Is your washing machine making loud noises? While washing machines are known for being noisy home appliances, thumping and banging noises are often a sign of a problem. In many cases, these loud and frightening noises are a sign that your washing machine is unbalanced. An unbalanced washing machine can experience serious damage during the spin cycle. This is because the drum or the tub of the machine will bang against the inside of the washer. You will end up having to spend a lot more on repairing your machine or replacing it. If you hear the banging noises, you should try to achieve washing machine balance. Read on to find out how you can do this.
What are the Main Causes of an Unbalanced Washing Machine Load?
There are many factors that can contribute to a washing machine off balance. These include:
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The machine being out of level
You may be experiencing a washer off balance as a result of the machine being out of level. Your washer must have all four feet touching the ground and must be level from side to side and back to back. If the machine is rocking in any direction it is out of level. Adjust the feet to get it level.
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Poor loading of laundry
It is important to load your laundry evenly. Uneven loading will result in one side being heavier. When the tub spins it may bang against the walls of the machine. When a machine is loaded properly, the clothes will become relatively balanced during the spin cycle. Pay close attention to how you load your laundry, especially the heavier items.
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Shipping materials
If your unbalanced washing machine is brand new, it may be that the person who installed it failed to remove all the shipping materials that were in the wash basket. Check the washer for straps or bolts used to secure the drum and have them removed if they haven’t already been removed.
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An unstable pedestal
If your washer is mounted on a pedestal, the pedestal may be shifting as the machine goes through its spin cycle. You can resolve this by having your pedestal replaced or fitted with a stiffening kit to hold it in place.
What to do if a Washer is Off Balance with Every Spin Cycle
With a washer off balance as a result of poor leveling or uneven washing loads, the banging noises will stop when you apply the tips above. However, if your machine continues to produce a loud banging noise with every spin cycle, the problem may be more serious. If you have a top-loader washing machine, the issue could be worn suspension rods. The suspension rods help to limit the movement of the drum during the spin cycle. If the roads have become worn out, they may not work as efficiently. You may have to replace these suspension rods. It is best to replace all rods even if only one is worn out.
How to Fix an Unbalanced Washer
If you are dealing with a washing machine off balance, be sure to check if it is level and distribute clothes evenly when you load the machine. If the machine continues to make noise with every spin cycle, you will need to contact an expert contractor to have your washer examined for any other causes for it being out of balance.
Be sure to address washing machine balance as soon as possible. Your machine will otherwise experience even more extensive damage. Contact us, MountainVue Appliance Repair to repair your washing machine!
