Washer Making a Clicking Noise? Here’s What It Usually Means
A clicking or ticking sound during the wash or spin cycle is one of the most common washer complaints we hear, and it almost always traces back to one of three things.
Something small caught in the pump
Coins, buttons, bra underwires and small toys are the usual suspects. This is by far the most common cause of a clicking washer, and often the cheapest to put right, since it can be nothing more than clearing the pump filter.
A worn drive belt or pulley
On older top-load machines in particular, a belt that has started to wear or slip produces a rhythmic clicking or slapping sound, and it is usually most obvious during the spin cycle.
A failing motor coupler or bearing
Less common, but if the clicking comes with grinding, or the drum feels loose when you move it by hand, a worn coupler or tub bearing becomes more likely. This is the one worth having looked at sooner rather than later, before it turns into something bigger.
What to check yourself first
Most washers have an accessible pump filter, often behind a small panel low down on the front of the machine. If you are comfortable opening it, five minutes spent checking for a lodged object is worthwhile before assuming a bigger repair. If clearing the filter does not stop the noise, or it is getting louder or joined by grinding, that is the point to get a technician out rather than keep running loads. A small pump or bearing problem left alone rarely stays small.
Is it worth fixing?
If you are not sure whether the machine is worth repairing at all, our repair-or-replace guide walks through the 50% rule and typical washer lifespans.
Washer clicking and not stopping? Book a washer repair or give us a call. We cover Fargo, West Fargo and Moorhead, same day in most cases.