In general, spinning the drum of your washer or dryer by hand should not cause any harm to the appliance. Both washing machines and dryers are designed to withstand normal wear and tear, including the rotational forces generated during regular use.
Here are some points to consider:
Mechanical stress: Spinning the drum by hand involves applying a small amount of force to turn it manually. This force is much lower than the rotational forces generated during the machine's regular cycles. As a result, it is unlikely to cause any significant mechanical stress or damage.
Lubrication: Modern washers and dryers are equipped with bearings and other components that allow for smooth drum rotation. These parts are designed to handle the friction and forces generated during regular use. However, if your washer or dryer is very old or hasn't been maintained properly, excessive manual spinning might reveal underlying issues.
Balance and alignment: Another consideration is whether the drum is balanced and properly aligned. An unbalanced or misaligned drum could cause additional stress on the appliance during normal operation. Spinning the drum by hand may not accurately reflect the forces experienced during a regular cycle, so it might not be a reliable way to determine balance or alignment issues.
Warranty: If your washer or dryer is still under warranty, it's essential to check the terms and conditions to ensure that manually spinning the drum won't void the warranty. While it's unlikely to cause damage, some manufacturers may have specific guidelines regarding user actions that could affect the warranty coverage.
While spinning the drum by hand is generally safe, it's best to avoid excessive force or aggressive movements. If you notice any unusual resistance, grinding sounds, or other irregularities when manually spinning the drum, it's a good idea to stop and have the appliance checked by a professional technician.
For regular use, it's best to let the washer and dryer perform their cycles automatically, as they are designed to handle the forces and stresses involved in the laundry process effectively.