The Kenmore Front-Loading Washer Makes a Clunking Noise When Spinning
- When you overload your washing machine, the laundry can get tangled together. In some instances, it can become tightly wrapped in a knot or ball. When this occurs, it creates a clunking sound as it bounces off the washer sides during the spin cycle. Prevent overloading the machine in the future to eliminate the loud noises it causes.
- If the clunking noise sounds like metal against metal, the culprit may be the items you are washing. Try to remember what items you have in the washer. Things with big metal buckles, buttons, zippers and snaps can all hit the inside of the washer during the spinning cycle. The more of these things in the washer, the louder the noise. Sometimes it only takes one really large metal buckle, such as on a sweater or jacket, to bang up against the side of the washer and make the clunking noise. This is a normal noise that you should expect when washing these items.
- If your washer is sitting on a floor that is not solid, like a spongy carpeted floor, it can create noise. This is because the surface space causes some vibration when the machine is in use. As the machine vibrates on the floor surface, it may sound like a clunking noise. Apart from moving the washer to a more solid surface, such as a concrete floor, you can try resolving this problem by sliding piece of plywood under the washer to give it some stability. Measure the floor space, so you can get plywood that fits under both the washer and dryer so that they are the same height.
- An additional cause of the clunking noise may be that the legs of the washer are uneven. The legs are adjustable so that the washer can sit level. If it is not sitting level when it is in use, the machine will rock back and forth. It may even bump into the dryer, the wall or something else nearby in the laundry room. The vibration can sound like a clunking noise as the machine wobbles back and forth. Using a wrench to adjust the legs, when the machine is not in use, will prevent this.
Overloaded
Metal Items
Flooring
Not Sitting Level
Source...