Quick answer
Turn off the washer and unplug it. Check the floor for level and adjust the leveling feet. Ensure the washer is on a stable, flat surface. If shaking continues, check for overloading or redistribute the laundry.
Confirm the symptom
- Washer shakes violently during spin cycle
- Vibrations are loud and noticeable
- Washer moves across the floor during operation
- Shaking stops when the load is redistributed
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver or adjustable wrench
- Towel or padding for floor protection
- Spirit level
- Empty washer and unplug it from power source
- Turn off water supply
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check Floor LevelDo: Use a spirit level to check if the floor is even under the washer.Observe: If the floor is uneven, the washer will shake.Means: The washer is not sitting on a stable surface.Next: Adjust the floor or use shims if necessary.
- Adjust Leveling FeetDo: Turn the leveling feet clockwise or counterclockwise to raise or lower the washer.Observe: The washer should sit level with all four feet touching the floor.Means: Improper leveling causes imbalance during spinning.Next: Test the washer after adjusting.
- Check for OverloadingDo: Open the washer and redistribute or remove excess laundry.Observe: If the load is uneven or too heavy, the washer will shake.Means: Overloading creates an unbalanced spin cycle.Next: Run a test cycle with a smaller load.
- Inspect for Loose PartsDo: Check the washer's base and drum for loose bolts or components.Observe: Loose parts can cause vibrations and shaking.Means: Worn or loose hardware affects stability.Next: Tighten any loose parts and test the washer.
- Add Washer Pads or Anti-Vibration PadsDo: Place anti-vibration pads or thick towels under the washer’s feet.Observe: The washer should vibrate less and stay in place.Means: Pads absorb vibrations and prevent movement.Next: Monitor the washer during the next cycle.
- Check for Drum ImbalanceDo: Manually rotate the drum to see if it moves smoothly or if there is resistance.Observe: If the drum is off-center or stuck, it may cause shaking.Means: A misaligned drum can create vibration during operation.Next: Consult a professional if the drum is damaged or misaligned.
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uneven Floor The washer rocks or shifts during the spin cycle, causing shaking. | Common | Easy | Shims or leveling feet |
| Improperly Adjusted Leveling Feet The washer is not balanced, leading to excessive vibration. | Common | Easy | Adjustable leveling feet |
| Overloading the Washer Excess or unevenly distributed laundry creates an unbalanced load. | Common | Easy | None |
| Loose or Worn Parts Loose bolts or worn components can cause instability and shaking. | Sometimes | Easy–Medium | Bolts, washers |
| Worn Suspension System Springs or shock absorbers may be damaged, causing vibration. | Sometimes | Medium | Suspension springs or shock absorbers |
| Damaged Drum or Bearings A misaligned or damaged drum can create shaking during spinning. | Rare | Hard | Drum or bearing assembly |
| Lack of Anti-Vibration Pads Without pads, the washer’s vibrations transfer to the floor. | Sometimes | Easy | Anti-vibration pads |
Parts matching
Common parts that may be needed to stop a shaking washer include:
- Adjustable leveling feet
- Anti-vibration pads
- Suspension springs
- Drum bearings
- Shims for floor leveling
Before purchasing parts, ensure the washer is unplugged and the water supply is off to avoid injury.
When to call a professional
- Shaking persists after adjusting leveling feet and redistributing the load
- You hear loud noises or knocking sounds during the spin cycle
- The drum is visibly misaligned or damaged
- Vibrations cause damage to the floor or surrounding area
- You are unsure about disassembling internal components
FAQ
Why does my washer shake only during the spin cycle?
The spin cycle generates the most force, so any imbalance in the load or washer setup becomes more noticeable during this phase.
Can overloading cause permanent damage to my washer?
Yes, consistently overloading your washer can strain the motor, suspension system, and drum, leading to long-term damage.
How do I know if my leveling feet need adjustment?
If the washer rocks side to side or front to back when you push on it, the leveling feet are likely out of adjustment.
Are anti-vibration pads necessary for all washers?
While not all washers require them, anti-vibration pads can significantly reduce noise and movement, especially on hardwood or tile floors.
What should I do if the drum won’t rotate smoothly by hand?
A stiff or unbalanced drum may indicate worn bearings or a misalignment. Stop using the washer and contact a professional technician.