Why Does My Washing Machine Shake Like Crazy and What Can I Do About It?

ByArnould Eric Updated

Why Does My Washing Machine Shake Like Crazy?

My washing machine may shake like crazy due to excessive shaking during the spin cycle.

This can result in the machine walking across the floor, thumping, banging, and producing loud vibrations.

These issues can be caused by potential problems with the washing machine itself.

However, proper installation and usage can minimize shaking.

Manufacturers like Maytag offer washers with Advanced Vibration Control™, featuring powerful shock absorbers that help minimize noise and reduce shaking.

Key Points:

  • Washing machine may shake due to excessive shaking during spin cycle
  • Result may include machine walking across the floor, thumping, banging, and loud vibrations
  • Potential problems with the washing machine can cause these issues
  • Proper installation and usage can minimize shaking
  • Manufacturers like Maytag offer washers with Advanced Vibration Control™
  • These washers have powerful shock absorbers that help minimize noise and reduce shaking

Did You Know?

1. The first washing machine was invented in the late 18th century by H. Sidgier, who developed a contraption that used a rotating drum and manual labor to clean clothes. It wasn’t until the 1940s, with the introduction of automatic electric washing machines, that the shaking phenomenon became more common.

2. The excessive shaking of a washing machine can often be attributed to an imbalance in the load. If the clothes inside are distributed unevenly, it causes the drum to spin unevenly as well, resulting in a shaking and bouncing effect.

3. Another cause of a shaking washing machine can be traced back to the leveling of the appliance. If the machine isn’t sitting on a flat surface, it can become unstable while operating, causing it to shake excessively.

4. A malfunctioning shock absorber or suspension system can also contribute to the shaking of a washing machine. These parts are designed to cushion the vibrations caused by the drum’s rotation, but when they fail, the machine can shake violently.

5. The centrifugal force generated by a spinning washing machine drum can reach remarkable levels. In fact, some high-speed models can generate upwards of 900 times the force of gravity on the clothes inside, which, if not balanced correctly, can lead to an alarming shaking experience.

Excessive Shaking During The Spin Cycle

Experiencing excessive shaking during the spin cycle of your washing machine can be frustrating and concerning. It not only causes noise but can also lead to movement across the floor, potential damage to the machine and nearby objects, and even risk of injury. Understanding the reasons behind this shaking can help you identify and address the issue effectively.

Possible reasons for excessive shaking during the spin cycle:

  • An unbalanced load: When loading the machine, it’s crucial to distribute the clothes evenly. If the weight is concentrated on one side of the drum, it can cause the machine to become imbalanced during the spinning process, resulting in violent shaking. To prevent this, make sure to evenly distribute the clothes and consider using a leveling spirit level to ensure the machine is even.

  • Worn-out or damaged shock absorber: Shock absorbers are responsible for cushioning the vibrations generated by the spinning motion. Over time, they can wear out or get damaged, causing the machine to shake more than usual. If you suspect this is the issue, it’s advisable to contact a professional technician to inspect and replace the shock absorbers if necessary.

In summary, excessive shaking during the spin cycle of a washing machine can be caused by an unbalanced load or worn-out/damaged shock absorbers. Ensuring proper load distribution and addressing any shock absorber issues can help resolve the shaking problem and prevent further damage or risk of injury.

  • It’s important to note that if you are unsure about how to address the issue, it is always best to consult a professional technician to avoid any potential damage to the machine or yourself.
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Walking Across The Floor

If your washing machine seems to have a mind of its own and starts walking across the floor during operation, it can be an alarming sight. Not only can it damage the machine itself, but it can also cause damage to the floor, nearby furniture, and walls. There are several reasons why this might be happening, and it’s essential to address them promptly to avoid any further issues.

One possible cause of the walking motion is an unlevel machine. Washing machines should be leveled properly during installation to ensure stability. If your machine is not level, it can cause it to rock back and forth, leading to walking across the floor. To fix this, you can adjust the leveling feet on the bottom of the machine by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise until the machine is level.

Another reason for the walking motion is weak or damaged anti-vibration pads. These pads are located underneath the washing machine and help absorb the vibrations generated during the spin cycle. If these pads are worn out or damaged, they may not be able to effectively minimize the vibrations, causing the machine to walk across the floor. In such cases, replacing the pads can help resolve the issue.

Thumping

If your washing machine produces a thumping noise during operation, it can be both frustrating and worrisome. Thumping can be caused by various factors, and identifying the exact cause is essential in order to address the issue effectively.

One potential reason for thumping is an unbalanced load. Similar to the excessive shaking discussed earlier, loading the machine unevenly can cause the drum to become imbalanced during the spinning process. This imbalance results in thumping noises as the drum hits against the sides of the machine. Ensuring that the load is evenly distributed can help reduce thumping.

Another possible cause of thumping is a loose drum or tub. The drum is where the clothes are placed for washing, and if it becomes loose or misaligned, it can cause thumping during the spin cycle. If you suspect this to be the issue, it’s recommended to consult a professional technician to inspect and tighten the drum properly.

