Washer Making Squeaking Noise

Quick answer

A squeaking washer is often caused by a worn belt or unbalanced load. Turn off the washer, check the belt for wear or looseness, and replace if needed. Also, redistribute the laundry evenly to eliminate the noise.

Confirm the symptom

• Squeaking noise during spin cycle
• Noise only when the washer is spinning
• Noise stops when the washer is off

Tools and prep

• Screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Replacement Belt
• Socket Wrench Set
• Towel or Rags
• Multimeter
• Infrared Thermometer
• Shop Vacuum or Soft Brush

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Prep & safety

• Unplug the washer from the power outlet to prevent electrical hazards.
• Ensure the washer is empty and the load is balanced before starting.
• Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to avoid injury.
• Turn off the water supply to the washer if you need to access internal components.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Unplug the Washer
   Do: Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet.
   Observe: The washer is powered off and safe to work on.
   Means: Electrical safety is ensured.
   Next: Inspect the belt.
2. Inspect the Belt
   Do: Locate the drive belt under the washer lid or behind the front panel. Check for cracks, fraying, or looseness.
   Observe: The belt is either intact or damaged.
   Means: A damaged or loose belt can cause squeaking.
   Next: Check belt tension.
3. Check Belt Tension
   Do: Press down on the belt with your finger. It should have slight give but not sag excessively.
   Observe: The belt is either properly tensioned or too loose.
   Means: A loose belt may need adjustment or replacement.
   Next: Replace or adjust the belt if needed.
4. Replace or Adjust the Belt
   Do: If the belt is damaged, replace it with a new one. If it's loose, adjust the tension by repositioning the motor or using the tensioner.
   Observe: The belt is now properly tensioned or replaced.
   Means: The squeaking should be resolved.
   Next: Test the washer.
5. Test the Washer
   Do: Plug the washer back in and run a short spin cycle with a small load of laundry.
   Observe: The washer either operates quietly or still squeaks.
   Means: The noise is either resolved or persists.
   Next: Check for other issues if the noise continues.
6. Check for Other Issues
   Do: If the noise persists, inspect the pulley, motor, and drum for wear or misalignment.
   Observe: You find or don't find additional issues.
   Means: Other components may be causing the noise.
   Next: Clean the drum and pulley.
7. Clean the Drum and Pulley
   Do: Use a towel or rag to clean any dirt or debris from the drum and pulley.
   Observe: The drum and pulley are clean.
   Means: Debris can cause friction and noise.
   Next: Reassemble and test.
8. Reassemble and Test
   Do: Replace any panels or covers you removed. Run another spin cycle to confirm the noise is gone.
   Observe: The washer operates quietly.
   Means: The issue is resolved.
   Next: Complete

Common causes

Parts you might need

When replacing parts, ensure they match the specifications of your washer model.

• Drive belt: match the length and width of the old belt
• Pulley: match the diameter and mounting hole size
• Drum bearings: match the model number and size from the old bearings
• Motor: match the voltage and horsepower rating of the old motor
• Tensioner: match the type and size of the existing tensioner

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Refer to your washer's manual for specific part numbers and compatibility information.

When to call a professional

• The noise persists after replacing the belt and cleaning the drum
• You suspect a faulty motor or drum bearings
• You are unsure about the cause of the noise
• The washer is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it
• You lack the tools or experience to safely perform the repair

FAQ