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A washing machine that shakes violently or vibrates excessively during the wash or spin cycle isn’t just an annoyance — it’s often a sign of a mechanical issue that can lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed. If your appliance seems to dance across the laundry room floor, it’s likely suffering from one of two common issues: worn shock absorbers or an unbalanced load.

Understanding the Role of Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers in washing machines are designed to dampen the movement of the drum during the high-speed spin cycle. Their job is to keep the drum stable and reduce excessive movement that can occur when the load is unevenly distributed or the machine is spinning rapidly.

Over time, like in any appliance with moving parts, these shock absorbers can wear out. When this happens, they lose their ability to properly absorb the motion of the drum, resulting in excessive vibration. You might notice louder noise levels, the machine shifting slightly from its position, or the drum banging against the cabinet walls.

Worn shocks don’t just make your machine noisy—they put extra strain on other internal components. Over time, this can cause damage to the drum support system, suspension springs, and even the outer housing of the washer. If you see oil leaking from the shocks or notice visible cracks, it’s a clear sign they need to be replaced.

The Problem with an Unbalanced Load

An unbalanced load is another frequent cause of excessive vibration. This typically occurs when the weight of the laundry inside the drum is not evenly distributed. It often happens when washing heavy items like blankets, towels, or jackets without pairing them with other pieces to balance the drum.

Washing one large item or overloading the washer can cause it to lose its balance. As the drum spins at high speed, the uneven distribution causes it to wobble, resulting in loud banging, excessive movement, or even the washer “walking” across the room.

Some modern washing machines are equipped with automatic load sensors and will try to correct the imbalance by redistributing the load or stopping the cycle altogether. However, if you frequently encounter balance issues, it might be time to check if something deeper is wrong—like the suspension system or drum support.

Additional Causes to Consider

While worn shocks and unbalanced loads are the leading causes, there are other factors that may contribute to excessive vibration:

  • Uneven floor surface: A washing machine placed on a sloped or uneven floor can easily rock back and forth during use. Always ensure your washer is on a level surface and that the feet are properly adjusted. 
  • Loose transit bolts: If your machine is new and the transit bolts weren’t removed during installation, they can prevent the drum from moving freely, causing violent vibrations. 
  • Worn suspension springs or dampening straps: In top-load washers, these components help stabilize the drum. If they become stretched or broken, vibration can increase significantly. 
  • Overloading: Stuffing the drum beyond its recommended capacity stresses the suspension and creates a severely imbalanced spin cycle. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for load size. 

What You Can Do at Home

If you’re dealing with frequent or intense vibrations, start by checking a few basic things:

  1. Redistribute the load: Pause the cycle and rearrange the items inside the drum more evenly. 
  2. Level the machine: Use a spirit level to ensure all four feet are stable. Adjust the feet if needed. 
  3. Inspect for wear: Check for any visible signs of damage to the shock absorbers or suspension springs. 

If these simple fixes don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Professional Inspection and Repair

Trying to repair worn shock absorbers or suspension systems yourself can be challenging and potentially risky if you’re unfamiliar with the internal mechanics of your washing machine. These components often require partial disassembly and specialized tools.

That’s where professional help comes in.

At Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company, our expert technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing all major washer brands and models. Whether you’re dealing with worn shock absorbers, a broken suspension system, or recurring unbalanced loads, we’ll get your appliance back to smooth, quiet operation quickly and affordably.

Don’t let a vibrating washer shake up your peace of mind. Reach out to Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company today for fast, reliable service you can count on.

 

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(619) 880-5508

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