A noisy washing machine is often caused by an unbalanced load, loose drum, worn bearings, damaged belts, or objects stuck inside the drum or pump. Some issues can be fixed at home, but persistent or loud noises usually require professional washer repair to prevent further damage and costly breakdowns.
When Washer Noises Are a Warning, Not an Annoyance
A washing machine should never sound like it’s about to take off.
Yet many homeowners across Memphis, Arlington, Germantown, and surrounding Tennessee areas ignore washer noises, assuming they’re harmless. In reality, unusual sounds are often your washer’s first warning sign.
At Chris Appliance Company, we’ve repaired thousands of washing machines over the past 18+ years, and one thing is clear:
👉 Most major washer failures started with a noise the homeowner ignored.
This guide will help you:
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Identify common washer noises
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Try safe, quick fixes at home
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Know exactly when to stop and call a professional technician
Why Is My Washing Machine Making Noise?
Washers are mechanical systems with moving parts, water pressure, and electrical components. Over time, wear, vibration, and debris can create sounds that indicate trouble.
Common washer noise categories:
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Banging or thumping
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Grinding or scraping
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Squealing or squeaking
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Buzzing or humming
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Clicking or rattling
Each sound points to a specific issue, and catching it early can save you hundreds of dollars.
1. Banging or Thumping During the Spin Cycle
What it sounds like:
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Loud knocking
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Repetitive banging
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Washer “walking” across the floor
Most common cause: Unbalanced load
This is the most fixable washer noise.
Quick fix:
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Pause the washer
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Redistribute clothes evenly
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Avoid washing one heavy item alone (like a blanket)
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Make sure the washer is level on the floor
When to call a technician:
If banging continues even with balanced loads, the issue may be:
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Worn suspension rods
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Damaged shock absorbers
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Loose drum assembly
In these cases, professional washer repair service is required to prevent structural damage.
2. Grinding or Scraping Noises
What it sounds like:
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Metal-on-metal grinding
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Harsh scraping during agitation or spin
Possible causes:
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Worn drum bearings
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Foreign objects (coins, screws) stuck between drum and tub
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Damaged drive pulley
What you can safely check:
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Look inside the drum for loose items
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Check the rubber door seal (front-load washers)
Do NOT attempt:
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Removing the drum
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Running the washer repeatedly
Grinding noises almost always indicate internal wear and should be inspected by a professional washing machine repair technician.
3. Squealing or High-Pitched Sounds
What it sounds like:
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Sharp squeal
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Loud whining noise
Common causes:
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Worn drive belt
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Failing motor pulley
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Belt slipping due to moisture or age
Why this matters:
A damaged belt can snap suddenly, leaving your washer completely inoperable.
Best action:
This is not a DIY repair for most homeowners. A trained technician can replace the belt quickly and safely during a same-day washer repair visit.
4. Clicking or Rattling Noises
What it sounds like:
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Clicking during rotation
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Rattling during wash or drain cycle
Often caused by:
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Coins, keys, or buttons trapped in the drum
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Objects stuck in the drain pump
Quick fix:
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Check pockets before washing
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Inspect the pump filter (if accessible)
Important:
If rattling continues after removing loose items, internal components may be loosening—something best handled by a professional.
5. Loud Buzzing or Humming
What it sounds like:
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Constant buzzing
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Humming without spinning
Possible issues:
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Jammed drain pump
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Electrical motor strain
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Control board problems
What NOT to do:
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Do not keep restarting the washer
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Do not ignore electrical sounds
Buzzing can escalate into motor failure or electrical damage, making prompt professional diagnosis essential.
6. Washer Shaking Violently
What it looks like:
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Washer shaking excessively
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Moving across the laundry room
Quick checks:
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Ensure the washer is level
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Tighten adjustable feet
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Avoid overloading
When shaking becomes serious:
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Broken suspension springs
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Cracked tub support
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Worn bearings
Continued operation can crack the washer frame, leading to total appliance failure.
7. Noise Only During Drain Cycle
What it sounds like:
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Gurgling
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Rattling
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Grinding during draining
Likely causes:
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Clogged drain pump
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Debris buildup
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Pump motor failure
Quick fix:
If accessible, clean the drain filter. If noise persists, stop using the washer and schedule professional service.
8. Washer Is Quiet, Then Suddenly Loud
This pattern often signals progressive mechanical failure.
Components may work intermittently before completely failing—especially bearings and motors.
This is one of the most common scenarios where early repair prevents total breakdown.
Insight from a Local Appliance Technician
“Almost every washer we replace could have been repaired earlier for much less. Noises are the washer’s way of warning you. Once customers hear grinding or squealing, waiting usually doubles the repair cost.”
— Senior Technician, Chris Appliance Company (18+ years experience)
Repair or Replace: How to Decide
Repair makes sense if:
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Washer is under 10 years old
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Noise comes from belts, pumps, or suspension parts
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Unit otherwise works well
Replacement may be better if:
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Drum bearings are severely damaged on an old washer
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Repair cost approaches half the price of a new unit
A professional inspection gives you clarity before making a costly decision.
Why is my washing machine making loud noises during spin?
This usually happens due to an unbalanced load, worn suspension components, or damaged bearings. If balancing doesn’t fix it, a professional inspection is recommended.
Can I keep using a noisy washer?
No. Continued use can worsen internal damage, increase repair costs, and lead to sudden breakdowns or water leaks.
How much does washer repair cost in Memphis?
Costs depend on the problem and parts needed. Minor fixes are usually affordable, while bearing or motor issues cost more. A diagnosis ensures accurate pricing.
Do you offer same-day washer repair near me?
Yes. Same-day washer repair is often available in Memphis, Arlington, Germantown, Cordova, and nearby areas depending on availability.
How long does a washer repair take?
Most washer repairs are completed in one visit, typically within 1–2 hours if parts are available.
Should I repair an old washing machine?
If the washer is very old and has major internal damage, replacement may be more cost-effective. A technician can advise after inspection.
When to Call a Professional Washer Repair Technician
You should stop DIY troubleshooting and call a professional if:
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Noise continues after balancing loads
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You hear grinding, squealing, or buzzing
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The washer shakes violently
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Electrical smells or overheating occur
Delaying service often turns a small repair into a major expense.
Need Washer Repair in Memphis or Arlington?
Chris Appliance Company provides fast, reliable in-home washer repair across:
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Memphis
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Arlington
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Germantown
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Bartlett
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Cordova
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Nearby Tennessee areas
With 18+ years of experience, honest diagnostics, and same-day service availability, we help homeowners fix problems before they become costly breakdowns.
👉 Call now or schedule your washer repair service today and get your washing machine running smoothly again.
