When a washer makes a buzzing sound, the most common fault is that there is something stuck in the pump and blocking it. The buzzing sound occurs as the drain pump tries to run but something is blocking it and the “buzzing” noise occurs. As a blocked pump is the most probable cause for a buzzing washer, there can also be a other problems that can cause this noise. We will list the most common reasons for this problem beginning with the most probable first. If your washing machine is NOT buzzing but instead your washer is not spinning or draining during the cycle, then a different troubleshooting method is needed.
MOST PROBABLE REASONS FOR A BUZZING SOUND IN WASHING MACHINE:
- Blocked Drain Pump: An object has lodged itself inside of the drain pump. There can be items such as a small sock, a coin, a toothpick, or something small in your clothes pockets when you wash them. These items can fall out of the pockets and end up in the drain pump causing it to become blocked and make the buzzing noise you hear. Here is an audio recording of a blocked drain pump. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this problem is to take the washing machine apart and open up the pump and remove the object causing the buzz sound. To find directions to take your specific washing machine apart, do a Google search for Make and Model of your washer.
- Motor Coupling Broken: The motor coupling has broke and the motor turns but nothing happens. This will also cause a buzzing noise which can also be described as a vibrating noise. To fix this issue you will need to take the washer apart. Here is a video to show you what to look for if your washer motor coupler is broken. Once you know that the motor coupling is broken and needs replaced, we recommend ordering the part online. Simply do a search for “washing machine model motor coupler” and you will find the part needed for your specific washing machine.
- Washer Drive Block Loose or Worn: The washer drive block is not tight or has worn out. The part will need to be replaced to fix this problem. Here is an audio clip of a worn washer drive block to help you to diagnose that this is your actual issue. To further assist you with this issue, here is a video to show you how to replace a washer drive block.
- Worn Agitator Dogs: When these are worn, you will hear a clicking or crunching noise. These small plastic parts are used to turn the top of the agitator in one direction. This pushes the clothes down to the bottom part of the agitator to be washed. Here is what your washing machine will sound like when the agitator dog ears are worn. To replace these, order them online (about $5 bucks) and then install them in your washer. Here is a video to show you how to remove and replace washing machine agitator dogs.
- Washer Motor Burned Out: This may result in a buzzing noise depending on circumstances. The way to tell a bad motor is a distinct burning smell. This usually means your washing machine is old and the motor has died from old age. You may need to start thinking about buying a new washing machine. if that is not possible, you can buy a new washer motor for around $100 and install it yourself. Here is video showing how to remove a washing machine motor.
CAUTION: When troubleshooting your washing machine problems, always be safe by unplugging the machine and using common sense. Think SAFETY!
The website RepairClinic has thousands of parts for your washing machine and has many troubleshooting methods to fix any appliance. Another DIY appliance website is AppliancePartsPros which can assist you greatly when needing washing machine parts.
If you have another probable cause for a buzzing washing machine, please leave a comment below to assist others.
When I plug my Amana washer (NTW4605EWO) in, after about ten seconds it starts humming at the bottom near the motor. The lights don’t come on and the water does not flow through the solenoid valves. I replaced the valve set but no improvement. I removed the exit hose from the pump, removed the footvalve and rotated the pump with my finger. It does not appear to be obstructed. I need advice on the next step. The tub springs are weak and the washer has run out of balance recently. I was waiting for tub springs to arrive when this humming problem came about.
My stackable Whirlpool washer and dryer (age: Feb 2018) the washer has a buzzing sound. It was loud at first then I was able to do three loads with no problem it was still buzzing but not as loud. I did a separate load with only 2 cups of vinegar and now it stop buzzing. Could that have fixed it?
My Kitchenaid washer only hums in the wash cycle. If I allow it to continue to hum the washer will shut down completely after a few minutes. I’m guessing that this a safety function to prevent further damage. If, while the washer is still humming, I shut the machine down manually, I can turn the dial to spin, it will spin and drain like it should. I’m thinking it is the motor?? Your thoughts.
Maytag gas dryer #dg512. Circa 1989.
Other than a belt replacement several yrs ago, solid – “like they used to build.”
Last year replaced a pr of solenoids when heat element was cutting off prematurely & has since been fine other than a buzzing from same area (similar to when timed out,) that neither solenoid fixed apparently. Only buzzes during heating flame part of cycle. Other wise all works perfectly. Selling house & would like to quiet it down. Happy Holidays too !
My Whirlpool washer #LSR8233JQ0 will fill with water.
Then nothing but a buzz coming from control panel.
Ive encountered this before.
Last time “start capacitor” failed.
I had it tested.
It was registering 366mf.
Technician said it was good and strong.
I replaced the connections to the capacitor as everything was rusty.
Same thing…just buzzing.
So removed pump and spun motor by hand.
It works!
It agitates.
It will complete wash cycle and then stop again and buzz behind control panel.
I tried setting it on spin after all water drained out.
Spun motor in opposite direction, nothing.
Im perplexed.
If motor works?
Capacitor is fine?
What’s the problem?
This “how to” helped me so much. Thank you!
I have an Amana washing machine. The lights on the washers doesn’t come on. When I push start,all it does make a humming sound. But, water won’t fill the basket. The agitator doesn’t move.
Best Advice I can give: Is the water on??? I’m so absent-minded, I personally forgot to turn the water back on after pulling the washer out to do some duct repair on my dryer.
Thank you so much for this information. What would have been a very expensive call-out turned out to be an elastic band caught around the impellers in the drain pump! Thanks again :)
Jim Pike,
Could be a number of things causing the humming. We would suggest opening the washer up safely and checking to see if there is any obvious issues. Can you give us the Model number of your KitchenAid Superba washer? We can then help you with your issue in more detail.
-RR