Washing machines are indispensable home appliances that greatly simplify our lives, but like all machines, they may eventually develop issues. A faulty bearing is one typical problem that can impair your washer’s performance. The essential parts that sustain the drum and enable smooth spinning are the bearings. You may notice some telltale signs that something is wrong when they begin to fail.
Unusual noise is one of the early indicators of a broken bearing. The bearings in your washing machine may be the source of loud, grinding, or rumbling noises, especially when the machine is in the spin cycle. These sounds are frequently the result of the drum’s inability to rotate correctly because of damaged bearings.
Excessive vibration is another sign. Worn-out bearings may be the cause of your washing machine shaking or moving more than usual while it’s operating. The machine may thud loudly or the entire unit may move out of position due to the strong vibrations.
In certain situations, leaks near the washing machine may also be seen. Water may leak out of the machine due to a misaligned drum caused by a broken bearing. If this occurs regularly or in significant quantities, it may be particularly troublesome.
It’s critical to take immediate action to address the issue if you notice any of these symptoms. Ignoring a failing bearing can result in more expensive repairs and more severe damage. To ensure your washing machine continues to function properly for many years to come, perform routine maintenance and pay immediate attention to any strange noises or vibrations.
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Unusual Noise | If you hear a loud rumbling or grinding noise when the washer is spinning, it might be a bearing issue. |
| Excessive Vibration | Excessive shaking or movement during the spin cycle can indicate worn-out bearings. |
| Drum Movement | If the drum moves too easily or wobbles when you try to move it by hand, the bearings may be damaged. |
| Water Leaks | Leaking water around the drum or from the bottom of the machine can sometimes be caused by a faulty bearing. |
| Increased Wear on Clothes | Clothes might come out of the washer with unusual wear or damage if the drum isn’t spinning correctly due to bearing issues. |
A broken bearing may be indicated if your washing machine starts to make odd noises, has difficulty spinning, or exhibits excessive vibrations. Numerous problems, such as uneven washing loads and loud banging sounds, can be caused by a damaged bearing. It is crucial to pay attention to how your machine is operating because if you catch these symptoms early, you may be able to avoid more costly repairs or replacements.
- Determining the malfunction without disassembling the machine
- Remove the back wall of the case
- Video on the topic
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Determining the malfunction without disassembling the machine
Of course, without taking the equipment apart, only a repair service technician can identify the problem with accuracy. Even a service center specialist won’t be able to diagnose a unit that has only recently started to malfunction without disassembling the washing machine entirely. Nonetheless, there are several indicators that point to a breakdown.
- Extraneous sounds during the working cycle. Pay close attention to the strange noise that appears during washing and rinsing. We are talking about a strange clanking sound on metal, a strong knock, a grinding sound, etc.
It is not possible to identify an abnormal noise behind the machine’s incredibly loud noises during the spin cycle, so avoid attempting to search for a breakdown during that time.
- Poor quality spin. If the bearings are damaged, the drum will not be able to reach maximum speed during the final stage of the working cycle. Due to the reduced number of revolutions per minute, the quality of the spin will suffer.
- Appearance of imbalance. Also, due to such a breakdown, the balance of the washing machine will be disturbed. If the bearing unit is really faulty, the machine will begin to swing in different directions. This is not always easy to notice, because if the unit has just begun to fail, the imbalance may be almost invisible to the naked eye.
- Damage to the cuff. Finally, it is worth examining the edges of the cuff, because if they are worn out, then this is further evidence that there may be a problem with the bearing unit.
There’s another way to examine the "home assistant" without taking it apart entirely. In order to accomplish this, unplug the gadget from the power source, open the hatch, reach inside the drum, and place three fingers on the top edge of the drum. The drum must then be swung so that there is no play between it and the tank as it swings on the springs. Should you sense play during these manipulations, the unit is already in the process of failing.
Lastly, you can attempt to rotate the drum as hard as you can until it starts to rotate reasonably freely and produces a faint hum. The bearings urgently need to be replaced if you experience a beating or even hear an unpleasant clank in place of a faint hum. This could be the result of normal wear and tear from regular use of the washing machine or a manufacturing defect.
Remove the back wall of the case
In the event that no overt indications of damage are present, you may attempt to identify the issue by partially disassembling the washing machine. Time will be saved, and proof that the bearing actually needs to be replaced will be found. How can I quickly check the element?
- Disconnect the unit from the power supply, water supply and sewerage.
- Move it away from the wall to ensure free access to the rear wall.
- Remove the rear panel of the machine.
- Carefully inspect the rear wall of the tank.
It is acceptable to remove the drive belt in order to precisely identify the breakdown.
There will nearly always be corrosion and a grease leak if the bearing assembly starts to fail. Thus, the bearings require immediate replacement if the tank’s back wall has visible grease traces and rusty streaks. Do not rush to put home appliances back where they belong because it is not advised to use them in this state.
Early detection of the symptoms of a broken bearing in your washing machine can help you avoid expensive repairs and prolong the life of the machine. During the spin cycle, if you hear loud, rumbling noises or feel excessive vibrations, these could be obvious signs of bearing problems. Red flags might also include odd drum movements or a discernible decline in washing performance.
When you notice these signs, you should take immediate action to stop additional harm and save money on more involved repairs. Your washing machine can continue to operate smoothly and effectively with routine maintenance and awareness of these warning indicators.
In the end, timely bearing replacement will maintain your washing machine in optimal condition and ultimately save you time, money, and trouble. To properly diagnose and resolve the issue, it is always best to consult a professional if you are unsure about the problem.
