Speed Queen Washer Drain Pump Grinding Noise:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Speed Queen washer's Main Control Unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the drain pump motor during the drain cycle. This energizes the motor, which turns the impeller to pump water out of the wash tub. Any obstruction, mechanical failure, or electrical issue within this system can cause the grinding noise.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a loud grinding noise coming from the Speed Queen washer, specifically during the drain cycle. This noise indicates a problem within the drain pump assembly.

Possible Causes:

Foreign object lodged in the drain pump impeller.
Worn or damaged drain pump bearings.
Drain pump motor failure.
Restriction in the drain hose or standpipe causing pump cavitation.
Loose mounting of the drain pump to the washer base.

Solution:

1

Unplug the washer from the 120V AC outlet. Turn off the water supply valves.
2

Access the drain pump. On most Speed Queen models, this requires removing the front panel (using a 1/4-inch nut driver) or rear panel (using a 5/16-inch socket).
3

Inspect the drain pump for visible obstructions. Remove any lint, socks, or other debris from the pump housing and impeller.
4

Check the drain pump impeller for free rotation. If the impeller is difficult to turn or feels gritty, the pump bearings may be failing. Replace the drain pump.
5

Disconnect the drain hose from the pump and inspect for clogs. Clear any obstructions with pliers or a stiff wire. Also, check the standpipe for restrictions.
6

If no obstructions are found and the impeller spins freely, use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the drain pump electrical connector during the drain cycle. If voltage is present but the pump doesn't run, the pump motor is likely faulty. Replace the drain pump.
7

After repairs, ensure the drain pump is securely mounted to the washer base. A loose pump can vibrate and cause noise.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the washer before performing any repairs. Use Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental re-energizing. High voltage is present when the washer is plugged in.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter to prevent debris from entering the drain pump. Avoid washing items that may release small objects (e.g., socks) into the wash tub. Periodically inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs.

Expert Tip:

Many Speed Queen models have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for your specific model to access error codes and test individual components like the drain pump. Often, repeated grinding noises indicate a partially blocked pump, and running the diagnostic drain cycle several times can dislodge the obstruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the part number for the drain pump on my specific Speed Queen model?

The part number for the drain pump varies depending on your specific model number. You can find the correct part number by looking up your model number on the Speed Queen website or a parts supplier website like AppliancePartsPros.com.

•How do I access the service mode on my Speed Queen washer to run a drain pump test?

Accessing the service mode varies by model. Typically, it involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel. Consult your washer's service manual or search online for the service mode procedure for your exact model number.

•Besides obstructions and motor failure, what else could cause the drain pump to be noisy?

Air trapped in the drain pump housing (cavitation) can also cause noise. Ensure the drain hose is not kinked and that the standpipe is properly sized and vented to prevent siphoning and air ingestion. Also, a worn or damaged pump mounting bracket can amplify vibrations and noise.

Speed Queen Washer Drain Pump Grinding Noise: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the part number for the drain pump on my specific Speed Queen model?

•How do I access the service mode on my Speed Queen washer to run a drain pump test?

•Besides obstructions and motor failure, what else could cause the drain pump to be noisy?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: