Why Is My Washer Shaking Or Making Noise? Is your washer making an unseemly ruckus or vibrating violently during its cycles? If so, you are not alone in facing this predicament. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why your washer might be shaking or making noise, and provide valuable insights on how to address and rectify these issues. By gaining a better understanding of the various factors contributing to this inconvenience, you will be equipped to restore tranquility to your laundry room and ensure a smoother, quieter laundry experience.
Common causes of shaking
Unbalanced load
An unbalanced load is a common cause of shaking in a washing machine. When the load inside a washer is not evenly distributed, it can cause the machine to vibrate and shake during the spin cycle. Overloading the washer or having a mixture of heavy and lightweight items can increase the chances of an unbalanced load.
Worn shock absorbers
Shock absorbers are an essential component of a washing machine as they help to absorb the vibrations generated during the wash and spin cycles. Over time, these shock absorbers can wear out and lose their effectiveness, resulting in increased shaking and vibration. Age and excessive vibration during the spin cycle are the primary factors that contribute to the wear and tear of shock absorbers.
Loose or worn drive belt
A loose or worn drive belt can also cause a washing machine to shake. The drive belt is responsible for rotating the drum, and if it becomes loose or stretched, it can cause an imbalanced rotation, leading to vibrations and shaking. Additionally, a slipping or misaligned belt can create noise and contribute to the overall disturbance during operation.
Leveling issues
Proper leveling is crucial for the smooth operation of a washing machine. If the appliance is placed on an uneven floor or if it is not properly leveled, it can result in excessive shaking and vibrations. Even minor discrepancies in leveling can disrupt the stability of the machine during the spin cycle. Faulty adjustable legs can also contribute to leveling issues.
Damaged drum
A damaged drum can be another reason behind the shaking of a washing machine. Cracks or breaks in the drum can disrupt the balance and stability of the machine, causing it to vibrate and shake during operation. Loose or damaged drum bearings can also contribute to this problem. Additionally, foreign objects such as coins, buttons, or small items that get stuck in the drum can create an imbalance, leading to shaking and noise.
Unbalanced load as a cause of shaking
Overloading the washer
One of the most common reasons for an unbalanced load is overloading the washer. When you put too many clothes or bedding into the machine, it becomes difficult for it to distribute the weight evenly. This imbalance can lead to shaking and vibrating during the spin cycle. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on load capacity to avoid overloading.
Uneven distribution of clothes
Another factor that can cause an unbalanced load is the uneven distribution of clothes inside the washing machine. If all the heavy items are placed on one side, or if they are clumped together, it can create an imbalance. To prevent this, it is important to distribute the clothes evenly around the drum so that the weight is distributed uniformly.
Mixing heavy and lightweight items
Mixing heavy and lightweight items in a single load can also contribute to an unbalanced load. The difference in weight and size between these items can cause the machine to shake and vibrate. It is recommended to separate heavy items like towels and jeans from lighter ones like t-shirts and delicates to achieve a more balanced load.
Worn shock absorbers as a cause of shaking
Age and usage
As a washing machine is used over time, the shock absorbers that dampen the vibrations can wear out. Continuous usage and the repetitive motion of the drum during the wash and spin cycles can lead to the deterioration of these components. As the shock absorbers become weak and less effective, the machine will experience increased shaking and vibrations.
Excessive vibration during spin cycle
If the washing machine produces excessive vibration during the spin cycle, it can put additional strain on the shock absorbers, causing them to wear out faster. This can occur due to an unbalanced load, loose or worn drive belt, or leveling issues. It is essential to address these underlying issues to prevent further damage to the shock absorbers and reduce shaking and noise.
Loose or worn drive belt as a cause of shaking
Slipping or stretched belt
A loose or stretched drive belt can disrupt the rotation of the drum, leading to shaking and vibrations. If the belt is slipping or not properly tensioned, it will cause an imbalanced rotation, resulting in the machine shaking during operation. Regular inspection and maintenance of the drive belt can help identify and address these issues promptly.
