Understanding Washer Overloading: A Common Laundry Mistake

What Overloading a Washing Machine Really Means

Everyone has done it at some point, but it’s a bad idea. Overloading the washing machine by exceeding the recommended load size isn’t just breaking an arbitrary rule. When you pack the washing machine with clothing, you make the washer work harder, but you also make it impossible for the clothing to get truly clean. Garments can’t move freely, and the friction that occurs when they come into contact with each other can wear out the fabric.

Common Error Codes Triggered by Overloading

Modern washing machines will let you know if you’ve overloaded your washer. The code is different, depending on the brand of washing machine.

• Samsung gives Ub or UE codes for an unbalanced load, which is usually the result of overloading.
• LG washers will display OE or LE codes, and this means there’s an issue with the spinning drum or the machine is overloaded.
• On a Whirlpool machine, FO6 or SUD codes show that the washer is either overloaded or has too much detergent, which is interfering with the sensors.
• Bosh washing machines signal an overload with an E18 code.

Major Impacts and Risks of Overloading Your Washer: Can Overloading a Washer Cause it to Leak?

Overloading your washer puts a strain on the machine. By making it work harder, overloading can cause your washer to overheat or even fail. The drum bearings and suspension are designed to absorb the movement of the washer, but when a heavy load throws it off balance, these internal parts can be damaged. Finally, yes, overloading a washer can cause it to leak, either from the top or the bottom of the machine. Sometimes, balancing the load can rectify this situation, but in other cases, the leak indicates that something has broken inside the washer.

How to Load Your Washing Machine the Right Way

So, what is the best way to load a washing machine? First, go by the manufacturer’s guidelines, found in the manual. The manual will tell you how much space to leave in the washer, how to wash different types of fabrics, and how much detergent to use. As a rule of thumb, when you put in your clothing, leave about a hand’s width of space at the top of the washer, so that water and detergent can circulate freely. Be careful to balance the load, evenly distributing heavy and light items, and don’t wash bulky items alone.

Signs Your Washer is Overloaded

If your washer is in the middle of a cycle, and it begins to make thumping or banging sounds, it’s either overloaded or unbalanced. Similarly, excessive vibration or movement can indicate an overloaded washer. Modern washers may flash an error message, or your washing machine may simply stop mid-cycle. If you don’t notice that your washer is overloaded during the cycle, you may notice that your clothes are either partially dry or still soapy when you take them out of the machine.

More Common Laundry Mistakes to Avoid

Aside from packing the washer too tightly, there are some other mistakes that can wear out your clothing and overwork your washer.

• Using more detergent than is recommended may seem like a good way to get your clothes cleaner, but in fact it does the opposite. Over-sudsing means more friction, reduced water flow, and even worse, extra detergent bound to dirt and stains so that they’re not removed in the wash. Too much detergent also wears on the washing machine, damaging the drum, bearing, and seals, and clogging the drain pumps and filters.
• Failing to sort laundry correctly can damage your clothing. Separate it by color, so that the dyes don’t transfer between garments. Sort by fabric type, too, so that each type of fabric is washed correctly, to prevent damage. Wash delicate items separately from heavy fabrics, to keep them from being damaged by coming into contact with rough garments.
• Leaving laundry in the washer can be a costly mistake. Not only will the laundry need to be run again, but you run the risk of mold and mildew growth on your garments. In many cases, this cannot be removed, and the clothing is permanently stained.

How to Fix an Overloaded Washer, and the Role of Professional Washer Maintenance

Once you’ve determined that your washer is overloaded, the obvious next step is to remove some of the clothing and redistribute the weight. Next, however, you’ll need to take some time to inspect the washer, looking for any damage. Has the washer broken a belt? Is there water on the floor? Sometimes, simply rebalancing the load resolves the issue. However, if the washer still seems to be “off”, it may be time to call for a professional. A belt may need to be replaced, the bearings may need to be repaired or replaced, and in a worst case scenario, your motor may need repair or replacement. Even if the washer seems fine, talk to your technician at your next maintenance call. Having your washer regularly inspected and maintained can help catch any issues before they become major problems.

For Washing Machine Maintenance and Repair, Contact Appliance Repair Doctor

If you live in the Chicago area, and you have an appliance that needs maintenance or repair, you can trust Appliance Repair Doctor to provide you with superior service. Our local, family-owned business was built on honesty, trust, and high-quality service, and our reputation in the community earned us the #1 Best Rated Quality Business Award of 2023. You can count on our comprehensive repair process to resolve your washing machine issues, and we’ll work to exceed your expectations every time. The team of technicians at Appliance Repair Doctor has the knowledge and expertise to service nearly all major appliance brands,  backed by over two decades of industry experience. If you need appliance repair, contact us today.