Amana Washer Makes Loud Noise When Agitating

Introduction

A loud, grinding, or clunking noise coming from your Amana washer during the agitation cycle is a common problem. It indicates that something within the washing machine’s mechanism is either loose, worn, or obstructed. Ignoring these noises can lead to further damage and potentially more costly repairs down the line. Addressing this issue promptly will not only reduce the noise but also ensure your clothes are being cleaned effectively and prevent any further damage to the appliance. Let’s get to the bottom of it!

Common Causes of Amana Washer Makes Loud Noise When Agitating

Here are some of the most frequent culprits behind those unwelcome sounds:

Loose Objects: Small items like coins, buttons, or even undergarments can get stuck between the inner and outer tubs, causing a racket.
Worn Agitator Dogs: These small plastic pieces connect the agitator to the drive shaft. When they wear down, the agitator won’t move smoothly, leading to noise.
Worn Agitator: Cracks or damage to the agitator itself can cause it to vibrate excessively and create noise.
Damaged Drive Pulley: The pulley helps transfer power to the agitator. A worn or damaged pulley can slip and cause loud sounds.
Worn Drive Belt: Similar to the pulley, a worn or cracked drive belt can slip and cause noise during agitation.
Faulty Motor Coupler: This part connects the motor to the transmission. If it breaks, it can create a loud banging noise.
Worn Tub Bearings: The bearings allow the inner tub to spin smoothly. Worn bearings cause grinding or rumbling sounds, especially during agitation and spin cycles.
Overloaded Washer: Trying to wash too many clothes at once puts excessive strain on the washer components, leading to noise.
Unlevel Washer: If the washer isn’t properly leveled, it can vibrate excessively and create noise during operation.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to pinpoint the potential issue:

Loud grinding or rumbling noise specifically during the agitation cycle.
Clunking or banging noises while the agitator is moving.
The agitator seems loose or wobbly.
You hear a squealing or screeching sound.
The washer shakes excessively during agitation.
The noise disappears during other cycles (filling, draining, spinning).
You recently washed bulky items or overloaded the machine.

How to Fix Amana Washer Makes Loud Noise When Agitating Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the noise:

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance.
Inspect for Loose Objects: Check the bottom of the wash tub and the area between the inner and outer tubs for any foreign objects. You may need to remove the agitator to access this area (see step 4).
Check for Leveling: Use a level to ensure the washer is sitting evenly on the floor. Adjust the legs as needed.
Remove the Agitator: Depending on your Amana model, you might need to remove a cap or unscrew a bolt at the top of the agitator. Once removed, lift the agitator straight up.
Inspect the Agitator: Look for cracks, chips, or signs of wear. If damaged, consider professional evaluation.
Check the Agitator Dogs: These are typically located under the agitator. Look for worn, broken, or missing dogs. They should move freely and engage properly.
Test Agitator Movement: After removing and inspecting, try moving the drive shaft by hand. It should move with some resistance, but not be frozen.
Inspect the Drive Belt (Requires Access to Washer Base): Carefully tilt the washer back (with assistance!) or remove the front panel (consult your owner’s manual) to access the drive belt. Look for cracks, wear, or looseness.
Inspect the Drive Pulley (Requires Access to Washer Base): Check for wobbling or damage. It should be securely attached.
Run a Test Cycle (with no clothes): After inspecting and potentially cleaning the areas, run a short agitation cycle to see if the noise persists.
Check Suspension Springs (Requires Access to Washer Base): Inspect the suspension springs that support the wash tub. Broken or detached springs can cause excessive movement and noise.
Reassemble the Washer: If you removed any parts, carefully reassemble them in the reverse order.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacements, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for a few minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Clean the Washer: Run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove any buildup that could be causing noise.
Relevel the Washer: Double-check the leveling of the washer, as it can shift over time.
Reduce Load Size: Avoid overloading the washer, as this puts extra strain on the components.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the noise persists after trying all the troubleshooting steps, certain parts might need replacing. Here are a few common ones:

Agitator Dogs: (Cost: $5 – $15) – These are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
Drive Belt: (Cost: $10 – $30) – A worn belt can cause significant noise and performance issues.
Motor Coupler: (Cost: $20 – $40) – If broken, this part will cause a very loud banging noise.
Tub Bearings: (Cost: $50 – $150 + Labor) – Replacing the tub bearings is a more complex repair and may be best left to a professional.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when tilting the washer, as it can be heavy and unstable. Ask for assistance.
Avoid getting water on electrical components.
If you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Socket set
Level
Work Gloves

FAQ

Q: The noise only happens when I wash heavy loads. Is this normal?
A: No, even with heavy loads, the washer should not make excessive noise. Try reducing the load size and check for loose objects.

Q: How do I know if the agitator dogs are bad?
A: If the agitator dogs are worn, the agitator will not move properly, or it may move erratically.

Q: The noise sounds like it’s coming from underneath the washer. What could that be?
A: It could be a worn drive belt, drive pulley, or a faulty motor coupler. You’ll need to access the base of the washer to inspect these parts.

Q: Can I continue using the washer if it’s making noise?
A: While you can, it’s not recommended. Continuing to use the washer with a known issue can lead to further damage and more costly repairs.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a noisy Amana washer can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve tried these steps and the noise persists, or if you are uncomfortable performing any of these repairs, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!