Banging

If your washing machine is producing loud banging noises, it can be alarming and can indicate a more serious issue. Banging can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding them is crucial for resolving the problem effectively.

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One common reason for banging is the presence of foreign objects inside the drum. Items such as coins, buttons, or other debris left in the clothes can become lodged between the drum and the walls of the machine. During the spin cycle, these objects can cause banging noises as they move around. To prevent this issue, it’s important to check the pockets of your clothes before washing them.

Another possible cause is a loose or broken part within the machine. Components such as the drum support spider or suspension springs can become loose or damaged over time, leading to banging noises during operation. If you suspect this to be the case, it’s recommended to have a professional technician replace these parts to resolve the issue.

To summarize:

  • Check for foreign objects inside the drum by inspecting the pockets of your clothes.
  • If you suspect a loose or broken part, contact a professional technician to replace the affected components.

Loud Vibrations

Experiencing loud vibrations from your washing machine can be disruptive and cause concern. Aside from being annoying, loud vibrations can also indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

One reason for loud vibrations is improper installation. If your machine is not installed correctly, it may not be level, causing it to vibrate excessively during operation. Checking the leveling of the machine and ensuring it is on a stable surface can help minimize vibrations.

Another possible cause is an overloaded machine. Overstuffing the machine with clothes can increase the weight placed on the drum, leading to excessive vibrations. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding load capacity to prevent this issue. Distributing the clothes evenly throughout the drum can also help reduce vibrations.

  • Improper installation: Check the leveling of the machine and ensure it is on a stable surface.
  • Overloaded machine: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding load capacity and distribute clothes evenly throughout the drum.

Potential Issue With The Washing Machine

If your washing machine continues to shake excessively and produce loud noises, even after checking for the previously mentioned causes, it’s possible that there is an underlying issue with the machine itself. In such cases, it’s recommended to reach out to a professional technician or the manufacturer’s customer service for assistance.

Some washing machine brands, such as Maytag, offer models with Advanced Vibration Control™. These machines are equipped with powerful shock absorbers and other features designed to minimize noise and vibrations during operation. Investing in a washing machine with advanced vibration control can provide a more stable and quiet washing experience.

Excessive shaking, walking across the floor, thumping, banging, and loud vibrations during the spin cycle of a washing machine can be indicative of various issues. Proper installation and usage, such as distributing the load evenly and ensuring the machine is level, can help minimize these problems.

If the issues persist, it’s advisable to consult a professional technician or the manufacturer for assistance in diagnosing and resolving the problem.

  • Properly install and level the washing machine
  • Distribute the load evenly
  • Consider investing in a washing machine with Advanced Vibration Control™
  • Consult a professional technician or the manufacturer for assistance

“If your washing machine continues to shake excessively and produce loud noises, even after checking for the previously mentioned causes, it’s possible that there is an underlying issue with the machine itself.”

Check this out:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my washing machine shake violently when spinning?

If your washing machine is shaking violently, the most likely reason is an imbalance caused by either an overloaded washer or a bulky item inside. When the washer is overloaded, it causes an imbalance during the spin cycle, resulting in violent shaking. Similarly, if a bulky item like a heavy blanket or a large pair of shoes is not evenly distributed inside the drum, it can throw the washer off balance and create excessive shaking. It’s important to ensure that you properly distribute the load and avoid overloading the machine to maintain its stability during the spin cycle.

Another potential cause of violent shaking is an unlevel or unbalanced washer due to improper installation or uneven floors. If the washing machine was not properly installed or if the floors are not even, it can lead to instability during operation. In such cases, adjusting the machine’s feet to make it level or placing a leveling pad underneath the washer can help minimize the shaking. It is important to address these issues to not only prevent damage to the machine but also to ensure a smooth and efficient laundry experience.

Why is my washing machine noisy vibrating?

Your washing machine may be noisy and vibrating due to an issue with its levelling. It is important to check if the appliance’s four levelling adjustment feet are evenly and firmly on the floor. If the washing machine is not level, you can lift it slightly and adjust the lowest levelling foot to resolve the excess noise and vibration. By ensuring proper levelling, the washing machine will operate smoother and quieter, providing a more efficient laundry experience.

Why is my LG washing machine shaking like crazy?

If your LG washing machine is shaking like crazy, it may be due to an imbalance caused by uneven legs. Make sure to confirm that the washer is level by rocking it to the front, back, and sides. If you feel any shaking, use a wrench to adjust the legs on the affected side(s) until the washer is stable. Additionally, check that the tub is centered and not leaning to one side as this can also cause excessive shaking during operation.

Is it OK for washing machine to shake?

A certain degree of vibration is expected during the operation of a washing machine, as it agitates and spins the laundry. However, excessive shaking can indicate an issue with the machine’s balance. It is not okay for a washing machine to continuously shake, as it can lead to potential damage to both the appliance and surrounding surfaces. To resolve this problem, it is important to ensure that the machine is standing level and balanced on its feet. By checking the flooring and the appliance’s feet for unevenness and adjusting them accordingly, you can maintain a properly functioning washing machine without unnecessary shaking.

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