Is Your Washer Banging? A Guide to Fixing Loud Washing Machine Noises

A washing machine that’s banging, thumping, or grinding during the spin cycle is more than just a noisy annoyance—it’s a clear signal that something is seriously wrong. The loud, violent shaking can be alarming and can even cause the machine to “walk” across the floor. While the cause can sometimes be as simple as an unbalanced load, these sounds often point to a more serious mechanical issue that needs professional attention.

At Star Appliance Repair, we understand the stress of a broken washer. We offer reliable, in-home washer repair Toronto  and throughout the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). We’re here to help you understand the difference between a simple fix and a major repair so you can get your machine running quietly and efficiently again.

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The Most Common Reason: An Unbalanced Load

Before you panic, check for this simple and common cause. An unbalanced load is the number one reason for a loud, banging washer. When heavy items like towels, bedding, or a single bulky comforter get bunched up on one side of the drum, the machine is thrown off-balance during the high-speed spin cycle. This causes the drum to bang violently against the inside of the washer cabinet.

The Fix:

• Pause the cycle and open the door.
• Manually redistribute the clothes so they are evenly spread out inside the drum.
• Close the door and resume the cycle.
• Going forward, try to wash heavy items separately or mix them with lighter items to ensure an even load.

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When a Banging or Grinding Noise Signals a Bigger Problem

If your washer is making a loud noise even with a balanced load, or if the noise is a constant grinding or squealing, it’s likely due to a failing component.

• Worn-Out Drum Bearings: This is a very serious problem and a common cause of a loud grinding or rumbling noise. The drum bearings allow the inner drum to spin smoothly. Over time, they can wear out, causing the drum to wobble and scrape against the outer tub. You can often check for a bad bearing by opening the washer door and trying to lift and rock the drum by hand. If it moves excessively or makes a grinding sound, the bearings are likely shot.
• Broken Shock Absorbers or Suspension Springs: Front-load washers use shock absorbers and top-load washers use suspension springs to keep the tub stable during the spin cycle. If these components wear out or break, the drum will hit the sides of the machine, causing a loud banging sound.
• A Failed Drive Pulley: The drive pulley is what the drive belt wraps around to spin the drum. If it’s loose, bent, or worn out, it can cause the belt to slip or wobble, leading to a loud, banging or squealing noise.
• Foreign Objects Trapped in the Tub: Small items like coins, keys, or bra wires can escape pockets and get lodged between the inner and outer tubs. During the spin cycle, these objects can rattle, creating a loud, scraping, or clicking sound.

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DIY vs. Professional Washer Repair

While you can easily fix an unbalanced load, most of the mechanical issues that cause a loud washer should be handled by a professional.

• Grinding or Scraping Noises: These sounds almost always indicate a mechanical failure, such as bad bearings, a broken drive pulley, or a foreign object stuck in the tub. These repairs require extensive disassembly of the washer and specialized tools.
• Banging or Thumping Noises: If a balanced load isn’t the issue, the problem is likely with the suspension system. Replacing a shock absorber or suspension spring is a complex job that requires careful calibration to ensure the drum is properly supported.

Attempting to fix these problems yourself without the right knowledge can lead to further damage, a more expensive repair, or even a complete breakdown of the machine.

If your washer is making loud, concerning noises, it’s time to call in a professional for a proper diagnosis and a safe repair. A quick fix now can save you from having to buy a new machine later.

Don’t hesitate to contact us or call us at (647)-847-8774. We’re here to get your dryer working again in no time.