Washing machines are a modern convenience that we rely on heavily to clean our clothes efficiently. However, sometimes they can become unbalanced, causing them to vibrate, make loud noises, and even damage themselves or surrounding objects.
This blog will explore the leading causes of an unbalanced washing machine and provide six easy solutions.
Why is a Washing Machine Unbalanced?
1. Unbalanced Loads
One of the leading causes of an unbalanced washing machine is uneven loading. If the clothing in the drum is not distributed equally, the device will spin unevenly and become shaky.
2. Worn or Damaged Suspension Springs
Your machine’s suspension springs help absorb the movement during a spin cycle. If these springs are worn or damaged, the device can become unbalanced.
3. Damaged Shock Absorbers
Similar to suspension springs, shock absorbers help reduce the machine’s movement during a spin cycle. If these are damaged, the machine can become unbalanced.
4. Overloading
Overloading your machine can cause it to become unbalanced. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how much laundry to put in the machine.
5. Leveling Issues
If it is not level, it can cause it to become unbalanced. Use a level to check your machine’s balance and adjust the feet if necessary.
6. Damaged Drum Bearings
If your machine’s drum bearings are damaged, it can cause the machine to become unbalanced during a wash cycle.
How to Fix an Unbalanced Washing Machine?
1. Reload the Machine
Reloading the machine is a simple and effective way to fix an unbalanced washer. It is often caused by unevenly distributed clothing items in the drum. When clothes are not evenly distributed in the drum, it can cause the machine to spin unevenly and become unbalanced.
This can cause the machine to make loud noises and vibrate, which can be annoying and damaging to the device.
To reload the machine:
- Stop the cycle and unplug the device to ensure safety.
- Open the washing machine door and redistribute the clothes evenly in the drum.
- Ensure that the weight of the clothes is distributed evenly throughout the drum.
For example, avoid putting all the heavy items on one side of the drum and lighter items on the other.
After redistributing the clothes, close the door and start the cycle again. Observe the machine as it runs to ensure it is running smoothly without any noise or vibration.
If the problem persists, consider other possible causes, such as worn suspension springs, damaged shock absorbers, or level issues.
Reloading the machine is a simple and effective solution that can save time and money, as it does not require any replacement parts or professional help. It is also a good practice to avoid overloading the machine to prevent unbalancing from happening in the first place.
2. Replace Suspension Springs
Suspension springs are essential, as they help absorb the drum’s movement during a wash cycle and give a balance washing machine.
When these springs are worn or damaged, it can cause the machine to become unbalanced, leading to loud noises, vibration, and potential damage.
To replace suspension springs, you must first unplug the machine and ensure it is completely disconnected from any power source. Next, remove the back panel of the washing machine to access the suspension springs.
You may need to use a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove any screws or bolts holding the panel in place.
Once you have access to the suspension springs, remove the old ones and replace them with new ones. Be sure to use the correct replacement springs for your specific machine model.
Attach the new suspension springs to the hooks on the washing machine’s frame and the drum to install them.
After replacing the suspension springs, replace the back panel and screw it back in place. Plug in the washing machine and test it to ensure it runs smoothly without any noise or vibration.
Replacing suspension springs can be a more complex solution to fix an unbalanced washer than other solutions such as reloading or leveling the machine.
It may require some mechanical knowledge and tools, but it can save money compared to calling in a professional repair service.
3. Replace Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers are another critical component of a washing machine that helps reduce the drum’s movement during a wash cycle.
When the shock absorbers are damaged, it can cause the machine to become unbalanced and result in excessive noise and vibration.
First, unplug the washing machine to replace the shock absorbers and ensure that it is disconnected from any power source.
Next, remove the back panel of the washing machine to access the shock absorbers. You may need to use a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove any screws or bolts holding the panel in place.
Once you have access to the shock absorbers, remove the old ones and replace them with new ones. It’s essential to use the correct replacement shock absorbers for your specific washing machine model.
Attach the new shock absorbers to the hooks on the washing machine’s frame and the drum to install them.
After replacing the shock absorbers, replace the back panel and screw it back in place. Plug in the washing machine and test it to ensure it runs smoothly without any noise or vibration.
Replacing shock absorbers can be a more complicated solution to fix an unbalanced washing machine than other solutions, such as reloading or leveling the machine.
It may require some mechanical knowledge and tools, but it can save money compared to calling in a professional repair service.
4. Don’t Overload
Overloading your washing machine is a common cause of unbalancing. Putting too many clothes into the washing machine can cause it to spin unevenly, leading to audible noises, excessive vibrations, and potential damage to the device.
To avoid this problem, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how much laundry load to put in the machine.
The capacity of a washing machine varies depending on the model and brand. Generally, front-loading machines have a larger capacity compared to top-loading washing machines.
It’s essential to know the maximum load capacity of your washing machine to avoid overloading it.
When loading the washing machine, ensure that the weight of the clothes is evenly distributed throughout the drum. Avoid putting all the heavy items on one side of the drum and lighter items on the other. Instead, try to distribute the clothes as evenly as possible.
Overloading can also put extra strain on the suspension springs and shock absorbers, which can cause them to wear out more quickly. This can result in more frequent repairs and replacements, which can be at a higher cost.
5. Level the Machine
Leveling the washing machine is an essential step in fixing an unbalanced machine. If the washing machine is not level, it can cause it to become unstable during a wash cycle, resulting in loud noises, vibration, and potential damage to the device.
To level the washing machine, first unplug the machine and turn off the water supply. Next, use a spirit level to check if the device is level.
Place the spirit level on the machine, first side-to-side and then front-to-back. If the bubble on the spirit level is not centered, adjust the feet of the device until it is level. Most washing machines have adjustable feet that can be raised or lowered to level the machine.
Once you have leveled the machine, check if the washing machine drum is centered. If the drum is not centered, it can cause the device to become unbalanced during a wash cycle. To center the drum, adjust the feet of the device until the drum is centered.
After leveling the machine and centering the drum, plug the machine back in and turn on the water supply. Start a wash cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
If the problem persists, consider other possible causes, such as worn suspension springs, damaged shock absorbers, or overloading.
6. Replace Drum Bearings
Drum bearings play a critical role in the operation of a washing machine. They support the drum and allow it to spin smoothly during a wash cycle.
Replacing drum bearings is a more complex and time-consuming solution to fix an unbalanced washing machine than other solutions such as reloading or leveling the machine.
It involves some mechanical expertise and tools, and it is better to obtain professional assistance if you doubt your ability.
To replace drum bearings, you must first unplug the washing machine and ensure it is completely disconnected from any power source. Next, remove the back panel of the washing machine to access the drum bearings.
You may need to use a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove any screws or bolts holding the panel in place.
Once you have access to the drum bearings, remove the old bearings and replace them with new ones. Be sure to use the correct replacement bearings for your specific model.
To install the new drum bearings, you must remove the drum from the washing machine, which can be complex. Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully or seeking professional help is best.
After replacing the drum bearings, reassemble the washing machine and plug it back in. Start a wash cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
