Maytag Washer Sounds Like a Jet Engine

Ever wondered why your Maytag washer sometimes sounds like a jet engine ready for takeoff? You’re not alone!

When your Maytag washer starts making a noise like a jet engine, it can be quite disconcerting. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you understand why this happens and how to troubleshoot your Maytag washer.

Understanding why your Maytag washer sounds like a jet engine is the first step in resolving the issue. After all, a jet engine-like noise is a clear sign that action is needed, and swift action at that. Ignoring this sound could lead to your washer giving out sooner than you’d like.

In this troubleshooting guide, we’ll explore the potential reasons behind your Maytag washer’s roaring noise and provide you with the knowledge to effectively troubleshoot your Maytag washer at home.

Let’s dive in and discover why your Maytag washer sounds like a jet engine and how to troubleshoot it with confidence.

Why Your Maytag Washer Sounds Like a Jet Engine and How to Fix It

Possible Issue	Recommended Solution
1. Worn tub bearing	Check the tub bearing for wear or rust and replace it if necessary.
2. Failing tub seal	Inspect the tub seal for signs of wear and replace it if damaged.
3. Defective drive belt	If the drive belt is defective, remove it and install a new one.
4. Drainage problems	Address drainage issues by identifying and fixing the source of the leakage or blockage.
5. Loose concrete block	Secure any loose concrete blocks or consider repositioning the washer for stability.
6. Trapped object	Remove any foreign objects trapped in the washer drum and ensure proper load positioning.
7. Faulty motor	Examine the drive motor, and if it’s faulty, replace it with a new one.
8. Clogged vents	Clean the washer to unclog vents and maintain optimal airflow.
9. Loose parts	Inspect for loose components within the washer and secure them tightly.
10. Excessive spin speed	Adjust the spin settings to a suitable range, typically between 600-1400 RPM, and ensure the washer is on level ground.
11. Worn Shock Absorbers	If shock absorbers are worn, replace them to reduce excessive vibrations and noise during washing.

Why Does Maytag Washer Sounds Like a Jet Engine?

Here are top 11 potential reasons why your Maytag washer produces noise like an airplane preparing for takeoff:

1. Worn Tub Bearing (Most Common Reason why Maytag Washer Sounds Like Jet Engine)

The most prevalent culprit behind this unsettling noise is a worn tub bearing. When a tub bearing wears out, it can become loose, leading to vibrations within the drum, replicating the unmistakable jet engine-like sound. In some instances, a deteriorated or defective tub bearing can even cause metal components within the washer to rub against each other, intensifying the noise. Keep in mind that if the tub bearing rusts, it can produce a screeching sound.

How to Fix:

To address this concern, carefully examine the tub bearing for signs of wear or rust. If you detect either of these issues, it’s time to replace the tub bearing. Fortunately, many Maytag tub-bearing replacement kits include a new tub seal, simplifying the process.

Here’s a straightforward guide to tub bearing replacement:

1. Locate the old tub bearing, typically situated at the rear end of the outer tub (for front loaders) or underneath the tub (for top loaders).
2. Accessing the old tub bearing requires disassembling your washer.
3. Depending on the condition of the seal, you may also need to replace it. Most replacement kits conveniently include both the tub bearing and the seal.

However, keep in mind that replacing tub bearings involves dismantling the washing machine, which can be quite complex. Therefore, it’s often advisable to leave this task to professional technicians who possess the expertise required for a successful repair.

2. Failing tub seal

When a tub seal becomes faulty, it allows water to seep into the washer’s tub bearing, leading to rust. However, when the tub seal is in good condition, it effectively prevents water leakage when the Maytag washer is not in use. As tub seals deteriorate, they can produce a screeching sound akin to a jet engine, and this noise tends to become louder as the seal wears out further.

Resolving the Issue: To address this concern, begin by inspecting the tub seal for signs of wear. You’ll typically find the seal on the outer tub. If it appears worn out or if you notice rust on the tub bearing (an indicator of a leaky tub seal), it’s time to replace it.

Here’s a simplified fix:

1. Examine the tub seal located on the outer tub for any visible signs of wear or damage.
2. If the seal looks worn or if there are indications of a leaky tub seal, consider replacing it promptly.

3. Defective drive belt

Over time, your washer’s drive belt can loosen and wear down. When this happens, the washer may slip off track, often resulting in a screeching noise. This screeching sound can be an early warning sign that the drive belt is on the verge of breaking, so it’s crucial to address the issue promptly.

Resolving the Issue:

To tackle this problem, start by examining your Maytag washer’s drive belt for signs of wear. If you notice wear or damage, it’s time to replace it.

Here’s a simplified guide to replacing a defective drive belt:

1. Locate the drive belt, usually positioned near the drum.
2. Carefully unscrew and remove the old drive belt.
3. Replace it with a new one, ensuring it’s properly fitted.
4. Secure all the components by screwing everything back in place.
5. Finally, reset your Maytag washer.

4. Drainage problems

4. Sometimes, you might hear a noise that’s as loud as a jet engine coming from your plumbing. This can happen due to water leaks or clogs in your pipes.

When there are kinks or blockages in your drain lines, it can lead to increased pressure inside the pipes, causing a high-pitched screeching sound. On the other hand, pipe leaks can force water out forcefully, creating a noise similar to a jet engine.

Solution:

To resolve this issue:

1. Check all your drain pipes for leaks and clogs.
2. If you find a clog, clear it by removing the blockage.
3. Straighten out any kinks in the pipes.
4. If you discover a leaky drain hose, replace it with a new one.

5. Loose concrete block

Maytag washers are quite hefty. Their weight can sometimes make the concrete slab underneath them become unsteady.

When this happens, your washer might make a loud screeching sound that’s similar to a plane engine running. But don’t worry, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with your washer.

Solution:

Here’s what you can do:

1. Gently move the washer to inspect the condition of the concrete blocks beneath it.
2. If you find that the blocks are loose, secure them properly.
3. You can also consider repositioning the washer to a more stable spot.

6. Trapped object

Sometimes, strange noises in your washer are caused by objects getting trapped inside. Items like coins, broken zippers, and pins can rub against the washer’s parts, resulting in odd sounds, ranging from grinding to screeching.

Another common culprit for a screeching Maytag washer is clothes getting stuck during the spin cycle, creating a noise similar to a jet engine.

Solution:

Here’s what you should do:

1. If you hear a screeching sound, immediately stop the washer.
2. Check the laundry inside the tub for any trapped objects and remove them.
3. Make sure to load your clothes properly in the tub to prevent them from getting caught again.

7. Faulty motor

Another thing to investigate is the washer’s drive motor. A faulty motor can create strange and loud noises, similar to a jet engine. It might also be the reason your Maytag washer isn’t starting properly.

When the motor malfunctions, it can spin too quickly and rub against the washer’s walls, resulting in a noise resembling a jet engine.

Solution:

If you notice that the drive motor isn’t properly turning the drive belt, consider replacing the motor to resolve the issue.

8. Clogged vents – Maytag Washer Motor Sounds Like Jet Engine

8. Your washer needs proper ventilation to stay cool and work efficiently. If the vents get clogged with dirt, the washer can overheat, leading to a screeching noise.

To prevent this, it’s a good idea to regularly clean your washer to keep its vents clear.

To resolve this issue:

1. Clean the washer’s air vents to remove dirt and any blockages. You can use a product like True Fresh Washer Cleaner for best results.
2. This will ensure that the air can circulate freely, keeping your washer cool and running smoothly.

9. Loose parts

9. When there are loose parts inside your washer, they can move around randomly, causing friction and sometimes getting stuck. This can not only damage your washing machine but also generate strange noises like screeches.

Solution:

1. Carefully inspect your washer to identify any loose components.
2. Securely fasten these loose parts in their proper places.
3. Make it a habit to check your washer regularly before each use to ensure no parts are loose. This way, you can prevent potential issues and noisy disruptions during your laundry routine.

10. Excessive spin speed

Take a moment to think about the chance that your Maytag washer might be spinning at an overly high speed, which might hint at an underlying problem.

When your washer spins at speeds exceeding 600-1400 rpm, it’s spinning too rapidly, and this can lead to peculiar noises. This situation often arises when the washer is off balance or if the settings aren’t configured correctly.

Solution:

1. Make sure to accurately adjust the washer’s spin settings, considering the type of load you’re washing.
2. Position the washer on a stable and level surface or floor to prevent it from spinning too quickly. This not only reduces noise but also avoids potential issues.

11. Worn Shock Absorbers

If your washing machine has worn shock absorbers, it can lead to excessive vibrations and noise during the wash cycle.

Solution:

Replace the worn shock absorbers with new ones to reduce noise and vibrations during operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Does a Maytag Front Load Washer Sound Like a Jet Engine?

A Maytag front load washer can sound like a jet engine due to unbalanced loads, worn or damaged parts, or incorrect spin settings. To resolve this, ensure balanced loads, inspect and replace worn parts, and set the spin settings correctly. If noise persists, follow our DIY guide for further troubleshooting and repair steps.

2. Are Maytag Washers Noisy?

Maytag washers are designed to operate quietly, but like any appliance, they can sometimes produce noise. Factors like load size, load distribution, and the washer’s condition can influence noise levels. If you find your Maytag washer consistently noisy, consider checking for unbalanced loads, worn components, or any loose parts.

3. Why Is My Maytag Washer So Loud On Spin Cycle?

The loud noise from Maytag washer during the spin cycle may be attributed to a worn-out or rusty tub bearing. To address this issue, carefully examine the condition of the tub bearing and consider replacing it if it appears to be defective. Additionally, don’t overlook the drive belt and tub sealing, as they might also show signs of wear and may require replacement to resolve the noise problem. Look into our Maytag Spin Cycle issues for more detailed guide on spin cycle problems.

4. Why Does My Washing Machine Sound Like an Engine?

If your washing machine is making sounds akin to an engine, several potential factors could be causing it. This noise might stem from issues with the tub bearing, tub seal, drive belt, or drive motor. Alternatively, forceful water leakage, blockages, air vent clogs, or loose concrete blocks could be contributing to the engine-like noise.

Final Words

When your Maytag washer sounds like a jet engine, start by inspecting the tub bearing, which might be rusty or worn out, leading to defects.

If the issue persists, examine the drive belt, motor, and tub sealing for signs of wear and tear. Additionally, consider the possibility of water leakage, clogged vents, loose concrete blocks, or parts that have come loose. To resolve these problems, follow our DIY guide for step-by-step instructions on troubleshooting and fixing your Maytag washer.