HOW TO STOP A WASHER FROM SHAKING
A shaky washer can be noisy and disruptive. But how much movement is too much? This guide will help you determine why your washing machine is shaking and what you can do to fix it. Some solutions are simple, like loading laundry differently, while others require moderate work, like adjusting the leveling legs. Any solutions that require opening up or taking apart your washer should be done by a qualified professional. Check your washer’s owner’s manual for model-specific troubleshooting information, or read on for general instructions on how to stop your washing machine from shaking.
IS IT NORMAL FOR A WASHING MACHINE TO SHAKE?
A small amount of washing machine shaking is normal, particularly during the spin cycle. However, your washer shouldn’t “walk” across the floor and you shouldn’t hear thumping, banging or loud vibration.
If a washer is installed and used properly, excessive shaking is unusual and there may be a simple fix. If the shaking of your machine is disruptive, consider a Maytag® Washer with Advanced Vibration Control™, which uses powerful shock absorbers to help keep noise to a minimum.
WHY IS MY WASHING MACHINE SHAKING SO MUCH?
If your washing machine is shaking violently, the culprit may be inside: check if the washer is overloaded or if a bulky item is causing it to become unbalanced. If all is well on the inside, it’s also possible that the washer is unlevel or unbalanced due to improper installation or uneven floors. Check that all four legs are in contact with the floor or place a leveler on top of the washer.
Professional installation is a great way to avoid issues down the road. For instance, Maytag brand offers professional delivery, installation and haul away services. Read on for troubleshooting steps that will help keep your washer running as needed.
TROUBLESHOOTING CAUSES OF A SHAKING WASHER
Run through these steps to figure out why your washing machine is shaking. Start with some easy solutions and move down the list until you’ve discovered the problem. This guide will help you determine if you can fix it yourself or if it’s best left to a professional.
Tools you might need
- Level
- 9/16 inch or 14 mm. open-end or adjustable wrench
- Adjustable pliers
STEP 1: MAKE SURE TO REMOVE THE SHIPPING BOLTS
During installation, make sure to remove all the shipping materials or your new washing machine could shake violently. Shipping bolts are used to secure the wash basket while it’s being shipped. They should be removed before using the machine to avoid serious vibration, noise and potentially permanent damage. See where the shipping bolts are located and how to remove them.
STEP 2: CHECK THE LAUNDRY LOAD
An overfilled wash basket may be the cause of a shaking washer. Try removing some items and evenly dispersing the remaining load. Washing one large, bulky item or something very absorbent like a comforter can also throw the washer off balance. Add other items to equalize the weight and stop the washer from shaking.
STEP 3: CONFIRM THAT THE WASHER IS LEVEL
An unlevel washing machine is often the source of vibration and noise. A washer is typically unlevel because the floor it sits on is unlevel. Try the following to determine if your washer is level and stabilize it if it’s unlevel.
- Place a level width-wise on top of the washer. Make sure the bubble in the tube is between the two center lines. Repeat with the level, oriented front to back.
- Raise or lower the leveling legs with a wrench or pliers by turning them. Tighten the jam nuts against the base of the washer if necessary.
- If the washer is installed with a pedestal, be sure the mounting screws are tight, the pedestal's feet are in firm contact with the floor and the foot lock nut is tight to the frame.
- If your pedestal comes with storage, check inside to make sure the shaking sound isn’t due to loose items rolling or rattling inside.
For more information read these articles on how to level a top load washer and how to level a front load washer.
CHECK IF YOUR WASHER BASKET OR DRUM IS LOOSE
If your washer is old and you hear a loud banging or clanging during the spin cycle, it’s possible the shock absorbers or drum bearings have worn out, causing the basket or drum to get off-balance. Check that the basket or drum is visibly centered in the washer opening. Try to manually move it and listen for a grinding or clanking noise.
If you believe your washer’s basket/drum is loose, or that there are any internal problems, schedule a service appointment with the manufacturer. If you own a Maytag® washer, you can contact Repair and Replace Services. Also, check your warranty to save on service fees and parts. Maytag® laundry pairs are built to last with a 10-year limited parts warranty on the motors, wash basket and dryer drum.
HOW DO I STABILIZE MY WASHING MACHINE?
To stabilize your washer, adjust the leveling legs on the washer itself or washer pedestal. With an adjustable wrench, turn the legs to lower or raise them. Level it front to back, then side to side. Check your work with a level.
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