Washing Machine Is Shaking During Spin Cycle

Appliances like washing machines are designed to make our daily lives simpler, but nothing can cause more distress than a shaking washing machine, especially during the spin cycle. You're left puzzled and worried wondering what's going wrong with your machine, and whether you may need a new one. Well, your fears could be more imaginary than real, as it is a common issue faced by many homeowners. A rather substantial amount of output is visible during the spin cycle due to the high-speed rotation causing immense stress on the machine. However, there's no need for immediate panic. While it's quite normal for a washing machine to vibrate to some degree, excessive shaking can be a major concern. It could occur due to simple reasons like an uneven floor or an imbalanced wash load which can be corrected swiftly. Or it could be because of a more complex issue, which may need professional help to sort it out. Understanding why your washing machine is shaking during the spin cycle may save you unnecessary repair or replacement costs, and also significantly prolong the life of your appliance. Here are some plausible reasons behind the shaking: One of the most common reasons is an imbalanced load. When you put clothes in the machine, they tend to bundle together. During the spin cycle, this gathering creates an uneven distribution of weight causing the machine to shake. Similarly, washing one large item such as a blanket or rug with a load of small items can cause an imbalance. This is fixable by simply redistributing your clothes and making sure to mix large and smaller items. Another cause could be the machine not sitting level on the ground. Washing machines are heavy, but they also move a lot during the washing cycle. If your machine isn't installed properly on a levelled surface, this could be causing the shake. To tackle this issue, check whether the machine is sitting flat on all its legs. If not, adjust the legs until it does. Before you call in an expert, it's worth investigating if the shaking is due to worn-out or broken parts. One such component is the shock absorber. Shock absorbers are attached to the drum and the outer tub, helping to cushion the vibrations of the spin cycle. If they're worn out or broken, the lack of shock absorption could lead to your washing machine shaking violently. Similarly, the suspension springs or dampening straps could also be the reason. If these parts are worn out or broken, the machine will shake and can even move around. Snubber rings and tub wear pads are some more parts to check. The snubber ring is a plastic ring on the bottom of the machine, and it can start to deteriorate after multiple uses. The tub wear pads are small plastic pieces that support the tub and help in reducing vibration. If these parts are worn out, they cannot manage the vibrations, leading to a shaky washing machine. If none of the above is the cause, your washing machine might be experiencing motor issues. These are more complicated problems that are better left to the professionals. If the machine is still under warranty, do not hesitate to call the company’s service center. If it isn't, you still may want to get an expert opinion. In order to get ahead of these problems, routine maintenance should be conducted on your washing machine. Regularly check all visible parts for any signs of wear and tear. Try to balance loads to prevent any undue strain on the machine. Make sure your appliance is installed properly on a leveled surface. Lastly, it's important to understand that normal vibration is common. But excessive shaking and moving shouldn't be taken lightly as it could harm your appliance in the long run. However, by being proactive, you can add many years to your washing machine's lifespan and ensure it functions smoothly. Remember, it's not always necessary to replace your machine because it's shaking a bit during the spin cycle. It may just need a bit of maintenance or a minor tweak to be back in perfect shape. So, before the shaking washing machine causes you any unnecessary worry, follow these checks. And while we are all for DIY remedies, never hesitate to call in a professional if the problem persists. Remember, prolonging a potentially severe problem could ultimately damage your machine beyond repair. Keep your washing machine in check and it'll continue to lighten your load for years to come!