What Are the Causes of a Kenmore Washer to Make Whining Noises?

Weak Floor

• If the washer is sitting on a floor that is weak or or one that is spongy, such as a carpeted floor, it can cause noise problems. The noises occur because the washer cannot function properly when it is not sitting on a solid surface. Repairing the floor or moving the washer to a floor that is solid, such as a concrete floor, will stop these noises. This issue usually causes the noise when the washer is a new installation or when the floor has been damaged.

Foreign Objects

• As you do laundry, foreign objects can fall out of pockets or come off clothes and end up in the washer. It is possible for a foreign object, such as underwire, to get lodged in the holes of the washer tub. When this happens, it can create a scraping or whining noise during the wash cycle. The noise is a result of the item causing friction against the drum as it spins. Removing these items, if you can see them, will stop the noise. If you can’t see the items, you may need to contact a professional.

Washer Pump

• If the whining noise occurs during all cycles, the pump is the likely cause. The pump is an internal component of the washer, and as pieces dislodge or foreign objects break past the tub barrier, they can end up in the pump. Once this happens, the pump fails to work normally. The result is a whining noise. An indication that this is the problem is if the washer had not drained or spun properly since the noise started.

Motor Bearings or Transmission Gears

• The whining noise also may be an indication that the motor bearings are wearing out on the machine. This noise also may be indicative of transmissions gears in the motor slipping. These parts are internal component that can only be safely accessed by taking apart the machine. A qualified service technician can diagnose this problem and repair the internal components.