Washing Machine Beeping? (here’s why & what to do)

If your washing machine is beeping constantly or seems like it is, it can be annoying to say the least. Washing machines don’t randomly beep for no reason so it’s likely to be an indicator of something going on with the appliance.

This could make you start to worry that there’s something seriously wrong with your washer. But before you start searching for the service centre’s number, keep reading.

In this article we take a close look at all of the possible reasons why your washing machine is beeping and offer solutions to these issues.

Why Is The Washing Machine Beeping?

If your washing machine is beeping it’s because it’s trying to tell you something. There are 3 different types of beep patterns that typically are used to signify different things. These can be divided into;

• 1. Short Beeps
• 2. Musical Beeps
• 3. Long Beeps

In most cases it’s the longer beeps that usually cause concern but let’s run through each type.

1. Short Beeps

The short beep tends to be a reminder or an alert about the following;

• The end of the cycle
• Insufficient detergent/fabric softener
• Time to clean the filter
• Transition to the next cycle (washer/dryers)

2. Musical Beeps

Musical style beeps generally indicate that a particular part of the cycle has been completed or has reached the next stage. These include;

Turning The Washer On Or Off

On many washing machines, turning it on or off causes the appliance to make a musical style beep. This type of beep doesn’t indicate any type of error, just a way for the appliance to communicate with you what function it has done.

Timer Set

If you have set a timer to stop or pause the cycle, it will often make a musical style beep. You will either need to wait until the timer counts down or cancel the timer to stop the beeping.

The End Of The Cycle

Once the cycle completes and the machine is completely finished, it might make a musical style beep to signify its completion. This notifies you that it’s time to remove the laundry from the drum.

3. Long Beeps

Long or continuous beeps usually signify some sort of problem and can be seen as warning beeps. This type of beeping should never be ignored as it could indicate a serious problem with some of the major components of your washer.

It could indicate the failure of the appliance to carry out a necessary function, or even something major malfunctioning. Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons behind a constant beep on a washing machine. They include;

Water Inlet Issues

If the water flows too slowly and takes too long to fill the tub, or there is low water pressure, the internal sensor detects the problem and sends a message to the control board.

The control board triggers the continuous beep to alert you that there’s a problem. This could be caused by the inlet hose being twisted which is an easy fix, all you need to do is straighten it.

However, it could be that the inlet valve itself has developed a fault and will need replacing. If the water pressure has dropped in your home, you will need to investigate the cause.

It could be due to other demands on the water supply such as a shower, tap or garden hose. This can be remedied by ensuring all taps remain off at least until the washer has filled with water.

Low water pressure could also be caused by the stopcock not being fully open, or the water authority has done something to the water pressure in the mains. You will need to contact the local water authority if you suspect the issue is caused by them.

Washer Door Not Fully Closed

The door lock mechanism on washing machines automatically locks the door once you select a cycle and press the start button. If the door doesn’t shut properly or the latch or sensors are faulty, the machine will not start and will beep constantly.

You will need to check that there’s nothing obstructing the door and stopping it from closing. Check around the door seal for any obstructions like detergent buildup etc.

If the door latch or sensor proves to be the cause, they will need replacing before the appliance can be used again.

Faults And Errors

Most washing machines nowadays can identify an error and then display an error code to send you looking in the right direction. There could be a malfunction in the pump, motor or one of the sensors. 

If your washing machine is constantly beeping and is displaying an error code, you will need to consult your user manual to find out what that particular error code signifies.

You will then be able to solve the issue which will stop the beeping and get your appliance running smoothly again. Some of the more common issues include;

The Washing Machine Fails To Drain Correctly

If your washer fails to drain correctly, it’s likely to beep constantly. This can be caused by a blocked or twisted drain hose, a clogged filter or the standpipe is blocked.

You will need to investigate all 3 of these starting with the drain hose, check that it’s not twisted or kinked. You should then check it for any blockages before checking the filter on your washing machine for any foreign objects that could be impeding the flow of wastewater.

The standpipe should be the last place to check for any blockages.

Defective Timer Or Control Board

If the timer or control board becomes defective it can cause the washer to beep continuously. We recommend getting a technician to check and replace these parts if necessary.

Water Supply Error

There are several water supply errors that can cause the washer to continuously beep which include; The water not filling properly or the sensor detects that the water isn’t filling properly. This could be a genuine water issue or the sensor is faulty.

The cause could also be that the washer is filling with too much water, again, this could be genuine or a faulty sensor. You will need to check the inlet valve because a defective inlet valve can allow too much or not enough water into the tub.

We recommend getting a technician to investigate and fix this issue for you.

Unbalanced Load

If the load in the drum is unbalanced, it can cause excessive vibrations when the drum is spinning. Many modern machines are fitted with vibration sensors that detect the unbalanced load and trigger the continuous beep to let you know there’s a problem.

If the imbalance persists without correcting itself, the continuous beep will not stop until you stop the drum and rearrange the load.

Electrical Glitch (software error)

Modern washing machines rely on sophisticated software to control their functions. Like all digital devices, the washer can get problems like software errors which trick the sensors into thinking there’s a problem.

Sometimes all that’s needed to clear a software error is to reset the appliance. This can be achieved by disconnecting the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes to allow any residue power to dissipate.

Once the power has been reconnected, the glitch will have cleared and the beeping will have gone.

Not All Beeps Are Problems But…

If your washing machine is beeping, it could be a regular beep signifying the end of a cycle or the timer has been set. But it could also indicate that the appliance has a problem that needs to be resolved before the washer can work properly.

You should never ignore any beeps and definitely don’t mute the sound to blot it out. You need to listen to the sound and type of beep as well as check the display for any error codes.

Some of the faults indicated can easily be fixed by anyone without any DIY skills at all. Or you may have to contact a technician to get the problem solved. Either way, don’t ignore any warning beeps from your washing machine.

SEE ALSO: Washing Machine Making A Grinding Noise? (try this)

Frequently Asked Questions