Washing machines are the backbone of every clean pair of clothes in every household.
However, these helpful machines could also run into problems that you never prepared for.
And… out of the hundreds of components that put together a washing machine, your washing machine drum is the most important.
If the drum fails to perform well, your machine will very likely break down.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the common problems with washing machine drums and also provide you with some tips and tricks to help you resolve the problem yourself.
Let’s get started.
The 5 Common Drum Problems
1. Unbalanced Loads and Drum Misalignment
One of the most common issues affecting washing machine drums is unbalanced loads.
When clothes inside the drum are unevenly distributed, it can cause the machine to shake violently during the spin cycle.
This leads to an unsettling racket – along with posing a risk of damage to other internal components.
One of the best ways to address this is to always ensure a balanced load before starting the washing cycle.
Mix large and small items, and distribute them evenly around the drum to prevent imbalance. If the problem persists, it could indicate a more serious issue like drum misalignment.
2. Excessive Noise
Your washing machine should operate with a gentle hum.
The gentle hum means a smooth operation – signalling a seamless cleaning process.
However, if you find yourself wincing at the noise coming from your machine, it could be a symptom of a deeper issue. Excessive noise during operation is often linked to problems with the drum, such as damaged or worn-out bearings.
Worn-out drum bearings can lead to a loud, rumbling noise during the spin cycle.
To check for this issue, manually rotate the drum when the machine is turned off. If you hear a grinding or rumbling sound, it’s a clear indicator that the bearings may need replacement.
While replacing drum bearings can be a more complex task, it’s crucial for maintaining the overall functionality and longevity of your washing machine.
3. Leaks and Water Spillage
Discovering a puddle of water around your washing machine is undoubtedly cause for concern.
We’ve already talked about washing machine leaks extensively.
Leaks and water spillages can be a result of various drum-related issues, such as damaged door seals or tub gaskets.
These components play a crucial role in preventing water from escaping the drum during the washing process.
Inspect the door seal for any visible signs of wear, tears, or mould growth. If you detect any issues, replace the seal promptly to prevent further leakage.
4. Drum Not Spinning
If your washing machine drum refuses to spin it can bring your laundry routine to a standstill.
This issue may be attributed to a malfunctioning drive belt, a faulty motor, or worn-out carbon brushes.
The drive belt connects the motor to the drum, facilitating the spinning motion. Over time, belts can become stretched or damaged, leading to a loss of tension and subsequent spinning issues.
Inspect the drive belt for any visible signs of wear, such as fraying or cracks. If you notice any damage, replace the belt promptly to restore proper functionality.
Additionally, check the motor and motor coupling for signs of wear or damage. If either of these components appear to be faulty, a replacement may be necessary to get your washing machine back in working order.
5. Drum Fails To Shake (Or Shakes Too Much)
Drum shaking is a key phase in the washing process, where the drum moves back and forth to thoroughly clean your clothes.
If your washing machine’s drum fails to shake properly, it could be due to a malfunctioning agitator, a worn-out drive spindle, or issues with the shock absorbers.
On the other hand, if it shakes too much, it could be because of worn-out drum bearings that can lead to a loud, rumbling noise during the spin cycle.
Inspect the drum for any visible damage or obstruction. If the agitator is in good condition, check the drive spindle and shock absorbers for signs of wear.
If your drive spindle is worn out, it can very likely lead to excessive shaking, while shock absorber issues may require professional attention. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs will ensure that your washing machine continues to deliver optimal performance.
Conclusion
The drum of a washing machine plays a pivotal role in the efficiency and effectiveness of the entire laundry process.
Understanding and addressing common drum problems is essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of your washing machine.
But if the problem is persistent and you want expert help, that’s where Georgi’s Services comes in.
You can get in contact with us directly and we would be happy to assist you.
We highly recommend checking out our prices too.