What To Know
- A noisy washing machine can be a major annoyance, especially if it’s accompanied by a knocking or banging sound from the drum.
- Putting too much laundry in the machine can overload the drum and cause it to knock against the sides.
- A knocking washing machine drum can be a nuisance, but it can also be an indication of a more serious issue.
A noisy washing machine can be a major annoyance, especially if it’s accompanied by a knocking or banging sound from the drum. This issue can be frustrating and may even damage your machine if left unchecked. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the common causes of a knocking washing machine drum and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.
Causes of a Knocking Washing Machine Drum
1. Unbalanced Load: An unevenly distributed load can cause the drum to wobble and knock against the sides of the machine.
2. Worn Shock Absorbers: Shock absorbers dampen the vibrations caused by the spinning drum. Over time, they can become worn or damaged, leading to excessive noise.
3. Loose Drive Belt: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it becomes loose or worn, it can slip and cause a knocking sound.
4. Faulty Drum Bearing: The drum bearing supports the weight of the drum and allows it to rotate smoothly. If it becomes damaged or worn, it can cause friction and knocking noises.
5. Broken Suspension Rods: Suspension rods hold the drum in place and prevent it from wobbling. If these rods become broken or disconnected, the drum can move excessively and knock against the machine.
6. Damaged Drum: In rare cases, the drum itself may become damaged, such as a crack or dent. This can cause the drum to wobble and make loud noises.
7. Overloading: Putting too much laundry in the machine can overload the drum and cause it to knock against the sides.
Troubleshooting and Fixing the Problem
1. Check Load Distribution
- Pause the washing cycle and redistribute the laundry evenly throughout the drum.
- Avoid overloading the machine, as this can put excessive strain on the components.
2. Inspect Shock Absorbers
- Unplug the machine and remove the back panel.
- Check if the shock absorbers are securely attached to the drum and the machine frame.
- If they appear worn or damaged, they may need to be replaced.
3. Tighten Drive Belt
- Remove the back panel and locate the drive belt.
- Check if it is loose or worn.
- If necessary, adjust the tension of the belt by tightening the bolts that hold it in place.
4. Replace Drum Bearing
- This is a more complex repair that requires disassembling the washing machine.
- If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, it is best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
5. Fix Broken Suspension Rods
- Remove the back panel and locate the suspension rods.
- Check if any of them are broken or disconnected.
- If so, replace or reconnect the rods as necessary.
6. Repair Damaged Drum
- If the drum is cracked or dented, it may need to be replaced.
- This is a major repair that should be performed by a qualified technician.
7. Avoid Overloading
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the maximum load capacity of your washing machine.
- Overloading can damage the machine and cause knocking noises.
Prevention Tips
- Distribute laundry evenly before starting a cycle.
- Avoid overloading the machine.
- Clean the machine regularly to prevent buildup that can affect performance.
- Have the machine serviced by a qualified technician annually to ensure optimal operation.
Key Points: Keeping Your Washing Machine Drum Knock-Free
A knocking washing machine drum can be a nuisance, but it can also be an indication of a more serious issue. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and fix the problem to keep your machine running smoothly and quietly. Remember to practice preventive maintenance by distributing laundry evenly, avoiding overloading, and having the machine serviced regularly.
