How to Level a Washing Machine: Stop the Shaking and Vibration
A washing machine that vibrates excessively during the spin cycle isn't just noisy — it can walk across the floor, damage floor coverings and stress the internal components over time. The most common cause is a machine that isn't sitting level on the floor. Levelling your washing machine is a simple DIY task that takes about 15 minutes and requires only a spirit level and an adjustable spanner or pliers.
Why Levelling Matters
Washing machine drums spin at up to 1400 rpm. At this speed, even a small imbalance creates significant vibration. If the machine isn't level, the drum assembly can hit the cabinet walls, causing noise, vibration and premature wear on bearings, drum seals and suspension springs.
What You'll Need
- A spirit level (a small torpedo level works well)
- An adjustable spanner or pliers
- A helper to tilt the machine (optional but helpful)
Step 1: Check if the Machine is Level
Place a spirit level on top of the washing machine, first side-to-side, then front-to-back. The bubble should sit in the centre of the vial in both directions. If the bubble is off to one side, the machine is not level in that direction.
Step 2: Identify the Adjustable Feet
All washing machines have adjustable feet at the front. Most front-loaders and many top-loaders also have adjustable or self-adjusting rear feet. The front feet are typically threaded studs locked in place with a locknut.
Step 3: Adjust the Front Feet
- Loosen the locknut on the foot that needs adjustment (turn anticlockwise when looking up at it from below)
- Turn the foot itself to raise or lower it: clockwise to raise the corner, anticlockwise to lower it
- Recheck with the spirit level
- When level, re-tighten the locknut firmly against the base of the machine
Step 4: Adjust the Rear Feet (if applicable)
Many washing machines have self-adjusting rear feet that lower when you tip the front of the machine up and release it. With the front feet adjusted, tip the front of the machine up approximately 10cm, then lower it back to the floor. The rear feet should lock at the right height. For machines with manually adjustable rear feet, adjust them the same way as the front feet.
Step 5: Check All Four Corners
Rock the machine gently by pushing opposite corners — if it rocks diagonally, one foot isn't making proper contact. All four feet should bear weight evenly. Re-check the spirit level after rocking.
Additional Tips
- Anti-vibration mat: Even a well-levelled machine can vibrate on a smooth tile or laminate floor. An anti-vibration mat (rubber mat designed for washing machines) dramatically reduces transmitted vibration and noise. Available at hardware stores for about $20–40.
- Unbalanced loads: If the machine is level and still vibrates heavily on spin, the load may be unbalanced. Wet towels or jeans can clump on one side. Redistribute the load and retry.
- Worn drum bearings: A very loud grinding or rumbling noise on spin that persists with balanced loads may indicate worn drum bearings — a repair job for a technician.
When to Get Help
If your machine is vibrating despite being level and loaded correctly, or if you're hearing grinding, banging or clunking sounds, it may need professional servicing. If repair costs are significant on an older machine, it may be time to consider a replacement. Oceania Appliances stocks quality washing machines with free Sydney delivery. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park (open 7 days, 10am–8pm), call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492.