Washing Machine Making a Loud Noise During Spin? Here’s What to Do

A noisy washing machine during the spin cycle is one of the most common appliance complaints. Sometimes it's a quick fix; other times it's a sign of a bigger problem. Here's how to diagnose it.

Common Causes of Spin Cycle Noise

1. Uneven Load

Sound: Banging, thumping
Cause: A single heavy item like a jeans or towel has clumped to one side
Fix: Pause the cycle, redistribute the load evenly, restart

2. Machine Is Not Level

Sound: Vibrating, walking across the floor
Cause: Unlevel feet cause the machine to shake excessively
Fix: Adjust the front feet until the machine doesn't rock when pushed from corner to corner. Use a spirit level.

3. Items in the Drum (Coins, Keys)

Sound: Clanking, rattling
Cause: Foreign objects caught between the drum and door seal
Fix: Check the drum and door seal gap. Run a quick cycle with the machine empty to flush anything out.

4. Worn Drum Bearings

Sound: Rumbling, roaring that gets louder as spin speed increases
Cause: Bearings at the back of the drum wear out over time
Fix: Requires professional repair. If the machine is older than 7–8 years, replacement may be more cost-effective.

5. Worn Shock Absorbers or Springs

Sound: Knocking, excessive movement
Cause: Shock absorbers dampen drum movement during spin — they wear out
Fix: Professional repair required

6. Loose Counterweights

Sound: Loud banging
Cause: The concrete weight blocks that stabilise the drum can come loose
Fix: Professional repair required

When to Repair vs Replace

If your machine is under 5 years old, repair is usually worth it. Over 8 years old with bearing or drum issues — replacement is often better value. We can help you assess which option makes more sense. Call (02) 9757 4888.