If your top load washing machine drum has dropped, it is likely because of bad suspension rods. Suspension rods are the components that support the drum and keep it balanced. If they break or loosen, the drum will drop and cause shaking and noise. To fix it, you need to replace the suspension rods or put them back in place. You can follow the instructions and diagrams in this article or watch this video to learn how to do it yourself.
In this blog post, we will explain the common reasons why your top load washing machine drum has dropped and how you can fix it yourself with some simple steps. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this issue and give you some tips on how to prevent it from happening again.
Why Has My Top Load Washing Machine Drum Dropped?
The reason why your top load washing machine drum has dropped is that certain components in your washer that support the drum have undergone wear and tear causing the drum to fall. These include:
- Broken suspension rods: Suspension rods are the components of a washing machine that hold the tub to the base of the washer. They also ensure the suspension of the tub from the top. Inevitably, these suspension rods undergo wear and tear and can get broken or lose their elasticity. Broken suspension rods may displace out of position, causing the drum to shift from its original position. A broken suspension rod will also cause your washer to shake and not spin properly.
- Worn-out bearings: Bearings are small metallic balls that are held together in a round track and are located at the base of the washer and support the tub. Like suspension rods, bearings undergo wear and tear and may even collapse at a point. When that happens, it may cause your drum to drop a few millimeters or inches down. In that case, you will need to inspect and replace the bearings.
- Damaged shock absorbers: Shock absorbers are devices that absorb the vibrations and movements of the tub during the wash cycle. They are attached to the base of the washer and the tub. Shock absorbers can get damaged due to overloading, improper installation, or age. Damaged shock absorbers can cause your drum to drop or bounce excessively.
These are the common reasons why your top load washing machine drum has dropped. Depending on the type, brand, and model of your washer, there may be other causes as well. However, these are the most likely ones that you can check and fix yourself.
How To Fix A Top Load Washing Machine Drum That Has Dropped?
To fix a top load washing machine drum that has dropped You can Follow This Step Below:
- Unplug the washing machine: Before you start working on your washer, make sure to unplug it from the power source and turn off the water supply. This will prevent any electric shocks or water leaks while you are fixing your washer.
- Remove the top cover of the washing machine: Unscrew and lift off the washer cover to access the inside parts.
- Find the washer drum and remove it: Disconnect wires and hoses and lift out the drum with help.
- Inspect the washer drum for looseness: After removing the washer drum, inspect it for any signs of looseness or damage. If you notice any cracks, dents, or holes in the drum, you may need to replace it with a new one.
- Inspect the washing machine’s top load: Next, inspect the top load of your washing machine where the drum is attached. You need to check if the top load is loose or damaged. If it is, you need to tighten or replace it with a new one.
- Check drum bearings, shock absorbers, and suspension rods for damage: Check and replace the bearings, shocks, and rods if damaged.
- Make sure your washing machine is level by adjusting its legs and using a spirit level: Your washer drum may drop if it’s not level. Adjust the legs and use a spirit level to fix it.
- Inspect and replace broken suspension springs, snubber rings, dampening straps, and drive bearings if needed: Finally, check the components that support the drum from the top. These are the suspension springs, snubber rings, dampening straps, and drive bearings. Inspect them for wear, corrosion, or breakage. Replace them if damaged.
How To Prevent Your Top Load Washing Machine Drum From Dropping?
To prevent your top load washing machine drum from dropping in the future, you need to take care of your washer and maintain it regularly. Here are some tips on how to prevent your top load washing machine drum from dropping:
- Do not overload your washer with too many or heavy clothes. This can stress or break the components that support the drum.
- Use the right detergent and amount for your washer type. This can prevent suds or residue that can clog or damage the components that support the drum.
- Clean your washer regularly by running a self-clean cycle or using a washer cleaner product. This can remove dirt and debris that can affect your washer and damage the components that support the drum.
- Inspect and replace any worn-out or damaged parts on your washer. This can prevent them from failing and causing the drum to drop.
By following these tips, you can prevent your top load washing machine drum from dropping and extend its lifespan.
How do I know if my washing machine drum is damaged?
One way to know if your washing machine drum is damaged is to listen for any grinding noise while the drum is turning. This could indicate that the bearings are worn or faulty.
You can also check the movement of the drum by pushing it from the inside. If it moves away from the door seal too much, the bearings may need replacing.
Another sign of drum damage is if there are any cracks, dents, or holes in the drum itself or the drum paddle. You can inspect the drum visually and feel for any rough edges or sharp points.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you notice that your top load washing machine drum has dropped below its normal position, do not panic. This is a common problem that You can fixed it easily with some simple steps. You just need to identify the cause of the problem and replace any damaged or worn-out parts that support the drum.
FAQ
How much does it cost to fix a top load washing machine drum that has dropped?
The cost of fixing a top load washing machine drum that has dropped depends on the cause and extent of the problem, the type and brand of your washer, and the availability and price of the replacement parts. However, a rough estimate is that it can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 to fix a top load washing machine drum that has dropped.
Can I fix a top load washing machine drum that has dropped myself?
Yes, you can fix a top load washing machine drum that has dropped yourself if you have some basic tools and skills and follow the steps we have outlined in this blog post. However, if you are not confident or comfortable with doing it yourself, you can always call a professional technician to do it for you.
How can I prevent my top load washing machine drum from dropping again?
You can prevent your top load washing machine drum from dropping again by taking good care of your washer and maintaining it regularly. Some of the tips we have shared in this blog post include not overloading your washer, using the right detergent and amount, cleaning your washer regularly, inspecting and replacing any worn-out or damaged parts, and making sure your washer is level on the floor.
What are the signs that my top load washing machine drum is about to drop?
Some of the signs that your top load washing machine drum is about to drop are:
- Your washer shakes and moves excessively during the wash cycle
- Your washer makes loud banging or clunking noises from inside
- Your washer does not spin properly or stops spinning altogether
- Your washer leaks water from underneath or around the drum
- Your washer does not clean your clothes well or leaves them wet or dirty
If you notice any of these signs, you should inspect your washer for any problems and fix them as soon as possible.
