An unbalanced washing machine isn’t just an inconvenience. Left untreated, an unbalanced machine can cause further damage to the appliance or the surrounding space. Knowing how to identify and fix an unbalanced washer can help you maintain the machine’s condition and longevity, and avoid costly repairs.
Spotting an Unbalanced Washing Machine
How can you tell if your washer is unbalanced? One of the most common signs is unusual noises. If you hear any of the following, your washer might have a balance problem:
- Excessive vibration
- Thumping
- Banging
- Rattling
You might also notice that when a load is done, it’s all on one side of the drum or the laundry is still waterlogged even after the last spin cycle.
An unbalanced washer can also “walk” forward when you run it. If there’s more force in one direction than another as the drum spins, the whole machine can scoot out of place little by little with each rotation.
Why is My Washer Unbalanced?
In some cases, the cause of an out-of-balance washer can be spotted and solved quickly. Others require some investigation or professional appliance repair service.
Overloaded Drum
Overloading the machine is one of the most common causes of an unbalanced washer. If there are too many items in a load, your washer can have trouble distributing them evenly in the drum. You can end up with a clump of laundry weighing down one side, which can cause thumping noises and lead to your washer “walking” forward.
The fix? Distribute laundry evenly when loading and avoid extra large loads. In general, keep loads at or below three-quarters of the washer’s total capacity to allow for proper movement during the wash, rinse, and spin cycles.
Uneven Surface
If your washer is on an uneven surface or is not fully level across all four corners, it will inherently be unbalanced. Washers typically have adjustable legs so you can keep the machine level even if the floor is not. If your washer seems to be unbalanced, you can use a carpenter’s level to check its status and adjust the legs as needed.
Worn, Damaged, or Broken Parts
Mechanical issues can also throw your washer out of balance. When one part or component of a washer isn’t working correctly, it can cause strain, wear, or improper functioning for other parts. From belts to bearings, there can be countless culprits. If you think you might have a mechanical problem, it’s best to call your local appliance repair professional for help.
The Importance of Timely Washing Machine Repairs
An unbalanced washer might not seem like a critical issue in the moment, but it’s still important to identify and address the cause as soon as possible. Left untreated, an unbalanced washer can cause numerous issues such as:
- Further damage, wear, and tear to internal parts
- Leaks and water damage from displaced or damaged hoses and seals
- Physical damage to floors, walls, and other surroundings
When your washer is out of balance, the problem will only get worse over time. An issue that might need a simple repair or adjustment today can snowball into a complex and costly repair job—or necessitate buying a new machine.
If your washer is unbalanced and you can’t spot or solve the cause on your own, contact your local appliance repair specialist as soon as you can. Addressing the problem early will prevent additional damage, protecting your appliance and your home long-term.
For expert appliance repair service in Rockaway and the greater Morris County area, reach out to Morris County Appliance Repair today. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience, and we’re fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Offering convenient weekday and weekend appointments, Morris County Appliance Repair is here when you need us. You can rely on our team to provide outstanding customer care along with exceptional appliance expertise to help keep your home appliances in great condition. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!
