Why does your washing machine make noise any time you start cleaning your clothes? Well, we don’t have a single direct answer to this. However, many reasons can cause a washing machine to make noise.
This article will highlight the most prevalent causes of the problem and ways to prevent your machine from making noise while agitating. Also, this article will highlight the perfect solution about How To Fix Making Noise When Agitating?
Leading Causes Why Your Washing Machine Is Making Noise When Agitating
Several reasons cause a washing machine to make noise when agitating. They include faulty parts, lack of maintenance, and poor manufacturing.
We have highlighted the leading causes in depth. Read on to have a better understanding.
- The Type Of Washer Produces Noise When Agitating
Some washing machines are built to produce sounds when agitating. See, when you switch the direction of the machine’s agitator, it produces a relentless noise. However, not all machines produce noises when starting. We only have a few with this characteristic.
2. Failed Drum Bearing
Faulty drum bearings can also cause noise during the agitating process. To confirm if the bearings are the problem, spin the drum manually when the machine is off. If it produces a loud noise, then the drum bearings are the problem.
The other way you can confirm if the drum bearings are the problem is by observing the discrepancy between the outer and inner drum movement.
To fix the problem, you should open the outer panel and remove the drum. Then, if you have the technical knowledge, replace the drum bearings. However, if you don’t have any knowledge and experience, you can consult online tutorials.
3. Damage Or Strain On The Drive Pulley
Ensure that you inspect your drive pulley severally. That way, you can quickly identify tears or cracks and make a replacement.
A strained pulley is likely to produce noise when the machine is agitating. Therefore, to eliminate the noise, ensure that you disconnect the pulley from the machine severally and inspect it.
4. Worn Out Tub Dampening Strap
This can make the washing machine produce a loud sound when the machine is agitating.
5. The Agitators Dogs Are Skidding
Did you know that the rotating motion of a washing machine is made possible by elements known as agitator dogs? Well, now you know.
You can easily identify the dogs at the center column of the agitator. However, after using the agitator dogs for a long time, they start wearing out. Due to that reason, you will start hearing grin-adding noises as the machine operates.
6. Faulty Clutch Assembly
Most washing machines have a clutch assembly that locks the transmission shaft. However, after repeated use, the clutch pads may wear out, producing a scraping sound. The sound occurs whenever the machine is agitating.
To address the problem, you need to replace the clutch assembly.
7. Stator Assembly Malfunction
A faulty stator assembly can cause noise during agitation. The stator is responsible for producing an electromagnetic connection with other components such as the tab. If the machine indicates an error, the ignition will fail and disturb the agitation process.
To address the problem, you should regularly inspect the rotor behind the washing machine for cracks and damage.
8. Failed U-Joint
A U-joint is a vital player in agitating a washing machine. Therefore, it is commonly referred to as the central mechanism that agitates a machine.
The best part about repairing a U-joint is that anyone can repair it. You don’t require much training and experience.
Nonetheless, you need to note that replacing a failed U-joint is very expensive. Therefore, if you are unable to repair it, you should purchase a new machine instead.
9. Malfunctioning Of The Motor Control Board
If the washing machine makes noises when agitating, ask your technician to check the motor control board. The motor control board is a vital component that powers the machine to start. It also shows the direction for the agitators.
Due to its vital role, you should fix it or replace it as soon as it gets unreliable or worn out.
10. The Motor Coupling Wear
This part of the machine acts as a bridge between the motor and the water supply. Hence, when the coupling wears out, it will overload the washer to overload with water. Due to this reason, the agitation process will be noisy, slow, or even stop working.
11. The Tube Beating Kit
The tube beating kit can also lead to agitation problems. Note that the kit is the most expensive and challenging problem to address.
The best way to address this problem is by replacing the outer tub and bearing of the appliance.
12. A Fraying Drive Belt
A drive belt connects the transmission and motor. It can either be a single V-shape or a multi-rib. Nonetheless, it is made of rubber and has a covering to reduce friction as the motor works.
Over time, the rubber wears out, creating friction. The friction later produces a noisy sound when the machine is agitating.
To fix the problem, inspect the belt for any signs of fraying, burning, and wearing out. Once you identify any of the signs, make a replacement.
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How To Fix Making Noise When Agitating?
Unfortunately, fixing agitating noise is complex. In most cases, it is impossible to fix the problem. Therefore, you will need to buy a new one instead.
1. Asses the Agitator Dogs
As we mentioned above, agitator dogs are responsible for the rotating motions in a washing machine. Therefore, when they become faulty, the machine produces noise during agitation. Below, we have highlighted the best way to address the problem.
Stage 1: Disconnect the washing machine from the power
Stage 2: Open your washing machine. If the machine has a softener dispenser, assess the cogs. You may also be required to remove the agitator base to assess the cogs.
Stage 3: Assess the cogs for any discoloration or damage. Also, check if there is a missing cog.
Stage 4: If you see some damage, ask for a replacement from any reputable vendor.
2. Inspect The Pump
A pump is not a sensitive component. Therefore, if the pump is to blame for the noises, consider yourself lucky. The best way to fix a pump is by cleaning it thoroughly. Read on to have a better understanding of fixing a pump.
Stage 1: Disconnect the washing machine from the electricity connection.
Stage 2: Disconnect the front sheet, then plug the machine back and run it. As you disconnect, make sure you avoid touching the machine with your bare hands to avoid electrocution.
Stage 3: Listen to any agitation noise. If the machine agitates quietly, that’s evidence that a faulty pump causes the problem.
Stage 4: Take out the pump hose and check if the impeller is dirty. If you spot any dirt, clean it up with vinegar.
Stage 5: However, if you notice that the pump has cracked, get a replacement.
3. Check The Clutch Assembly
By assessing the clutch assembly, you will be a few steps closer to establishing the cause of the noise. Below are some steps to guide you during your assessment.
Stage 1: Unplug your machine from the electric source.
Stage 2: Locate your clutch assembly. Most manufacturers place the clutch under the outer tube. Therefore, to access it, you are required to remove the drive motor, the cabinet, and the transmission assembly.
Stage 3: Inspect the component for any wear and tear.
Stage 4: If you see any, get a replacement.
4. Inspect The Shock Absorbers
If the pump is working well, the next step is to inspect the shock absorbers.
First, you need to locate the shock absorber’s location. We have different manufacturers in the market, and they all have different models. For example, some washing machines have shock absorbers located in the front or rear of the machine. Below are the main signs that signify your shock absorbers need a replacement:
- They are leaking.
- They are loosely attached.
- They have torn patches.
If any of the shock absorbers is suffering from the above characteristic, you should replace them. The reason why we recommend a complete replacement is to prevent mismatches from happening between the components.
5. Check The Drive Motors
Another way to reduce the agitating noise is by inspecting the drive motor. The two most common causes of drive motor failures are:
- Faulty Motors.
- Faulty drivers are unable to rotate easily, making the agitation process difficult.
If the noise is a result of a faulty motor, you need to make a replacement. However, if the drivers are the problem, check if anything is stuck on the rotating parts, check if the wiring is in good condition, and finally inspect the capacitor. Once you address the mentioned problems, your motor will rotate freely, and the noise will stop.
Final Thoughts
A noisy washing machine is the last thing you need to hear when you get home after a stressful day at work. Well, you don’t need to worry anymore. All you need to do is inspect the washing machine’s major components, such as the pump, shock absorbers, drive pulley, U-joints, and drive motors.
Once you establish the cause of the noise, please fix it. However, if the problem is too complex, seek technical expertise. Best wishes as you enjoy some peace and tranquility once the machine is fixed!
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