When your washing machine starts shaking like it’s about to launch into orbit, it’s more than just a noisy inconvenience — it’s a red flag that something isn’t quite right. A violently shaking washer can damage your flooring, shorten the lifespan of the appliance, and even lead to costly repairs if ignored for too long.
At Appliance Doctors, our washer and dryer repair experts know how important it is to catch these issues early. Below, we’ll break down the most common reasons your washer might be shaking uncontrollably and how to get things back to normal.
1. Uneven Load Distribution
One of the simplest and most common causes of a shaking washer is an unbalanced load. Washing a few heavy towels or a small load of jeans can cause the drum to spin unevenly. When the weight isn’t spread out, the washer struggles to maintain balance, leading to excessive movement during the spin cycle.
To fix this, try redistributing the clothes more evenly inside the drum or adding a few lightweight items to balance the load. If this doesn’t solve the problem and your washer still shakes every time it spins, the issue could be more mechanical.
2. Worn or Broken Shock Absorbers
Top-load and front-load washers are equipped with shock absorbers to reduce movement during the spin cycle. These components help stabilize the drum and absorb vibrations. Over time, however, they can wear out or break completely, especially with frequent use.
When the shock absorbers start to fail, you’ll notice the washer begins to shake, thump, or even walk across the floor. Replacing worn shocks can restore stability — but it’s not a DIY-friendly job for most homeowners. That’s where the experts at Appliance Doctors come in. We can inspect and replace damaged components quickly and safely.
3. Washer Not Level
A washer that isn’t sitting level on the floor is more prone to shake. It only takes one leg slightly out of alignment to throw the machine off balance, especially when the spin cycle hits high speeds. Hardwood or tile floors that aren’t perfectly flat can also contribute to this issue.
Check the appliance by gently rocking it from side to side and corner to corner. If you notice movement, you’ll likely need to adjust the legs or add anti-vibration pads. For more persistent issues, professional leveling might be necessary, especially if your floor slopes or flexes under the machine’s weight.
4. Suspension Springs or Rods Are Damaged
Inside your washer, a system of springs and rods works to support the drum and keep it centered during operation. If one of these suspension parts becomes damaged, stretched, or disconnected, your washer can wobble excessively. You may even hear loud banging or clunking noises when the washer shifts during the cycle.
Because these internal components are difficult to access and require careful calibration, it’s best to have a trained technician handle the repair. The team at Appliance Doctors can diagnose the problem quickly and replace any worn suspension parts to keep your machine running smoothly.
5. Other Potential Issues: Bearings, Counterweights, and Shipping Bolts
While the causes above are the most common, there are a few other culprits worth mentioning:
- Drum bearings may wear out over time, causing the drum to spin unevenly and rattle.
- Counterweights inside the washer may become loose or damaged, throwing off the internal balance.
- Shipping bolts on a new washer may not have been removed. These are used to secure the drum during transit but must be taken out before use.
All of these issues can cause violent shaking, and all require professional attention. Ignoring them could lead to further damage or a complete washer breakdown.
Get Your Washer Back on Track with Appliance Doctors
A shaking washer isn’t just annoying — it’s a warning sign that something needs to be fixed. Whether it’s a simple balancing issue or a more complex internal repair, the professionals at Appliance Doctors are here to help. Our experienced technicians know how to get to the root of the problem fast, saving you time, money, and headaches down the line.
Don’t let a shaky washer disrupt your laundry day. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and restore peace and quiet to your laundry room!
