A vibrating washing machine may seem like a small annoyance, but for many Burbank homeowners, it quickly turns into a bigger problem. We often hear from local residents who worry about the noise, movement, or potential damage caused by these vibrations. In other words, it’s not just about comfort — it’s also about preventing long-term issues with flooring, plumbing, and the appliance itself.
Therefore, if your washer vibrates too much, understanding why it happens is essential. You don’t need to panic, but it’s a problem that shouldn’t be ignored. Let’s take a closer look at the most common reasons a washer might shake and what you can do to fix or prevent it.
Common Cause: Unbalanced Loads
The most frequent cause of excess vibration in a washer is a simple one — unbalanced laundry. When heavy items like towels or blankets are washed with lighter clothing, the weight gets unevenly distributed during the spin cycle. As a result, the washer begins to rock or vibrate violently against the floor.
To clarify, this doesn’t mean you need to wash similar fabrics every time. However, you do need to open the washer mid-cycle if you hear loud thumping and shift the items around evenly. When our team at Quick & Pro Appliance Repair visits Burbank homes, this is often the first thing we check.
Moreover, if your washer is consistently having trouble with balanced loads, the issue may not be with your clothes. It might be time to consider professional washer repair in Burbank to check the drum suspension or other internal supports.
Floor Surface and Leveling Problems
In some cases, the washer itself is fine, but the problem lies beneath it. Washers need to be level to work properly, and even a slight slope in your laundry room can make the machine unstable. Consequently, each spin cycle magnifies the problem until it feels like the washer is bouncing off the walls.
Firstly, we recommend checking if all four washer legs are touching the floor equally. Many washers come with adjustable legs that can be rotated to create balance. Secondly, we advise placing a level on top of the washer to confirm its position. If it’s uneven, vibration is almost guaranteed.
Similarly, flooring material matters. Tile, wood, and even certain types of linoleum may allow the washer to shift during operation. Placing an anti-vibration mat underneath the unit can absorb motion and stabilize the appliance. When we work on Burbank homes, we often suggest this simple fix as a preventative measure.
Shock Absorbers and Suspension Rods Wear Out
Every modern washing machine contains internal components designed to dampen vibration. These include shock absorbers on front-loaders and suspension rods on top-loaders. Over time, however, these parts can wear out. Consequently, the drum becomes less stable and bounces more than it should during the spin cycle.
We often see these issues in washers that are over five years old, especially if they’ve had frequent heavy use. To clarify, you don’t need to be a technician to spot the signs. If your washer wobbles even when empty or you hear metal-on-metal clanking, something inside has probably failed.
At this point, we recommend professional service to inspect and replace worn parts. If you’re not sure where to turn, we often suggest starting with a general appliance repair resource for Burbank that provides access to local experts.
Shipping Bolts Never Removed
It might surprise you, but some vibration problems go all the way back to installation. Washers come with shipping bolts that stabilize the drum during transport. These bolts must be removed before the machine is used. Otherwise, the washer won’t have the flexibility to absorb movement properly.
That is to say, if your washer has always vibrated since day one, this might be the root cause. You’ll usually find these bolts on the back of the unit, and most models include removal instructions in the manual. On the other hand, if you’re not comfortable removing them yourself, it’s best to have someone experienced handle it.
Most importantly, continuing to use a washer with the bolts in place can cause long-term damage to the appliance. If you suspect improper installation or leftover bolts, now’s the time to address it before further problems occur. If unsure, feel free to contact a local technician to check it out properly.
Drum Bearings or Motor Mount Issues
When the cause isn’t external or related to load balance, the vibration might come from deep inside the washer. Bearings and motor mounts are critical parts that help the drum spin smoothly. When either begins to fail, you’ll hear grinding sounds or notice aggressive shaking during cycles.
Meanwhile, these parts often wear out slowly, which makes the issue harder to detect at first. You might notice more vibration each month until one day it becomes unbearable. Likewise, as the problem worsens, the motor might also be affected, shortening the overall lifespan of your washer.
In cases like this, repairs may be more complex and require disassembling the machine. We usually check for this kind of internal damage when simpler causes are ruled out. Our team at Quick & Pro Appliance Repair has replaced many bearings and mounts in Burbank washers that couldn’t complete spin cycles anymore.
Overloading the Washer Repeatedly
We all want to do fewer loads, but stuffing the washer too full actually causes more problems than it solves. Overloading prevents the drum from spinning freely, and as a result, vibration increases. Additionally, heavy loads put extra stress on the motor, suspension, and bearings.
Likewise, when items are packed too tightly, the weight doesn’t distribute evenly. You’ll often hear the machine slam during the spin cycle, followed by loud shakes. In the same vein, large loads of wet towels or blankets can become too heavy for a regular residential washer.
To clarify, following the manufacturer’s load recommendations matters. Each washer has a limit for weight and volume, and exceeding that can break internal components faster. When in doubt, it’s safer to divide the load and prevent excessive movement.
Damage to the Drum or Outer Tub
Severe vibration over a long time can actually break parts of the washer, including the drum or outer tub. Cracks or misalignment in these parts cause instability during spinning. Therefore, if your washer rocks back and forth and makes loud banging noises, the damage may already be done.
Moreover, once structural damage occurs, it becomes unsafe to continue using the washer. Leaks, electrical shorts, or even drum detachment can follow. We’ve replaced damaged tubs in several Burbank homes where washers were used aggressively for years.
In short, if your washer suddenly becomes much louder or you hear banging against the walls or cabinet, shut it off. Then get a professional to inspect the structure. Long-term shaking will not fix itself and usually gets worse each cycle.
Loose Parts Inside or Around the Washer
Occasionally, we find that the washer itself isn’t to blame — it’s something around it. For instance, a dryer pushed too close can amplify vibration noises. Loose pipes, a nearby utility sink, or even a cracked wall panel can make the problem seem worse than it is.
Similarly, internal components like counterweights or the control panel may loosen over time. When these shift during spinning, they rattle or shake. That’s why we often inspect everything both inside and around the unit when dealing with vibration issues.
Consequently, if you hear something unusual that doesn’t sound like spinning or water movement, take a closer look. Our technicians often tighten screws, replace brackets, or reposition parts as part of a standard vibration repair.
FAQs
Why is my washer shaking violently during spin cycles?
A washer may shake violently due to unbalanced loads, leveling issues, or worn shock absorbers. Sometimes, internal components like bearings or motor mounts can be the root cause of the excessive vibration.
Can overloading my washer really cause it to vibrate more?
Yes, overloading prevents proper spinning and causes the drum to wobble. It also stresses internal parts like the suspension and motor, leading to more frequent vibration problems.
How can I tell if my washer is level?
Use a bubble level tool on top of the washer. Check that all four legs are in firm contact with the floor. Adjustable legs can be rotated to correct uneven placement.
What do shipping bolts look like, and where are they?
Shipping bolts are typically long metal rods inserted into the back of the washer. They keep the drum stable during transport and should be removed before use.
Should I keep using a washer that vibrates a lot?
It’s best to pause use if the vibration is extreme. Continued shaking can damage the floor, appliance, or even surrounding walls. Get the machine checked by a technician before using it again.