Electrolux Washing Machine: grinding noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a grinding noise from your Electrolux washing machine? This unsettling metallic sound often occurs during wash or spin cycles, particularly at high speeds. It may indicate foreign objects caught in the drum or potential issues with the motor bearings, leading to rough drum rotation and vibration.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

  • Electrolux official troubleshooting guides do not list grinding specifics but recommend checking load balance and machine leveling as initial steps

Possible Causes

Foreign object caught in drum or pump

How to Identify: Grinding noise that may change with drum rotation; small objects visible in drum holes or recovered from pump filter; noise may lessen when drum manually rotated slowly

Part: Drum gap or drain pump filter

Faulty motor or motor bearings

How to Identify: Grinding noise coinciding with motor operation, possibly with slow spin, motor humming, or intermittent power issues

Part: Motor assembly

DIY Solutions

Check and remove foreign objects

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight, towel, small grabber or pliers
  1. Unplug machine and open door
  2. Manually rotate drum and inspect inside for visible objects
  3. Remove foreign objects from drum holes or between drum and tub
  4. Access and clean drain pump filter, removing debris
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before inspecting drum or opening filter access

Inspect and replace drive belt

Advanced 60-90 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, socket set, replacement belt
  1. Unplug and access back panel
  2. Locate drive belt and inspect for wear or damage
  3. Remove old belt and install new belt ensuring proper tension
  4. Reassemble and test machine
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected; proper belt alignment critical

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings

Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

Motor assembly repair or replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Grinding persists after removing obvious debris
Drum feels rough or loose when rotated by hand
Signs of water leakage or seal failure

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check pockets before washing: Foreign object related grinding
    Frequency: every load
  • Clean drain pump filter: Debris buildup causing grinding and drainage issues
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Washing Machine grinding noise?
Common causes include foreign objects caught in the drum or pump and faulty motor bearings.
How do I fix Electrolux Washing Machine grinding noise myself?
Check for foreign objects in the drum and inspect the drive belt for wear; ensure to unplug the machine first.
How much does it cost to fix grinding noise?
Professional repairs can range from $150 to $400 depending on whether you need drum bearings or motor assembly replacement.
When should I call a technician for grinding noise?
If DIY fixes do not resolve the issue, or if the noise persists, it's time to consult a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged bearings
  • Foreign objects in the drum or pump
  • Loose or damaged drive belt

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace worn bearings. To do this, unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and check the bearings for wear. If they are damaged, replace them with new ones. Reassemble the machine and test for noise.

  2. Check for foreign objects. Open the door and inspect the drum for any items that may be stuck. Also, check the pump filter for debris. Remove any foreign objects found and reassemble the machine.

  3. Examine and replace the drive belt. Unplug the machine, remove the front panel, and check the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace the belt and reassemble the machine.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Washing machine making grinding noise! Help!

Community Discussions

grinding noise

Check the spin basket for looseness and inspect the door boot for burnt marks, indicating a bad spider arm.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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