A washing machine in good condition should operate with minimal noise and movement. While a bit of vibration during the spin cycle is normal, excessive shaking can be a sign of a problem. Not only can this damage the appliance over time, but it can also lead to poor washing results, noise disturbances, and even potential safety hazards. Two of the most common causes for this issue are an unbalanced load or worn shock absorbers.

Cause 1: Unbalanced Load

An unbalanced load occurs when laundry inside the drum is unevenly distributed. This imbalance forces the washing machine to work harder to maintain the spin cycle, causing the appliance to shake excessively.

Common scenarios that create an unbalanced load include:

• Washing a single large, heavy item (e.g., a blanket or rug). 
• Mixing heavy and lightweight items in the same cycle. 
• Overloading the drum with too many clothes. 
• Underloading the machine with too few clothes. 

When the load is unbalanced, the drum’s center of gravity shifts during spinning. As the spin speed increases, centrifugal force causes the drum to wobble and shake. Many modern washers have sensors that attempt to rebalance the load automatically, but they can only do so much.

How to fix it:

• Stop the cycle and redistribute the load evenly. 
• For bulky items, wash them with similar-sized pieces to balance weight distribution. 
• Avoid running the washer half-empty with just one or two heavy items. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s load capacity guidelines. 

Cause 2: Worn Shock Absorbers

If the shaking persists even with balanced loads, worn shock absorbers might be the culprit. Shock absorbers are designed to dampen the movement of the drum, especially during the high-speed spin cycle. Over time, these parts can wear out, lose their cushioning effect, and fail to stabilize the drum.

Signs of worn shock absorbers include:

• Loud banging noises during spinning. 
• Visible shaking of the entire machine, even with small loads. 
• Drum that moves excessively when pushed by hand. 

When shock absorbers are no longer functioning effectively, the washer’s internal components can experience unnecessary strain, potentially leading to further damage such as a broken suspension spring or cracked drum mounts.

How to fix it:
Replacing worn shock absorbers usually requires disassembling the machine, which can be complex. This is typically a job for a professional appliance technician, as it involves:

• Removing panels and accessing the drum assembly. 
• Inspecting and replacing all shock absorbers (usually replaced in pairs or sets). 
• Checking related suspension parts for wear. 

Additional Factors to Consider

While unbalanced loads and worn shock absorbers are the most common causes, other factors can also contribute to excessive vibration:

1. Uneven Floor Surface – If the washer is placed on an uneven surface, it can rock during operation. Adjusting the leveling feet can help. 
2. Loose Drum Bearings – Worn bearings can allow excess movement of the drum. 
3. Damaged Suspension Springs – Springs help support the weight of the drum; if they break, vibration increases. 
4. Transit Bolts Still Installed – New washing machines come with shipping bolts to secure the drum during transport. If not removed during installation, they can cause major vibration issues. 

Why Prompt Action is Important

Ignoring excessive shaking can lead to:

• Damage to internal components, including the motor and drum. 
• Loosening of hoses and fittings, leading to leaks. 
• Shortened appliance lifespan. 
• Risk of the washer moving during operation, which can cause accidents. 

Addressing the issue quickly not only improves washing performance but also protects your investment.

Prevention Tips

• Always load clothes evenly and avoid overstuffing. 
• Wash bulky items with other pieces to balance weight. 
• Check your machine’s leveling periodically. 
• Schedule regular maintenance to detect worn parts early. 

If your washing machine shakes excessively during the spin cycle, don’t ignore it. Start by checking for an unbalanced load, and if the problem continues, have the shock absorbers inspected by a professional. Early intervention can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your appliance.

For expert diagnosis and repair, contact Chula Vista Appliance Repair Company. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the cause of the problem—whether it’s worn shock absorbers, a damaged suspension system, or another issue—and restore your washing machine to smooth, quiet operation. Call us today to schedule service and keep your laundry routine running without disruption.

Contact us

(619) 880-5508