A washing machine that shifts during the spin cycle can create noise, damage your floors, or lead to bigger issues inside the appliance. This type of movement isn’t just annoying. It often signals something isn’t working as it should. We see this problem often in basements and laundry rooms across Edmonton, especially when machines are placed on tile or concrete. Understanding why it happens and how to stop it helps avoid costly damage or repair needs.
Check the Washer’s Level First
Many times, we find the cause comes down to uneven footing. When a washer isn’t sitting perfectly flat, it tends to wobble and shift as the spin cycle begins. That pressure grows quickly at higher speeds, and the whole unit can start to move. Adjusting the feet underneath the machine can solve this.
Start by pushing down gently on each corner to see if the machine rocks. If it does, the adjustable feet need attention. Use a wrench or your hands to twist the feet up or down until all four sit firmly on the ground. If one corner is lower, it throws off the entire balance. Once the washer sits flat, tighten the locknuts on the feet so they stay put.
You can find more info about why this issue shows up and how to solve it under washer repair in Edmonton. That page offers more details on frequent washer issues and the best ways to manage them.
Look for an Unbalanced Load
Next, we always take a look inside. A drum that spins out of control usually holds an unbalanced load. This means heavy items, like towels or blankets, are bunched on one side. That uneven distribution throws off the drum’s center of gravity.
Pause the cycle and open the door. If clothes are clumped together, spread them out or remove some items. Try running a rinse and spin cycle again with less weight. Even if the machine is level, it won’t stay still if the load shifts too much inside. Washing bulky or mixed items separately can prevent this from happening again.
In some cases, worn suspension rods or springs can make this worse. When those parts lose tension, they can’t absorb the movement during spin. If balancing the load doesn’t help, it may be time to reach out to someone who specializes in appliance repair services in Edmonton for a deeper inspection.
Install Anti-Vibration Pads
Sometimes the floor surface allows even a properly working washer to move. Smooth surfaces like tile, painted concrete, or laminate provide little friction. So, the entire unit slides with the spin force. We recommend placing rubber anti-vibration pads or mats under each washer foot.
These pads grip both the washer and the floor, reducing sliding and vibration. They’re affordable, simple to install, and can extend the life of your washer by reducing unnecessary shaking. In tight laundry rooms, they also stop the machine from hitting nearby walls or cabinetry. When combined with proper leveling, they usually prevent most movement issues.
You can also use a full mat under the appliance if the washer is placed on a pedestal. That provides better surface contact and can absorb more movement during high-speed spins.
Examine Internal Parts That Control Stability
When movement happens even with balanced loads and stable floors, we often open up the machine and check inside. Front-load and top-load washers use different types of stabilizing hardware. These include suspension rods, counterweights, shock absorbers, and dampening pads.
Over time, these parts wear out from use. As a result, they stop absorbing the strong shaking that happens during the spin cycle. That shaking transfers to the outer shell of the washer and causes it to inch forward or side to side. Common signs of these issues include clunking sounds or excessive bouncing.
We usually check these parts during scheduled inspections. If you hear unusual noises or notice the drum bouncing too much even when empty, internal parts may be worn. Replacing them helps bring the machine back to normal behavior.
If the machine is newer, look at the shipping bolts. Those are the large plastic fasteners that stabilize the drum during delivery. They must be removed before first use. Leaving them in prevents the drum from moving freely and causes extreme vibration.
Consider the Floor Under the Washer
Occasionally, we find the issue isn’t the machine at all. Some homes have floors that aren’t solid or flat, especially older basements or rooms with subflooring. If the floor sags or flexes, even a properly balanced washer will shake and shift.
When this is the case, one solution involves reinforcing the floor from underneath. In homes with basement access, this can be done by adding bracing or support posts. Another option is placing a thick plywood platform beneath the washer to spread the weight more evenly.
During these cases, we recommend an on-site inspection to understand the type of floor movement happening. Subtle dips or slope changes are hard to spot but cause real problems over time.
For any of these deeper issues, it’s helpful to start by contacting Edmonton Repair Appliances directly to schedule a look. Our team can assess both the machine and the floor to see what needs attention.
Keep the Washer Clean and Maintained
A machine that isn’t cleaned often builds up residue around the drum or inside the drain pump. That buildup may throw off spin performance and increase wear on stabilizing parts. We clean out the filter, run monthly drum cleaning cycles, and check for foreign objects in the tub.
Regular maintenance also gives us the chance to spot loose bolts or signs of part failure. Just like tires on a car, washers need tune-ups now and then. It’s easier and cheaper to tighten parts than to replace them after damage occurs.
Dust, pet hair, and lint from the laundry room can also collect beneath the machine and reduce grip. We sweep and clean the area under and around the washer every few weeks. A clean base surface helps anti-vibration pads work better and keeps the washer from slipping.
FAQ
Why does my washer move even though it’s brand new?
If the washer is new, check for shipping bolts. These must be removed before using the machine. Also make sure the feet are level and secure.
Can a washer damage the floor if it moves too much?
Yes, movement during spin can scratch or dent floors. It can also wear out stabilizers faster. Using rubber pads helps reduce this.
What if only certain loads cause the washer to move?
That usually means the load is unbalanced. Heavy items clumping on one side can cause the drum to spin unevenly and shake the unit.
Do top-load washers move more than front-load ones?
It depends on the model and setup. Both can move if unbalanced or on slick floors. Front-loaders tend to spin faster, so they may move more when unlevel.
How do I know if the washer’s suspension system is worn out?
Look for loud banging during spin, lots of bouncing, or if the drum feels loose. These signs point to worn stabilizers or shocks.