Washing machine produces squeaking and shaking noises when it's pressed: a plumber exposes the top 5 explanations you might not be aware of
In the world of household appliances, a noisy and vibrating washing machine can be a source of annoyance. To ensure your washing machine operates efficiently, quietly, and lasts longer, follow these guidelines.
First and foremost, it's crucial to install your washing machine correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This step not only guarantees its longevity but also ensures efficient operation.
When it comes to troubleshooting and preventing vibration and noise, there are several key steps to follow:
- Level the washing machine: Place the washer on a firm, even floor and adjust the feet to eliminate any rocking when pushing diagonally from corner to corner. If a drain pan raises the machine, the leveling legs may need adjustment.
- Balance the load evenly: Avoid washing single heavy items alone or unevenly distributed laundry. Place clothes loosely and evenly around the agitator or drum. Unbalanced loads trigger vibration and noise, especially during spin cycles.
- Avoid overloading or underloading: Too small or too large loads can cause imbalance and vibration.
- Use the correct amount of detergent: Excess detergent creates too many suds, leading to stress and noise in machine components.
- Regular maintenance: Check and replace worn parts like shock absorbers or bearings as needed. Clean the drum and hoses regularly to prevent buildup that could cause noise.
For additional tips, consider using anti-vibration pads. These pads can reduce movement and noise, making them particularly useful for laminate floors during intense spin cycles. They help prevent the "movement" of the washing machine and increase the lifespan of the appliance by reducing the transmission of vibration to the floor. After removal, plastic plugs from the kit should be inserted into the holes to prevent excessive noise, vibration, and potential damage at high spin speeds.
Remember, transport bolts are intended to provide stability during transportation, not during regular use. Forgotten transport bolts in washing machines are a common cause of loud banging and vibration. Regularly checking and maintaining the transport bolts and plugs can help prevent washing machine breakdowns.
If vibration and noise persist after these checks, inspect for worn internal parts or call a professional technician for repair. Issues with the power filter can cause noise and pose a risk of fire or electric shock. Bearing failure can cause loud scraping and vibration, often requiring complete machine disassembly and drum replacement.
By following these practices, you'll reduce vibration and noise, extend the washing machine’s lifespan, and maintain a peaceful home environment.
Implement anti-vibration pads underneath your washing machine to further reduce movement and noise, especially on delicate home-and-garden floors or laminates during spin cycles. Regularly maintain your washing machine by checking and replacing worn parts like shock absorbers or bearings as needed, as well as cleaning the drum and hoses to prevent buildup that could cause noise, and ensure a lifestyle that values a quiet home-and-garden environment, while also prolonging the lifespan of your home-improvement appliances.