Imbalanced rotation of the drum
A worn or misaligned drive belt can also cause the rotation of the drum to become imbalanced. This imbalance leads to increased vibrations and shaking during the wash and spin cycles. It is important to ensure that the drive belt is properly aligned and in good condition to maintain the smooth operation of the machine.
Leveling issues as a cause of shaking
Uneven floor
Placing a washing machine on an uneven floor can disrupt its stability and lead to shaking during operation. If the floor is not level, one or more legs of the machine may be off the ground, causing an imbalance. It is advisable to place the washing machine on a level surface to ensure proper stability and reduce vibrations.
Improper leveling of the washer
Even if the floor is level, incorrect leveling of the washer itself can cause shaking. Most washing machines have adjustable legs that can be used to level the appliance. If these legs are not correctly adjusted, the machine may not be stable, leading to shaking and vibrations. Properly adjusting the legs to ensure even contact with the floor can help resolve this issue.
Faulty adjustable legs
In some cases, the adjustable legs of a washing machine may be faulty or damaged, leading to leveling issues. If these legs cannot be properly adjusted, it can affect the stability of the machine during operation. Replacing or repairing the faulty legs can help restore proper leveling and reduce shaking and vibrations.
Damaged drum as a cause of shaking
Cracked or broken drum
A cracked or broken drum can significantly impact the balance and stability of a washing machine. When the drum is damaged, it may not rotate smoothly, leading to shaking and vibrations. Damaged drums can occur due to wear and tear over time or as a result of accidentally hitting the drum with a foreign object. It is crucial to address any visible damage to the drum promptly to prevent further complications.
Loose or damaged drum bearings
Drum bearings are responsible for facilitating the smooth rotation of the drum. If these bearings become loose or damaged, it can disrupt the balance of the machine and cause shaking during operation. Regular maintenance and inspection of the drum bearings can help detect any issues early on and prevent further damage.
Foreign objects stuck in the drum
Foreign objects, such as coins, buttons, or small items, can become lodged in the drum of a washing machine. When the machine operates with these objects inside, it can create an imbalance, leading to shaking and noise. It is important to check and remove any foreign objects from the drum to restore the balance and prevent further damage.
Common causes of noise
Loose parts
Loose parts within the washing machine can generate noise during operation. These loose components, such as the agitator or impeller, tub mounting bolts, or the dispenser, can rattle or vibrate against other parts, resulting in noise. Regular inspection and tightening of these parts can help reduce or eliminate the noise.
Worn out drive belt
A worn-out drive belt can also contribute to the noise produced by a washing machine. As the belt deteriorates, it can create a squealing or grinding sound during operation. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of the drive belt can help minimize noise and ensure smooth operation.
Faulty motor
A faulty motor can produce excessive noise during the operation of a washing machine. If the motor bearings are worn out or if there are issues with the motor itself, it can lead to unusual sounds. In such cases, professional repair or motor replacement may be required to resolve the noise issue.
Low-quality or damaged bearings
The bearings in a washing machine help reduce friction and ensure smooth rotation of various components. If these bearings are of low quality or become damaged, they can produce noise during operation. Regular maintenance and lubrication of bearings can help prolong their lifespan and prevent noise-related issues.
Foreign objects in the drum
Foreign objects trapped inside the drum can cause a variety of noises during operation. Coins, buttons, zippers, or loose fasteners can rattle or bang against the drum, generating noise. It is crucial to check and remove any foreign objects from the drum to eliminate the noise and prevent damage to the machine.
In conclusion, understanding the common causes of shaking and noise in a washing machine can help diagnose and address these issues effectively. Unbalanced loads, worn shock absorbers, loose or worn drive belts, leveling problems, and damaged drums are frequent culprits behind shaking. On the other hand, loose parts, worn-out drive belts, faulty motors, low-quality or damaged bearings, and foreign objects in the drum are common causes of noise. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and timely repairs can ensure the smooth and quiet operation of your washing machine.