Washing Machine Repair Near Me in Mombasa | Mombasa-Appliances 0709004600
Is your washing machine making loud banging, grinding, or squeaking noises? A noisy washer doesn’t always mean you need an expensive repair or replacement. Most washing machine noise problems can be fixed at home with basic tools and a little know-how.
Common Washing Machine Noises and Their Fixes
Banging or Thumping Noise:
- Unbalanced load (redistribute clothes evenly)
- Unlevel machine (adjust leveling feet)
- Worn shock absorbers or suspension springs (may need replacement)
Grinding or Scraping Noise:
- Foreign object stuck in drum or pump (check and remove)
- Worn drum bearings (requires professional repair)
- Damaged drive pulley or belt (inspect and replace if needed)
Squeaking or Squealing Noise:
- Worn or loose drive belt (tighten or replace)
- Faulty drive motor (may need lubrication or replacement)
- Drum rollers need lubrication
Understanding Your Noisy Washing Machine
Before diving into repairs, it’s important to identify when the noise occurs. Does it happen during the wash cycle, spin cycle, or when draining? This timing can help pinpoint the exact issue.
Most washing machine noises fall into three categories: banging sounds (usually load or balance issues), grinding sounds (typically mechanical problems), and squeaking sounds (often friction or belt-related). Let’s explore how to fix each one.
How to Fix Banging and Thumping Noises
Problem 1: Unbalanced Load
The Issue: When clothes clump together on one side of the drum, the washer becomes unbalanced during the spin cycle, causing loud banging or thumping sounds.
The Fix:
- Stop the wash cycle and open the lid or door
- Redistribute the clothes evenly around the drum
- Avoid washing single heavy items alone (add towels for balance)
- Don’t overload the machine—fill only 2/3 to 3/4 full
- If washing bulky items like comforters, use the large load or bulky setting
Prevention Tip: Mix large and small items together, and avoid washing all heavy items (like jeans) in one load.
Problem 2: Unlevel Washing Machine
The Issue: If your washer isn’t sitting level on the floor, it will rock and bang during the spin cycle.
The Fix:
- Use a level tool to check if the machine is balanced front-to-back and side-to-side
- Locate the adjustable feet at the bottom corners of the washer
- Turn the feet clockwise to lower, counterclockwise to raise
- Adjust until the machine is perfectly level
- Once level, tighten the lock nuts against the washer base to secure the feet
- Rock the machine gently to ensure it doesn’t wobble
Pro Tip: Most washers have four adjustable feet. The front feet usually adjust by turning, while rear feet may self-adjust when you tilt the machine forward and set it back down.
Problem 3: Worn Shock Absorbers or Suspension Springs
The Issue: These components dampen the drum movement during spinning. When worn, the drum moves excessively and bangs against the cabinet.
The Fix:
- Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet
- Pull the machine away from the wall for access
- Remove the back or front panel (consult your manual for your model)
- Locate the shock absorbers (usually at the bottom) or suspension springs (at the top)
- Check for broken springs, worn rubber, or damaged shock absorbers
- If damaged, note the part numbers and order replacements
- Remove old parts and install new ones according to manufacturer instructions
- Reassemble the panels and test the machine
When to Call a Professional: If you’re uncomfortable disassembling your washer or if multiple suspension components need replacement, this might be a job for an appliance repair technician.
How to Fix Grinding and Scraping Noises
Problem 1: Foreign Objects in the Drum or Pump
The Issue: Coins, buttons, bra underwires, and other small items can slip through the drum holes and get caught in the pump or between the drum and tub, creating grinding or scraping sounds.
The Fix:
- Unplug the washing machine
- Check the drum: Shine a flashlight inside and rotate the drum slowly by hand, looking for objects
- Remove the agitator (top-loaders): Unscrew the cap and lift out to access the space underneath
- Check the pump filter (front-loaders):
- Locate the pump filter access panel (usually bottom front)
- Place a shallow pan underneath to catch water
- Open the panel and slowly unscrew the filter
- Remove any debris
- Screw the filter back in securely
- Check between drum and tub: If an item is lodged here, you may need to remove the front or back panel to access it
- Run an empty cycle to test
Prevention: Always check pockets before washing and use mesh laundry bags for delicate items with small parts.
Problem 2: Worn Drum Bearings
The Issue: Bearings support the drum as it spins. When they wear out, you’ll hear a loud grinding or rumbling noise, especially during the spin cycle.
The Test:
- Unplug the machine
- Open the door and try to move the drum up and down
- If there’s excessive play or loud grinding when you rotate it by hand, the bearings are likely worn
The Fix: Drum bearing replacement is a complex repair that requires almost complete disassembly of the washing machine. For most people, this is best left to professionals. However, if your washer is old and the repair cost is high, it might be more economical to replace the entire machine.
Cost Consideration: Bearing replacement can cost $150-400 for parts and labor. Compare this to the cost of a new machine before deciding.
Problem 3: Damaged Drive Belt or Pulley
The Issue: The drive belt connects the motor to the drum. If it’s worn, frayed, or has debris on it, it can cause grinding or squealing sounds.
