What can you do about a noisy washing machine?
You solve noise from your washing machine by levelling the machine, spreading the laundry properly and placing the machine steadily. If the noise persists, check the bearings and shock absorbers, or choose a washing machine cabinet from Washtower® that directs vibrations down through the cabinet-in-cabinet construction and so provides more stability and less noise.
Where does the noise come from?
Before you get started, it helps to know which type of noise your washing machine is making. Every sound has a different cause:
Banging or wobbling sound: usually caused by an uneven installation or an unbalanced drum
Whining or squealing sound: often a sign of worn bearings, especially at high spin speeds
Ticking sound at the bottom: can point to a blocked filter or loose parts
Knocking sound: usually indicates worn shock absorbers
Immediate solutions for less noise
These practical steps reduce the noise straight away:
Level the machine: use the feet under your washing machine and a spirit level to get the machine completely horizontal. An uneven machine is the main cause of banging noises. Tip: always screw the washing machine's own feet in as far as possible (fully) for maximum stability within the recess.
Spread the laundry properly: an overfull drum, or conversely one heavy item such as a duvet, causes imbalance during the spin cycle. Spread large items over several washes.
Check the transport bolts: on a new washing machine the transport bolts at the back always have to be removed. Forget this and the machine will make an extreme amount of noise.
Clean the filter: a blocked filter can cause ticking noises. Clean the filter regularly according to your machine's manual.
A steady installation for structurally less noise
The way your washing machine stands has a big influence on the noise level. A washing machine cabinet provides a stable base in which vibrations are directed down through the cabinet-in-cabinet construction. That means less noise and more comfort while you wash.
The washing machine stands in the cabinet on a continuous base plate. The distinctive cabinet-in-cabinet construction dampens vibration effectively and stops your washing machine from walking or banging; the machines always stand steadily. Every cabinet has an anti-tip device as standard for extra safety.
The cabinet has 5 cm of space at the back as standard and can be placed about 5 cm further from the wall with the wall brackets, leaving roughly 10 cm for the connections. Ventilation grilles provide enough air circulation around the machine.
Which setup suits your situation?
Limited space
Solution: dryer on the washing machine
Benefit: saves space and offers a stable construction
Washing machine and dryer side by side
Solution: washer and dryer cabinet
Benefit: both appliances at a comfortable height
Raising the washing machine only
Solution: washing machine stand
Benefit: less bending and a stable base
Fitting out a complete laundry room
Solution: put a cabinet wall together
Benefit: a modular setup with storage
When is maintenance needed?
Some noises point to technical problems you cannot solve yourself:
Worn bearings: do you hear a whining sound at high speed? Turn the drum by hand. If you feel resistance or hear noise, the bearings probably need replacing. Contact an engineer.
Broken shock absorbers: if the drum bangs hard against the housing, the shock absorbers are worn. That calls for professional repair.
Knocking in the water pipe: you solve this with a water hammer arrester fitted into the water pipe.
Combining extra storage
Besides a stable base for your washing machine, you can make the most of the room with storage cabinets. That way you create a complete laundry room where detergent, towels and other items are neatly stored. The modular setups adapt to your room and your wishes.
Have a question, or would you like personal advice? Contact our customer service or simply put your ideal solution together using our online configurator.