Frigidaire Washing Machine: popping noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Hearing a popping noise from your Frigidaire washing machine during operation can be concerning. This unusual sound may indicate issues such as an imbalanced load, foreign objects inside the drum, or worn internal components. Addressing these problems promptly can help prevent further damage and ensure your washer runs smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Frigidaire Models

  • Official Frigidaire guide mentions adjusting leveling to reduce noise but does not detail popping specific issues

Possible Causes

Laundry load imbalance causing drum banging or popping during spin

How to Identify: Popping occurs during spin cycles, especially when heavy or unevenly distributed clothes are present

Part: Drum / load distribution

Foreign objects (coins, small items) in the drum or pump

How to Identify: Popping or metallic noises coincide with tumbler rotation; objects may be seen when visually inspecting the drum or drain pump area

Part: Drum interior / drain pump

Worn or failing internal components (bearings, suspension, belt)

How to Identify: Noise persists irrespective of load; may increase over time or occur during agitation and spin; may sound mechanical rather than load-shift sounds

Part: Bearings / suspension rods / drive belt

Washer not level leading to drum impact sounds

How to Identify: Machine visibly rocks or vibrates; popping occurs as drum contacts casing or suspension

Part: Leveling legs / frame support

DIY Solutions

Redistribute and balance the laundry load

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Stop the washer mid-cycle
  2. Open the drum and reposition clothes evenly around the drum
  3. Avoid washing only one heavy item alone (e.g., single towel)
  4. Restart and observe noise changes
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is stopped before reaching inside

Check for and remove foreign objects

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight, Screwdriver (if checking pump)
  1. Turn off and unplug washer
  2. Inspect drum interior for small objects
  3. If no objects in drum, access and inspect the drain pump area following the manual
  4. Remove any debris found
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before accessing internal parts

Level the washing machine

Easy 10-15 minutes
Tools Needed: Level tool or smartphone level
  1. Place level on top of washer
  2. Adjust each leveling leg until washer is stable and level front-to-back and side-to-side
  3. Tighten lock nuts on leveling legs

Professional Repairs

Replace worn bearings or suspension components

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace drive belt or related internal mechanical parts

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after load balancing, foreign object removal, and leveling
Evidence of worn internal bearings (grinding)
Water leakage accompanying unusual noises

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly check pockets and drum for foreign objects: Foreign-object noise and potential internal damage
    Frequency: Each use
  • Ensure washer remains level: Vibration and noise due to imbalance
    Frequency: After moving or installation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire Washing Machine popping noise?
Common causes include load imbalance, foreign objects in the drum, or worn internal components.
How do I fix Frigidaire Washing Machine popping noise myself?
Redistribute the laundry load, check for foreign objects, and level the washer.
How much does it cost to fix popping noise?
Professional repairs can cost between $50 - $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for popping noise?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you suspect internal component failure, contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Foreign objects caught in the drum or pump
  • Worn or damaged suspension springs
  • Loose or damaged drive belt

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the drum for foreign objects. Unplug the machine, remove the drum cover, and check for items like coins or small clothing pieces. Remove any debris found.

  2. Check the suspension springs for wear or damage. If they are broken or stretched, replace them by accessing the washer's base and removing the old springs.

  3. Inspect the drive belt for looseness or damage. If loose, adjust the tension. If damaged, replace the belt by removing the front panel and accessing the motor.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Should I be worried about a popping sound from my washing ma...

Community Discussions

metallic popping noise during spin cycle

Call for service under warranty

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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