The Fix:
- Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply
- Pull the machine away from the wall
- Remove the back panel (or front panel on some models)
- Locate the drive belt wrapped around the drum and motor pulley
- Inspect the belt for:
- Cracks, fraying, or glazing
- Proper tension (should have slight give but not be loose)
- Debris or buildup
- If damaged, note the part number and purchase a replacement
- To remove: Release tension and slip the belt off the pulleys
- To install: Loop the new belt around the motor pulley first, then stretch it over the drum pulley while rotating the drum
- Ensure the belt sits properly in the pulley grooves
- Replace the panel and test
Difficulty Level: Moderate. This repair requires some mechanical aptitude but is doable for confident DIYers.
How to Fix Squeaking and Squealing Noises
Problem 1: Loose or Worn Drive Belt
The Issue: A loose belt slips on the pulleys, while a worn or glazed belt creates friction, both causing squealing sounds.
The Fix:
- Access the drive belt (see steps in grinding section above)
- Check belt tension: Press on the belt between pulleys—it should deflect about 1/2 inch
- If too loose, check if your model has an adjustable motor mount:
- Loosen the motor mounting bolts
- Slide the motor to increase tension
- Tighten the bolts
- If the belt appears glazed (shiny and smooth), lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper
- Clean the pulleys with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue
- If the belt is cracked or severely worn, replace it (see steps above)
Quick Fix: Sometimes squealing occurs when the belt is new. Run the washer through several cycles, and the noise often disappears as the belt seats properly.
Problem 2: Faulty Drive Motor
The Issue: The motor itself can squeal if its bearings are wearing out or if it lacks lubrication.
The Fix:
- Access the motor (same steps as accessing the drive belt)
- Spin the motor pulley by hand—it should turn freely without resistance or grinding
- Some motors have oil ports: Add a few drops of electric motor oil if specified in your manual
- Check for overheating: A burning smell indicates motor problems
- If the motor bearings are worn or the motor is overheating, replacement is usually necessary
When to Replace: Motors typically last 10-15 years. If your washer is older and the motor is failing, consider whether repair or replacement is more economical.
Problem 3: Worn Drum Rollers or Glides
The Issue: Drum rollers (rear-mounted wheels) or drum glides (front-mounted pads) support the drum as it rotates. When worn, they can squeak or cause the drum to wobble.
The Fix:
- Unplug the machine and access the drum area
- For drum rollers (usually in front-loaders):
- Locate the rollers at the back of the drum
- Check for flat spots, wear, or damage
- If worn, order replacement rollers
- Remove the drum (requires partial disassembly) to access and replace rollers
- For drum glides (usually in top-loaders):
- Locate the glides where the drum rests on the tub
- Check for wear or cracks
- Replace if worn—these typically slide or snap into place
- Lubricate with appropriate lubricant if allowed by manufacturer
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult, depending on your model. Drum roller replacement often requires significant disassembly.
General Maintenance to Prevent Washing Machine Noise
Regular Cleaning:
- Run a cleaning cycle monthly with washing machine cleaner or white vinegar
- Clean the pump filter every 3-6 months
- Wipe down door seals to prevent buildup
Proper Loading:
- Don’t overload the machine
- Balance heavy and light items
- Check pockets for loose items
Installation Maintenance:
- Check that the machine remains level every 6 months
- Ensure all shipping bolts were removed during installation
- Keep the floor stable—reinforce if the machine sits on a weak floor
Listen for Changes:
- Unusual noises often start small and get worse
- Address new sounds quickly to prevent further damage
- Keep track of when noises occur (which cycle, how often)
When to Call a Professional
While many washing machine noise issues can be DIY fixes, some situations warrant professional help:
- You’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances
- The machine requires extensive disassembly (drum bearing replacement)
- You’ve tried basic fixes and the noise persists
- There’s water leaking along with the noise
- The machine is still under warranty (DIY repairs may void it)
- Multiple components appear to need replacement
Cost Expectations: Simple repairs (belt replacement, shock absorbers) typically cost $100-250. Complex repairs (bearings, motors) can run $200-500. Always get quotes from multiple repair services and compare against replacement cost.
Final Thoughts
A noisy washing machine is frustrating, but it’s often fixable without spending hundreds on a repair technician or thousands on a new machine. Start with the simplest solutions—redistributing loads, leveling the machine, and checking for foreign objects. These fixes cost nothing and solve many noise problems.
For mechanical issues like worn belts or shock absorbers, assess your comfort level with DIY repairs. Many components are accessible and replaceable with basic tools and patience. However, don’t hesitate to call a professional for complex repairs or if you’re unsure about the diagnosis.
Regular maintenance and proper use will keep your washing machine running quietly for years. Pay attention to new noises and address them early—small problems are easier and cheaper to fix than major breakdowns.
Has this guide helped you identify and fix your noisy washing machine? Remember, most noise issues have straightforward solutions, and your washer can be back to quiet operation with just a little effort.