Why your washing machine is making a loud noise during spin

⚡️Fast fix

• Realign your clothes: An uneven load can cause loud thumping noises.
• Remove loose items: Check for loose change or foreign objects that bang against your washer's drum.
• Level the washer: Verify that your washer is aligned with the floor using a spirit level.

The last few times you've used your washer, it's made a strange noise. You thought it would go away, but it's gotten worse. In fact, you've caught your downstairs neighbors giving you the side eye when you pass them in your building. Is there anything you can do to fix it?

Asurion Experts keep your home appliances running smoothly. Whether your washing machine won't start or the washing machine agitator isn't working, we can help. Here's what to do when your washing machine is making a loud noise during the spin cycle.

Check for an unbalanced load or unlevel floor

Washing machine banging on the spin cycle can be caused by an unbalanced load. This occurs when too much laundry makes its way to one side of the tub. To fix the issue, spread items evenly across the tub and restart your machine.

If you experience unbalanced loads often, think about what you're washing. Avoid mixing heavy items, such as blankets, with lighter-weight materials. And keep the total laundry weight within the manufacturer's suggested capacity.

Adjust washer feet

Why is your washing machine so loud when spinning? It may be off balance. Front and top-load washers have adjustable feet. If one or more of the feet isn't level, it can cause your washer to emit loud thumping noises. 

You can use a spirit level to check your washing machine's balance. Place the device on top of the washer with the bubble side facing you. If the bubble stays in the center of the washer, it's balanced. But if it floats to the left or right, it's unbalanced. The side that the bubble moves to is higher off the ground.

Most washers have self-leveling rear legs and adjustable front ones. If your appliance is unbalanced, try adjusting the front legs first. Take these steps:

1. Keep the spirit level positioned on the top of your washer.
2. Use a wrench or adjustable pliers to shorten or extend the washer leg that's off balance. Make minor adjustments and check the spirit level each time.
3. Continue making adjustments until the spirit level is fully centered.

If you suspect the washer's rear legs are contributing to the imbalance, check their type. Manually adjustable rear legs will have a lock-and-nut setup like the front ones. Use the spirit level to assess their balance and gently nudge them into place using a wrench or pliers.

To correct self-leveling legs, carefully tip the washer so its weight is on the back legs. This should nudge them into place.

Identify the cause by the type of noise

The sound your washer makes can help you figure out its problem. Grinding noises mean something's wrong with the washer's bearings or couplings, while squealing signifies a belt or pump issue.

Worn or damaged drive belt

A washer that's not spinning may have a failing or broken drive belt. You may hear squealing noises whenever the washer enters the high-speed spin cycle.

To inspect a washer's drive belt, take these steps:

1. Unplug the washer from its power source and water supply lines.
2. Locate the washer's access supply panel. It's usually on the front or back of the machine.
3. Remove the access panel by popping its latch or unscrewing any screws holding it in place.
4. Look for a rubber belt that's located around the motor and drum. Inspect it for obvious damage, such as cracks or uneven wear patterns.

A worn belt requires replacement. Continuing to use the washer may damage the motor or other parts. 

Faulty tub bearings or motor coupling

If your washing machine makes a grinding noise when spinning, its bearings or motor coupling may be going bad. This is especially true if the sounds get louder every time you use the washing machine.

To check your washer's bearings, take these steps:

1. Make sure your washer is empty and unplug it from power.
2. Spin the drum by hand.
   • Front-load washer: Push the drum up and down to see if it snaps back in place.
   • Top-load washer: Listen for loud noises when you spin the drum.

If you hear loud noises or the tub moves excessively when you spin it, the bearings are likely faulty. Don't use the washer again until you have it inspected, as further use could break the tub or cause motor damage. 

When to call a professional for washing machine repair

Simple fixes like adjusting unbalanced loads and leveling can often stop a washer from making loud noises during the spin cycle. However, you'll want to get professional help for mechanical issues like damaged belts or faulty bearings. If not fixed, they can cause flooding or motor failure.