Why Is My Washing Machine Knocking?
Let’s be real: a washing machine making knocking sounds is about as welcome as a splash of cold water on a sleepy morning. That ominous bang, thud, or knock usually means your machine is trying to tell you it’s not feeling so fresh and balanced. Most commonly, the knocking noise comes from:
- Uneven leveling of the washing machine on the floor
- An unbalanced laundry load causing the tub to slam inside the drum
- Worn suspension rods or shock absorbers
- Damaged tub bearings or drive pulleys
- Objects trapped in the drum or pump area
Each culprit has its own story — and fix. Ready to get your washer knocking-free without calling the repair pro? Buckle up!
Step 1: Level That Beast
Imagine trying to do yoga on a wobbly surface. Your washing machine feels the same — and it makes a ruckus when out of balance. According to Maytag’s official guide, improper leveling is a top reason for knocking sounds.
Here’s the fix:
- Use a carpenter’s level on top of your washer — front to back and side to side.
- Adjust the machine’s four feet by twisting them clockwise or counterclockwise until the washer is perfectly balanced.
- Lock the feet securely with the locking nuts to prevent them from moving during cycles.
Pro tip: A shaking or rocking washer screams for leveling. Don’t skip this vital step, or the knocking will just keep coming back.
Step 2: Balance Your Load Like a Pro
Overstuffing your washer or tossing in one massive item like a king-sized comforter alone? That’s a recipe for disaster. When the load is uneven, the tub wobbles violently, making those eerie knocking or banging sounds during the spin cycle.
Smart balancing tips include:
- Mix large and small items to distribute weight evenly.
- Avoid washing a single heavy item on its own; add towels or smaller clothes to balance.
- Split very bulky loads into smaller batches to keep the tub stable.
If you really want to dive deep into load balancing myths and hacks, we’ve covered how to fix washing machine jumping — which often stems from the same root cause.
Step 3: Inspect Suspension Rods and Shock Absorbers
If your washer is older, those suspension rods or shocks might be auditioning for a horror movie role with loud knocking screams. These components help keep the tub stable during the wild spin cycle, absorbing the shakes and bangs.
Signs they’re toast:
- Loud knocking or banging noises during spin
- Washer cabinet shakes excessively
- Drum moves erratically when wiggled by hand
To fix this, simply get replacement suspension rods or shocks designed for your model. You can follow a step-by-step guide on this YouTube video for how to replace them yourself without nagging your wallet too much.
Want to save on parts? The India and global Amazon links have affordable options.
Step 4: Check Tub Bearings and Drive Pulley
Deep inside the mechanical heart, worn tub bearings and drive pulleys can cause serious banging and knocking noises. Bearings are what allow your tub to spin smoothly, and when they start failing, it’s like nails on a chalkboard — but louder.
Here’s how to tell if they’re guilty:
- Loud knocking increases with spin speed
- Drum feels loose or wobbly when moved by hand
- Unusual grinding or metal-on-metal sounds
Replacing tub bearings and drive pulleys is a bit more advanced. However, handy DIYers can tackle it with the right tools and a clear guide — like this iFixit explanation. Otherwise, consider calling in a pro to prevent further damage.
Step 5: Search for Foreign Objects
Sometimes the culprit is something you never dreamed would mess with your laundry—the forgotten coin, rogue sock, or pesky button stuck between the drum and the tub can cause loud knocks during cycles.
Be a detective:
- Check inside the drum carefully for trapped items
- Look under the agitator or inside the pump area
- Inspect the drain pump filter for debris
Removing any foreign objects will instantly silence those annoying knocks and bangs.
Step 6: Test Your Fixes
Now that you’ve tackled leveling, load balancing, and inspected all the likely troublemakers, give your washing machine a test run.
Listen closely during the agitator and spin cycles. If the knocking has vanished or seriously reduced, congratulations! You’ve mastered the fix. If not, it might be time to dive deeper or consult a technician.
Bonus Tips to Keep Your Washer Knock-Free
- Always level your washer after moving it, especially after delivery.
- Balance your laundry load — don’t mix heavy and super light loads alone.
- Perform regular maintenance checks on suspension rods, bearings, and belts.
- Keep the drum clear of forgotten objects by checking pockets before washing.
If you want more help on washing machine issues, check out guides like how to fix washing machine filled with water for related problems.
Final Words
Washing machine knocking noises might feel like a mystery worthy of Sherlock Holmes, but with a little patience and the right approach, you can fix it in your own laundry room. Level your machine, balance your loads, check suspension rods and bearings, and you’ll have peace and quiet restored in no time.
Roll up your sleeves and show that noisy washer who’s boss.