Why Is My Washing Machine Vibrating So Much?
Some vibration during the spin cycle is normal — the drum spinning at 1200–1400rpm generates significant movement. But if your machine shakes the room, moves across the floor, bangs loudly, or has recently become significantly more vibration than before, there is a problem to investigate.
1. Machine Is Not Level
This is the first thing to check and the most common cause of excessive vibration. All four feet should be in firm contact with the floor and the machine should be level from front-to-back and side-to-side. Use a spirit level across the top of the machine. Adjust the levelling feet (screw them in or out) until the machine is stable, then tighten the locking nuts.
2. Transit Bolts Still Fitted
If your machine is newly installed or has recently been moved, check whether the transit bolts are still fitted. These bolts lock the drum during transport and must be removed before use — running a machine with transit bolts in will cause extreme vibration and can cause serious damage. The bolt holes are on the back panel and the bolts are typically orange or red plastic-headed. Remove them and fit the plastic blanking plugs supplied.
3. Machine on an Unstable Surface
Washing machines on wooden floorboards — especially suspended timber floors — amplify vibration significantly compared to solid concrete. A rubber anti-vibration mat under the machine reduces transmission to the floor. On very springy floors, consider a specialist anti-vibration platform.
4. Worn Shock Absorbers
The shock absorbers (two or four units, connecting the drum to the outer casing) dampen drum movement during spin. As they wear, they lose their damping effect and vibration increases significantly. This typically develops gradually over years. Shock absorber replacement costs £80–£130 and is a straightforward repair for an engineer.
5. Broken or Displaced Counterweight
Concrete counterweights (front and/or rear of the drum) balance the drum's movement. If a mounting bolt has worked loose, the counterweight can shift and cause severe vibration, often accompanied by a heavy clunking sound. The bolt can often be retightened; a cracked or broken counterweight needs replacement.
6. Drum Bearing Failure
Failed drum bearings can cause a combination of noise and vibration. You may notice increased drum movement when you push and release the drum by hand — it should spring back with minimal play. Bearing replacement is a more involved repair (£110–£185) but necessary if bearings are the cause.