Speed Queen FF7 front-load washer makes grinding, squealing, clicking or banging noises

The checks in more detail

Its faults tend to be mechanical, a door lock, the drain pump or a valve, rather than software errors, and its noises tend to follow the same pattern. Run the washer empty on a short cycle and note when the noise happens. A grinding or rattling while water drains points to the drain pump, where a coin, a button or a hair clip can lodge: unplug the washer, open the lower panel, drain the water into a dish and clean the filter and look in the pump chamber.

A scrape on every turn of the drum suggests an object between the drum and the tub; open the door and turn the drum by hand and listen. A knock or thump on the spin points to balance: a heavy, lopsided or very small load, or a floor that is not level. Level the feet with a spirit level, tighten the lock nuts and add a few mixed items. The FF7 spins very fast, so any installation fault is amplified.

Check that the shipping bolts were removed from the rear and that the washer sits on a firm floor; a springy floor and a high spin make the washer vibrate and walk. Dynamic Balancing Technology helps, but it cannot correct a missing bolt. If the washer is level, the packing is out, the drum and pump are clear and the rumble still rises with spin speed, the drum bearings may be worn, which a technician diagnoses. With a 5-year warranty, check your purchase date, and quote FF7009WN and the serial number from the label.