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A washing machine should run smoothly, but if it starts shaking, making loud noises, or moving around, it may be unbalanced. An unbalanced washer can cause damage to the drum, motor, and even your floor. If you’re wondering how to rebalance a washer, this guide will help you fix the issue quickly.
Why Does a Washer Become Unbalanced?
A washer can become unbalanced due to several reasons, including:
✔ Unevenly distributed clothes in the drum
✔ Overloading the machine
✔ An uneven floor surface under the washer
✔ Worn-out shock absorbers or suspension rods
✔ Loose or damaged washer legs
Fixing these issues will not only stop the noise but also extend the life of your washing machine.
Signs Your Washer is Unbalanced
If your washer is unbalanced, you may notice:
🔹 Excessive shaking or vibrating during the spin cycle
🔹 Loud banging or thumping noises
🔹 The washer moves across the floor
🔹 The spin cycle doesn’t complete properly
🔹 Error codes on the display (common in modern washers)
If you experience any of these problems, follow the steps below to rebalance your washer.
How to Rebalance a Washer
Step 1: Stop the Washer and Check the Load
- Pause the machine immediately if it starts shaking violently.
- Open the washer lid or door and redistribute the clothes evenly in the drum.
- If you have too many clothes, remove some and restart the cycle.
- If there are too few clothes, add a few more to balance the load.
✅ Tip: Wash heavy and light clothes separately. Mixing large towels with small shirts can cause imbalance.
Step 2: Level the Washer
A washing machine must sit evenly on the floor for proper function.
How to Check and Adjust Washer Level:
- Use a bubble level – Place a level on top of the washer to check if it’s balanced.
- Adjust the legs – Most washers have adjustable feet.
- If one side is higher, turn the leg counterclockwise to lower it.
- If one side is lower, turn the leg clockwise to raise it.
- Test the stability – Push the washer slightly to see if it rocks. If it moves, adjust the legs further.
- Tighten the locking nuts – Some washer feet have locking nuts. Make sure they are secure to prevent movement.
✅ Tip: If your washer sits on a wooden floor, place an anti-vibration mat underneath to reduce movement.
Step 3: Check for Worn or Broken Parts
If leveling and balancing the load don’t solve the problem, some internal parts may be worn out.
Parts to Check:
- Shock Absorbers (Front-Load Washers): These keep the drum steady during cycles. Worn-out shock absorbers need replacement.
- Suspension Rods (Top-Load Washers): If broken or loose, the drum will bounce excessively.
- Dampening Straps: Found in some models, these straps keep the drum stable. If torn, they should be replaced.
- Drive Belt: If loose or worn, it can cause excessive shaking.
If you are not comfortable checking these parts, contact a professional for help.
Step 4: Place the Washer on a Solid, Level Surface
Even if your washer is properly adjusted, it must sit on a solid, stable floor.
- Avoid placing it on a soft or uneven surface, like carpet.
- If your floor is slightly sloped, place anti-vibration pads under the washer legs to stabilize it.
- Check if the flooring itself is damaged or sinking, as this can affect washer balance.
How to Prevent Your Washer from Becoming Unbalanced
To keep your washer running smoothly and avoid future imbalance issues:
✔ Distribute clothes evenly inside the drum before starting a wash.
✔ Avoid overloading – Follow the machine’s capacity limits.
✔ Wash similar fabric types together – Mixing heavy towels with delicate clothes can cause imbalance.
✔ Check the level of the washer regularly and adjust if needed.
✔ Inspect suspension rods, shock absorbers, and belts every few months.
Conclusion
Now you know how to rebalance a washer and stop it from shaking, making noise, or moving across the floor. Regularly checking the load, leveling the washer, and inspecting internal parts can prevent bigger problems and extend your machine’s life.
If you’ve tried all these steps and your washer is still unbalanced, it may be time for professional repair or replacement. Keep your washer in top shape and enjoy a smooth, quiet laundry experience!
