How to balance a washing machine in 4 easy steps
By Jordana Weiss•Last updated Jul 26, 2023
Last updated Jul 26, 2023
By Jordana WeissHave you noticed your washing machine vibrating, shaking, making excessive noise or acting like it’s about to walk right out of your laundry room? If so, your washing machine is likely out of balance or unleveled. It’s not hard for a washing machine to lose contact with the floor and become unbalanced. Thankfully, this is a pretty easy washer repair project you can DIY. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why this problem occurs. Keep reading to learn how you can quickly fix an unbalanced washer to restore peace and quiet to your laundry room.
How to level and balance your washing machine
If the feet on your washing machine have become uneven, they can easily throw the whole appliance out of balance. Fortunately, balancing a washer by adjusting the feet is pretty straightforward.
Check your owner's manual for specific instructions first. If you can't find steps for your specific washer, here are some general steps to follow:
1. Gather your tools
First, gather your tools and supplies. To make this quick fix, you’ll need:
- A level
- A wrench that fits the locking nuts on your washer feet
- Adjustable pliers
2. Check the shipping bolts
If your washer is new, check to make sure you have removed the shipping bolts.
The four shipping bolts are usually at the back of your machine, whether it's a front-load or top-load washer. They help keep the interior parts from shifting in transit. Before moving on, make sure all four bolts are removed.
3. Check that the machine is level
Place your level on top of the washing machine to check whether it is level.
If it is level and the washer is still making a loud noise when operating, it’s time to call a professional to diagnose the issue. The problem could be related to shock absorbers or other components that have come loose. In some cases, loose components can create off-balanced drums that cause loud clanking, grinding, or banging noises.
4. Adjust the washing machine's feet
After determining that your washing machine is not level, you’ll need to adjust the feet. Depending on the type of washing machine you have, use pliers or a wrench.
Slowly and carefully adjust each foot so it makes secure contact with the ground. Adjust from side to side, then level the washer from front to back.
Tip: If your washing machine is on a pedestal, make sure the washer is securely bolted on. Also make sure no locking nuts are loose.
What happens if your washer is not level?
It may not seem like a big issue, but an unbalanced washing machine can cause several problems.
A certain amount of shaking or vibration, especially during a spin cycle, is expected in a washing machine. However, excessive movement can potentially harm your washer. This puts stress on components that are not designed to move that way.
Even if this doesn’t cause visible damage right away, it adds excessive wear and tear to your machine, shortening its useful life. The shaking and vibration can also damage your floors and the walls around your washer.
What else causes a washer to shake and make excessive noises?
A few things can cause a washing machine to be unbalanced and unleveled:
- Overloaded washer. The load in your washer may be too heavy. Try running a smaller load.
- Issues with the feet. Another issue that can cause your washer to be unbalanced is an unlevel washing machine. This happens when one or more of the feet on your washing machine are not making firm contact with the floor. If you notice your washing machine shaking or vibrating heavily, even on light wash cycles, this is most likely the reason.
- Failing to remove the shipping bolts from your machine before use. If these remain attached, they can make your washer vibrate.
- Washing a single bulky item by itself. Avoid washing a single bulky item by itself. If you need to wash something heavier, like curtains, throw in small items like towels to help balance the load.
- The washer drum has become loose. When this happens, it can bang against the outer tub.
Find a washing machine repair professional near you
If your top- or front-loading washer is too heavy to manage alone, or if you need to troubleshoot an additional issue, it may be best to hire a professional.
Download Thumbtack today to start receiving free cost estimates from washing machine repair professionals near you.
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