High Speed Spin Squeal!

[decodriveboy]

Hey guys, I've noticed that on heavy loads on the highest speed spin setting, my Frigidaire 2140 has started making a high pitched noise or squeal.

Is this something to worry about? Could it be early bearing failure? It doesn't happen on the lower speeds.

Thanks.

 

[pumper]

uh oh

i wonder if the higher water level has affected the bearings...

 

[pumper]

if you call for service, make sure you put the water level back where it was before and don't tell them you raised it or it will probably void your warranty.

 

[launderess]

Only way to tell if it is the bearings is to take off the back of the unit for a quick sneek and peek. If you see any signs of rust or such dripping from the bearing area, then you may have problems. You can also slide some paper under the unit (it must reach the back/under the bearings), and leave it there for several cycles. Pull the paper out and inspect for any water and or rust dripping from what would have been under the bearing area.

FriGeMore units were never known for robust bearing design, though word is newer units are better than older models. Changing the water level back now isn't probably going to fool any repair person long, as he will beign looking for the cause of bearing failure. If it is the bearings, and the damage was due to water/detergent getting into the seals, he will look at all the common culprits including water levels. If here was a seal over the water level screw, and it looks tampered with....

OTHO, many front loaders make high pitched noises upon spinning. Is this noise different say from when you first purchased the unit?

L.

 

[decodriveboy]

Thanks

The only time I noticed the squeal was during a very heavy (i.e. comforters) load on the highest spin speed. I hadn't noticed it before and the machine doesn't always do it. I will def try the paper test.

As I've said before I would rather have it break eventually from the increased water level than live with a cup of water to wash my clothes!

 

[andrewinorlando]

Is it a squeak or squeal or is it more a high pitched scraping sound?

 

[decodriveboy]

At first I thought it sounded like a scraping sound. Wish I could upload the noise exactly

 

[decodriveboy]

Launderess

Ran a couple of heavy loads again, searched for moisture under the lid while running, and examined the floor undeneath. Everything looks clean and normal. I'm leaving the spin on LOW from now on though.

 

[launderess]

Glad to hear it, but shame you may wish to baby the machine, as low spin speeds on heavy items will run up your dryer costs.

When you have the time and energy, pop off the back and have a peek around the bearing area. This is the best way to see what is what, and you may be worrying over nothing.

Another way to check the bearings is to reach into the empty tub and give a quick spin. If you hear strange noises that is a good indication your bearings might be going.

Just for the record, heavy down duvets can take a toll on any washing machine not designed for such things. Indeed routine over loading any front loader will cause bearings to fail sooner than they should. Of course much depends upon the washer's design.

Best of luck.