this is the problem, check the tank, springs, and shock absorbers. If you notice any issues, fix them.
Cleaning the cuff
In some cases, small particles from laundry can end up on the washing machine door seal and become lodged there. Therefore, it's important to regularly check the seal for cleanliness and remove any such deposits. When cleaning, pay attention to the gaps. A dirty seal can cause noise from the contact between the debris and the rotating drum.
Frame
The washing machine body consists of several parts. They are usually connected with screws or other fasteners. With prolonged use or poor connections, friction can occur between the individual parts. This friction, in turn, can cause squeaking. As you might have guessed, to solve this problem, you simply need to tighten the screws. In some cases, the fasteners will also need to be replaced.
We hope this instruction will help you with the repair!
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Another possible cause of squeaking could be rust. Simply run the empty machine at 95°C with a generous amount of vinegar or essence—0.5-1 liter, depending on the level of rust.
My washing machine squeaks when it fills with water. Can you tell me what the problem is?
I'll go show my husband this video. Thank you so much.
Hello. I have an 11-year-old Ariston AVSL129R washing machine. It washes once a week for about 4 hours. It drains well, has a good water supply, and heats up perfectly—all functions work perfectly. A week ago, it started creaking. I could barely move the drum. I started turning it manually before washing, and then added laundry (to get it going). I spent two days searching for reviews and couldn't find any. They mentioned bearings, oil seals, belts, etc. What I did: I removed the belt—I could barely turn the drum by hand, making a creaking sound, but it got easier. I removed the door seal—the creaking disappeared, the drum turns easily, as does the small pulley on the motor (where the belt is attached). Then I washed it with grease and put it back on without the belt. The drum turns by hand with difficulty and a creaking sound. Question: Could the seal really be the problem? Thanks in advance, I tried to explain in more detail.
Our washing machine squeaks and makes a grinding noise during the spin cycle. What's causing this?
Hello! My washing machine makes a loud squeak when spinning and when I spin the drum after washing. But when it's dry, there's no sound at all. What could this be?
Thank you, your advice was very helpful, I removed the staples from my bra.