Why Is My Washing Machine Vibrating? Causes and Fixes
A washing machine that vibrates excessively during the spin cycle is not only noisy and disruptive — it can also damage your floors, cabinetry and the machine itself. This guide covers the most common causes of washing machine vibration in Australian homes and how to fix them.
1. The Machine Is Not Level
Most common cause. If a washing machine is not level on the floor, it will rock and vibrate during the spin cycle. This is by far the most frequent cause of washing machine vibration.
Fix: Use a spirit level on top of the machine. Adjust the front feet by turning them clockwise (to lower) or anticlockwise (to raise). Most washing machines have two adjustable front feet. Some models also have adjustable rear feet. Once level, tighten the lock nut on each foot to hold the position.
2. Uneven Load Distribution
A single heavy item (like a bath towel or jeans) can create an unbalanced load, causing severe vibration during the spin cycle. This is particularly common in front-load washing machines.
Fix: Stop the cycle, redistribute the load evenly, and restart. When washing single heavy items (a duvet, a rug), add a second similar item to balance the drum weight.
3. Transport Bolts Are Still In Place
All new washing machines are shipped with transport bolts at the rear that lock the drum in place for shipping. If these are not removed before first use, the machine will vibrate violently.
Fix: Check the rear of the machine for transport bolts. They are usually 3–4 large bolts across the back. Remove them before use and store for future moves.
4. The Floor Is Not Solid Enough
Floorboards or laundry floors that flex or bounce will amplify washing machine vibration significantly. This is very common in older Australian homes with suspended timber floors.
Fix: Place an anti-vibration mat under the machine. These dense rubber mats (available from hardware stores) absorb vibration and significantly reduce noise transfer to the floor.
5. Worn Drum Bearings
Drum bearings allow the drum to spin smoothly. When they wear out (usually after 7–10 years of use), the drum becomes noisy and vibration increases significantly. A grinding or rumbling noise accompanying the vibration is a telltale sign.
Fix: This requires a qualified appliance technician. Bearing replacement on a machine over 8–10 years old may not be cost-effective — compare the repair quote against the cost of a new machine.
6. Worn Suspension or Shock Absorbers
Front-load washing machines have suspension rods and shock absorbers that cushion drum movement during the spin cycle. When these wear out, vibration during spin increases dramatically.
Fix: This requires a qualified appliance technician. The repair is usually worthwhile if the machine is less than 8 years old.
Quick Vibration Checklist
- Check all four feet are firmly on the floor
- Use a spirit level and adjust feet as needed
- Remove any transport bolts (new machines)
- Ensure the load is balanced
- Try an anti-vibration mat
- If none of these help, call an appliance technician
Need a New Washing Machine? Contact Oceania Appliances
If your machine is beyond economical repair, we stock washing machines from all leading brands. Contact us at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au or visit our Wetherill Park showroom. Open 7 days 10am–8pm.