The Washing Machine Sent an SOS: How to Understand What’s Breaking Right Now

If your washing machine starts making noise, fails to fill or drain water, or displays error codes, it’s important not to ignore these warning signs.

05:39 02 April 2025

A washing machine is one of the most heavily used household appliances. We rarely think about its condition until it suddenly starts making noise, refuses to drain water, or unexpectedly stops mid-cycle. Many owners don’t know what to do in such situations—should they wait and hope the problem resolves itself or call a technician immediately? Based on my experience, most breakdowns can be detected early if you pay attention to the signs. Often, small malfunctions turn into serious problems simply because they were ignored.

I have worked with different washing machine models, from basic to high-tech, and I can confirm: the more complex the device, the more important it is to detect failures early. Sometimes, a problem can be solved in just a few minutes, such as by cleaning the filter or checking the hose. However, when it comes to mechanical or electronic failures, delaying repairs is a bad idea. Companies like Appliance Repair Expert know how to quickly diagnose and fix malfunctions without unnecessary expenses. But before calling a specialist, it’s worth understanding what the issue might be.

Alarming Noises and Drum Knocking

If your washing machine has started making unusual noises, this is the first sign that you should check its operation. One of the most common noises is a dull knocking during the spin cycle. This is often caused by worn-out drum bearings. When they deteriorate, the drum moves unevenly, hitting the machine’s casing. If the bearings are not replaced in time, they can completely fail, and the repair will become significantly more expensive.

I’ve encountered cases where owners noticed a noise but continued using the machine. The result—drum jamming and damage to the tub. If you hear an unusual knocking sound, check whether any small objects have gotten stuck between the tub and the drum. Sometimes, coins, bra wires, or buttons slip into gaps and start rattling. If the knocking persists after an inspection, it’s best to call a technician immediately.

Another common issue is a high-pitched squealing sound when the drum rotates. This may be due to a worn-out drive belt. If the belt stretches or starts to fray, the machine may slip during spinning, creating an unpleasant sound. You can check the belt by removing the back panel, but if it’s damaged, it’s best to have a specialist replace it.

Not Draining or Not Filling with Water

If the machine won’t drain water, the first thing to check is the pump filter. In most cases, it gets clogged with hair, lint, coins, and other small objects. The filter is usually located at the bottom of the front panel, and cleaning it is the first step in troubleshooting drainage issues.

If the filter is clean but the water still won’t drain, the issue may be with the drain pump. Sometimes, the pump fails, but more often, the cause is a clogged drain hose. I once visited a customer whose machine wouldn’t drain, and it turned out that the drain hose had a blockage made of detergent residue and debris. Simply flushing the hose with hot water solved the problem.

If the machine won’t fill with water, check the inlet hose and water supply valve. Sometimes, the filters at the valve’s entrance become clogged, especially if the water supply has a high mineral content. If the hoses are fine but water still won’t enter, the issue might be with the valve itself or the control board. In such cases, a technician’s help is necessary.

Error Code on the Display: What Do They Mean?

Modern washing machines have self-diagnosis systems, and if an error code appears on the display, it helps pinpoint the issue faster. Here are some common codes and their meanings:

• E1 – Water intake problem (check the water tap, hoses, and filter).
• E2 – Drainage issue (clogged filter, hose, or pump failure).
• E3 – Drum imbalance (redistribute the laundry evenly).
• E4 – Overload (too many clothes in the drum).
• E5/E6 – Heating element malfunction.
• E10, E20, E30 – Errors related to the electronic control board.

Sometimes, an error occurs due to a temporary glitch, so you can try resetting the machine by unplugging it for 10-15 minutes and then turning it back on. If the error persists, it’s a sign that diagnostics are required.

When DIY Repairs Are Dangerous

Not all malfunctions can be fixed on your own. I’ve seen cases where people tried to disassemble electronic modules or replace pumps without the necessary knowledge, only to make things worse. Tampering with a washing machine’s wiring is especially dangerous since it contains high-voltage capacitors that can deliver an electric shock even after being unplugged.

Do not attempt to:

• Replace the electronic control board—without proper diagnostics, it’s easy to damage new components.
• Disassemble the motor—it contains many complex parts, and improper handling can break key components.
• Solder wires or replace the heating element without checking with a multimeter.

If you’re unsure about the cause of the problem or don’t have the right tools, it’s best to call a professional.

How to Extend Your Washing Machine’s Lifespan

To avoid frequent breakdowns, follow these guidelines:

• Do not overload the drum—this wears out the bearings and drive belt.
• Use soft water or descaling agents to prevent issues with the heating element.
• Clean the pump filter and drain hose every 2-3 months.
• Install the machine on a level surface to prevent excessive vibrations and knocking.

In my experience, I’ve seen washing machines last 15 years without major repairs just because their owners took care of them. On the other hand, some newer models failed after just a couple of years due to improper use.

If your washing machine starts making noise, fails to fill or drain water, or displays error codes, it’s important not to ignore these warning signs. Some issues can be resolved on your own, such as cleaning the filter or checking the hoses. However, if the problem involves mechanical or electronic failures, it’s best to trust the professionals. Timely repairs will extend the lifespan of your appliance and prevent you from having to buy a new machine too soon.