Electrolux washing machine making strange noises when draining or spinning – causes and fixes

Issue

If your Electrolux washing machine is making unusual noises while it’s draining or spinning, it’s often because of the position or installation of the drain hose or inlet hose.

In many cases, these sounds are normal installation-related noises rather than a fault with the appliance. If the hose isn’t positioned correctly, it can affect the flow of water or air, or cause vibrations against the appliance cabinet.

You might experience:

Typical signs

• Gurgling or bubbling noises while draining
• Suction-type noises from the drain hose connection
• Louder humming noises while the water is being pumped out
• Vibrations or knocking noises during draining or spinning
• Noise that occurs only during specific parts of the programme
• Hoses touching the appliance cabinet or surrounding surfaces

Applies to:

• Electrolux washing machines
• Electrolux washer dryers

Resolution

Start by checking the most common installation-related causes. In many cases, the noise can be reduced or eliminated without needing a service call.

1. Check how the drain hose is installed

Make sure the drain hose hasn’t been pushed too far into the standpipe or household drain.

If the hose is pushed in too far, the airflow can be restricted and this may cause:

• Gurgling sounds
• Bubbling noises
• Suction-like sounds while draining

Adjust the hose according to the instructions in your user manual.

2. Check the drain hose for any bends or kinks

Check the full length of the drain hose.

Make sure it’s not:

• Bent sharply
• Kinked
• Twisted
• Crushed behind the appliance

Restrictions can make the drain pump work harder and may increase operating noise.

3. Check the inlet hose position

Make sure the inlet hose is routed correctly and isn’t touching the appliance cabinet.

A hose that vibrates against the cabinet can cause extra noise, especially when it’s spinning.

4. Keep hoses away from the cabinet

Make sure there’s enough clearance for both the drain hose and the inlet hose.

If a hose is touching:

• Side panels
• The rear panel
• Nearby furniture or pipes

it can transmit vibration and create rattling or knocking sounds.

5. Check the installation follows the user manual

Correct installation helps ensure proper water flow and reduces unnecessary noise.

Check that:

• The drain hose is installed at the recommended height
• Hoses are properly supported
• Water can flow freely through the drainage system
• Installation follows the instructions for your specific model

Refer to your appliance user manual for detailed guidance.

Important

Some noises are a normal part of how the washing machine works and don’t mean there’s anything wrong.

The noise level may vary depending on:

• Appliance installation
• Floor type
• Drainage system design
• Selected spin speed
• Laundry load size and distribution

Modern washing machines may also sound different from older models due to changes in pump and motor design.

When Is It Not a Fault?

Some sounds are part of normal washing machine operation and don’t indicate a fault:

• Humming or buzzing noise– motor or drain pump running
• Clicking sounds– internal components switching between cycles
• Water moving inside drum (sloshing/swishing) – normal during washing
• Banging during the spin cycle – load balancing, especially with uneven laundry
• High-speed spinning noise– normal during fast spin cycles
• Water pouring sounds – a soft hissing or flowing noise
• Drain pump sound– low, steady hum while draining water
• Door lock/unlock clicks – standard safety feature
• Light rattling noise – caused by things like buttons or zips

If the appliance drains and spins properly and no error message is displayed, these sounds are usually part of normal operation.

Cause:

The problem is usually down to how the hose is fitted or positioned, rather than a fault with the appliance.

Common causes include:

• Drain hose pushed too far into the standpipe
• Bent, kinked, or twisted drain hose
• Drain or inlet hoses touching the appliance cabinet
• Hoses routed incorrectly behind the appliance
• Airflow and water-flow characteristics within the household drainage system

Less commonly, unusual noises may be caused by a blocked drain system, a foreign object, or a component fault.

FAQ

Why is my Electrolux washing machine making a gurgling noise when it’s draining?

This is often caused by air flow in the drain system or the drain hose being pushed too far down into the standpipe.

Is a humming noise while it’s draining normal?

Yes. The drain pump usually makes a humming noise while it’s draining water from the appliance.

Why do I hear a suction-like noise?

This can happen if the airflow around the drain hose is restricted while it’s draining.

Can the way the hose is positioned cause vibration?

Yes. Hoses that touch the cabinet or nearby surfaces can transfer vibration and cause extra noise.

Should I straighten a bent drain hose?

Yes. Straightening out bends, twists, and kinks can improve the water flow and cut down on noise.

When should I get in touch with service?

If the appliance isn’t draining properly, shows an error code, is leaking water, or keeps making loud mechanical noises after you’ve carried out the installation checks, it may need to be inspected further.