Symptoms
- High-pitched whine or grinding only when draining
- Noise stops once water is fully out
- Sound seems to come from the front bottom of the machine
- Water may still drain despite the noise
Likely causes
- CommonForeign object caught in the pump impellerA coin, button, or small item lodged in the pump can cause grinding as it tries to spin.
- CommonWorn drain pump motor bearingLike any small motor, the pump's bearing can wear out and produce noise before failing completely.
- PossiblePump impeller cracked or damagedPhysical damage to the impeller blades can cause an imbalance and noise during operation.
What to do
- Unplug the machine and access the drain pump filter, usually behind a small panel at the front bottom.
- Check for and remove any foreign objects visible in or near the pump opening.
- Spin the pump impeller by hand if accessible to feel for grinding or resistance.
- Reassemble and run a drain-only cycle to see if the noise has cleared.
- If the noise persists with no visible obstruction, the pump motor bearing itself is likely worn.
- Replace the drain pump if a persistent grinding noise continues, since pumps aren't typically repairable, just replaceable.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Towels
Washing machine drain pumpSearch: “washing machine drain pump replacement”
When to call a pro
If clearing any obstruction doesn't stop the grinding noise during drain, an appliance technician can replace the drain pump.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.