If your washing machine is not functioning as well as it used to, it may be because the drum bearings have worn out. Drum bearings are located at the rear of the drum and function by allowing the inner drum to spin smoothly.
There are a few tell-tale indications that your drum bearings are faulty.
If your machine begins to make a lot of noise during a cycle, it may be due to defective drum bearings. Another possibility is that the inner drum is moving faster than usual, particularly when compared to the outer tub.
If it becomes apparent that these components are creating issues for your machine, you will need to decide whether it is worth repairing the washing machine bearings or whether you would be better off buying a new machine altogether.
Replacing them may seem like more of a hassle than it is worth, and buying new bearings is not always inexpensive. A new machine, on the other hand, is an expensive investment in and of itself.
With that in mind, let us take a closer if is it worth replacing washing machine bearings?
Information about bearings in a washing machine
It may be an indication of damaged drum bearings if your washing machine sounds more like an airport runway than an item that belongs in your laundry room. It is a frequent issue with many older washers, and it may destroy both your eardrums and the appliance.
But what precisely are bearings? It is a vital component of your washing machine, consisting of metal rings that maintain the spinning of the drum.
How do I know if my washing machine bearings are bad?
If your washing machine makes a loud noise while spinning, this may be a sign of drum bearing deterioration. Check to verify whether the inner drum moves up and down in relation to the fixed outer drum. It should just move a little bit. If it moves more than a millimeter or two, it is most likely due to worn bearings.
What happens if bearings go on washing machine?
Faulty bearings will not impact the performance of your washer, but they may harm other components like as the basket, shaft, outer drum, and certain electrical components. Bad bearings may eventually lead to the death of your washing machine.
What is the lifespan of a washing machine?
A washing machine has an average lifetime of 7 to 13 years. A new washer should last approximately 11 years on average. However, owing to poor design, older washing machines may not survive as long.
What Are the Most Important Factors to Consider When Replacing Washing Machine Bearings?
When your washing machine requires bearings, you can get them here for every washing machine brand at no additional cost. In reality, if you have the necessary expertise, you can install them yourself. Keep the following in mind before changing the washing machine bearings.
Warranty
Depending on the brand and type of your appliance, replacing bearings on a washing machine may cost anywhere from $100 to $600, or more. If your equipment is still under warranty, any repair or replacement expenses should be borne by the manufacturer under a consumer guarantee clause.
Age of the washing machine
Washing machine bearings typically last about 10 years, so changing them ensures that the fresh new bearings will not wear out very soon.
You may use the 50 percent guideline to the age of your appliances as well as the expense of fixing them when determining whether to replace them. That would imply replacing an appliance that is more than halfway through its projected life cycle and needs maintenance work that is more than half the cost of the original purchase. If you take the DIY path, keep in mind that there are certain house repairs you should never do on your own.
Availability of the spares
Bearings in washing machines and washer dryers often fail because the water seal, which is a black seal that sits in front of the front bearing to protect it from water intrusion, wears and allows water into the bearing housing.
Experts (technician’s) opinion
The issue of whether your drum bearings should be changed or serviced is one you will have to consider. As simple as replacing them may seem, it may be a costly task, and fixing them may be a more cost-effective alternative.
How much does it cost to replace bearings in a washing machine?
Depending on the brand and type of your appliance, replacing bearings on a washing machine may cost anywhere from $100 to $600, or more. This includes the net cost of components, including the actual bearings and oil seals, as well as expert installation. Top loaders, on average, cost more to repair since they have more components than front loaders.
If your equipment is still under warranty, any repair or replacement expenses should be borne by the manufacturer under a consumer guarantee clause. Washing machines have an average warranty duration of 24 months.
Is it worth replacing washing machine bearings?
Faulty bearings will not impact the performance of your washer, but they may harm other components like as the basket, shaft, outer drum, and certain electrical components. Bad bearings may eventually lead to the death of your washing machine. As a result, it is more cost effective and practical to repair faulty bearings as soon as feasible. It will prevent additional harm to your computer and perhaps a larger repair cost in the future.
Which Washer Brand Is Most Reliable?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on individual factors such as the type of washer, the frequency of use, and the care and maintenance that is done. However, some reliable washer brands include Bosch, Samsung, and LG.
Final Thoughts
If you keep your washing machine for longer than you planned, the bearings will ultimately break. Because many new washing machines still cost hundreds of dollars, most people retain their machines for an extended period of time, and bearings are certain to wear out after regular usage. When your washing machine begins to make odd sounds, it is a clear indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Hopefully, this guide will help you realize is it worth replacing washing machine bearings?
Unfortunately, owing to the many washing machine brands available, not all bearings are the same. With models ranging from Maytag to Whirlpool still in use, it may be difficult to locate bearing replacements in a single location. Even if you employ a skilled repair specialist, they may have to purchase bearings from several suppliers depending on the kind of washing machine you have.