How to Balance a Washing Machine and Stop It From Shaking
Washing machines, no matter how dependable, can sometimes shake or vibrate more than they should. This usually points to an uneven unit, which not only affects how well it works but can also make your laundry space less comfortable. Luckily, correcting the balance is usually straightforward and doesn’t often require professional help.
This guide walks you through the process of stabilizing your washer. For the drum to spin smoothly, the appliance must be level. That may mean adjusting the height of its legs if the floor is uneven. In addition, the way you place clothes inside can influence whether the washer stays balanced throughout the cycle.
1. Level the Surface
Start by making sure your washer is positioned on a firm, level base. A solid, even floor works best, while soft or irregular surfaces such as carpet or uneven tiles should be avoided. If the machine sits on an unstable foundation, it can throw off the spin cycle and put extra strain on the appliance over time.
2. Adjust the Feet
Lightly nudge the washer from various sides to check if it stands firm. If it shifts or rocks, the leveling legs need adjustment. These are found at the bottom and can be rotated—tightening will lift the machine, loosening will lower it. Make small, careful changes to each leg until the appliance rests evenly and securely.
3. Use a Level
For accurate alignment, set a spirit level or digital level tool on the top of the washer. This allows you to see whether the appliance is even from front to back and side to side. If it’s off balance, fine-tune the adjustable legs until the indicator shows a centered reading. Taking this step helps reduce shaking and loud noises while the machine spins.
4. Tighten the Lock Nuts
After making sure the washer is properly leveled, lock the feet in place so they don’t move over time. This is done by tightening the securing nuts near the bottom of each leg. Fastening these nuts keeps the feet steady, ensuring the machine stays balanced while running.
5. Load It Evenly
A key factor in keeping a washer balanced is the way clothes are arranged inside. Spreading items evenly around the drum helps prevent the machine from going off balance. If heavier pieces are grouped on one side, the weight becomes uneven, which can cause the spin cycle to shake or wobble.
6. Mix Heavy and Light Items
When filling the washer, combine bulky pieces with lighter clothing to keep the weight balanced. For example, rather than washing a large item such as a blanket on its own, add smaller garments to offset the load. This approach helps the drum spin more steadily and reduces noise during the cycle.
7. Use a Balancing Kit (Optional)
Certain washers are equipped with a special balance kit to improve stability while running. If your model has one, it can be very helpful in keeping the machine steady. SD Appliance Repair. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to install and use the kit correctly for the best performance.
8. Inspect It Regularly
Keeping a washer properly balanced isn’t just a single task—it should be checked regularly to maintain stability. Whenever the machine is moved, it’s especially important to reassess its level. Inspect the adjustable feet to make sure they’re secure and the appliance sits evenly on the floor.
Consistently maintaining balance helps the washer run more quietly and efficiently while reducing wear on its parts, ultimately extending its lifespan.
Balancing a Washer Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
Leveling a washing machine is generally an easy task you can handle yourself. Still, there are situations where getting a professional’s help makes sense.
If moving or adjusting the washer is too difficult to do alone, it’s wise to hire an SD Appliance Repair technician. Likewise, if you’ve balanced the load carefully but the machine continues to wobble, a professional may be needed.
Repair costs for such issues typically range from $90 to $190, depending on the problem and your area.
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