Noise in a Front Loader Frigidaire Bearing

Noise

• Although several components on a Frigidaire front-loading washer make noise when they wear, including the transmission and motor, the noise that a tub bearing makes is usually unmistakable. A bearing typically lets out a shrill squeak or squeal that occurs continuously throughout the agitation and spin cycles, according to Frigidaire. The noise becomes louder and more apparent with less and less grease, and it ends only when the tub is still, during filling and draining.

Washer Operation

• While you can use your Frigidaire front-loader washer with a noisy tub bearing, additional use can permanently jeopardize the bearing’s condition. Instead of simply greasing the bearing to eliminate the noise, you may have to replace the entire component, if the noise isn’t addressed within a reasonable period. Without grease, the ball portion of the joint can become misshaped, so even when lubricant is finally applied, the noise persists.

Lubricant

• Apply only a high-temperature lubricant to the tub bearing on your Frigidaire washer, because other lubricants won’t be able to tolerate the heat coming off the motor and will dry faster. You can find a high-temperature lubricant at most appliance stores that sell Frigidaire appliances or from Frigidaire directly. The lubricant is sold separately or as part of a ball bearing replacement kit.

Lubricate the Bearing

• It’s relatively easy to lubricate a noisy bearing on a front-load washer. Close the washer’s water valves, disconnect the water hoses, and drain the hoses into a nearby sink or bucket. Unplug the washer and move it out from the wall. Unscrew the screws that hold the back panel on the washer, and remove the panel. The bearing is concealed by a small plastic cover at the center of the outer tub. Lift the cover off, and add no more than two drops of lubricant to the bearing. Use a clean cloth to wipe off the excess grease, and reassemble the washer. Once the bearing is lubricated, the noise should subside. If the noise continues, the bearing is damaged and must be replaced. Due to the complexity of replacing a worn bearing, contact Frigidaire to schedule an appointment to have a technician perform the repair to guarantee it’s done correctly.