I have a Hoover washing machine, when it goes to high speed spin the noise sounds as if I am washing a load of ball bearings. This is really bad timing, my tumble dryer broke last week and I've just forked out for a replacement. I can't afford two appliances in one week!!! Can anyone help??

Helen, March 2010

Bad news I'm afraid. It will probably be the main bearings gone. Which means a complete dismantle of machine to get at them to replace. If not the main bearings then it might be the motor bearings which Hoover machines seem to have a problem with.

Lincoln Appliance NZ, March 2010