When a washing machine gets noisy, it’s telling you something. Some sounds are quick DIY fixes; others mean it’s time to call a tech. Here’s a simple guide for Waterloo and Kitchener homeowners to decode the sound—and what to do next.
Safety first: Unplug the machine before checking inside. If you smell burning or see smoke, stop immediately and call a technician.
1) Thumping or Banging (especially on spin)
Likely causes: Unbalanced load, machine not level, worn suspension/struts.
Try this first:
- Redistribute the load (separate heavy towels/blankets).
- Level the washer: adjust the feet until it’s stable corner-to-corner.
If it persists: Suspension rods/shock absorbers may be worn.
2) Grinding or Rubbing
Likely causes: Foreign object between drum and tub (coin, bra wire), worn drum bearings, or a failing drive component.
Try this first:
- Check the drum gap with a flashlight; inspect the door boot/gasket.
- Spin the drum by hand—gritty feel = possible bearing issue.
Call a tech if: You hear grinding at all speeds or see brown/grease stains—bearings or seal may be failing.
3) Squealing or High-Pitch Whine
Likely causes: Slipping drive belt, worn idler pulley, or failing motor.
Try this first:
- Light loads still squeal? Belt/pulley likely.
Call a tech if: Noise gets worse under spin or you smell rubber—parts need replacement.
4) Clicking or Tapping
Likely causes: Coins, buttons, or debris in the drum, pump filter, or drain pump.
Try this first:
- Empty pockets, remove loose items.
- Clean the pump filter (usually behind a small lower access door on front-loaders). Have a tray/towel ready—water will drain.
If clicking continues: Check the drain pump for damage.
5) Rattling During Fill/Drain
Likely causes: Loose hoses, vibrating water lines, partially clogged inlet screens.
Try this first:
- Tighten hose connections (hand-tight plus a quarter-turn).
- Clean inlet screens on the back (shut off water first).
Still rattling? The pump or mounting points may need service.
6) Humming but Not Spinning
Likely causes: Jammed pump, seized motor, faulty start capacitor (top-loaders).
DIY check:
- Clean the pump filter; remove visible debris.
If it keeps humming: Book a diagnostic—motor/pump components may be failing.
7) Metal-on-Metal Scrape
Likely causes: Loose drum spider, broken baffle, or off-track inner drum.
Do not run the cycle. This can escalate damage quickly. Call a technician.
Quick DIY Checklist (Before You Book)
- Level the machine and re-balance loads.
- Clean the pump filter and check for debris.
- Inspect hoses and inlet screens.
- Listen: when does the noise happen—fill, wash, spin, or drain?
If the sound returns after these steps—or you’re hearing grinding, squealing, or metal scraping—it’s time for a professional repair.
Need Washer Repair in Waterloo or Kitchener?
We can diagnose the noise quickly and tell you straight whether to repair or replace.
Serving Waterloo, Kitchener, and Cambridge
See our appliance repair services
Contact us to book your repair