How to Fix a Shaking Problem on a Bosch Washer

Front load washers offer several advantages over the top-loading variety.

Front load washers, such as those available from Bosch, are more energy efficient and offer enhanced performance compared to their top-loading counterparts. They function without using an agitator, meaning they are gentle on fabrics, and will have larger loading capacities per unit size. However, they are also more sensitive to being unbalanced, which can produce a loud and irritating shaking motion. Determining which of several possible causes is responsible for the shaking will allow you to find the proper solution.

Things You'll Need

• Level
• Waterproof board, 3/4-inch thick
• Anti-vibration pads

Instructions

1. Unplug the washer. This will help prevent any accidental damage to the machine while you are attempting to correct the cause of the shaking.

2. Look underneath the washer for any shipping bolts that may not have been removed after your item was transported. Remove any that you find.

3. Try gently rocking the washer; if it can be rocked, the appliance feet will need to be adjusted. Determine which feet are either too long or too short and adjust them by turning them until they are all supporting the washing machine equally. Place the level on top of the washer to see if the machine is sitting unevenly. Use the appliance feet to adjust the washer until it sits level.

4. Tilt the washer forward gently, and then tilt it back; front-loading washers often have an unbalanced load detection system, and this may have needed to be reset.

5. Examine the floor the washer sits on; certain materials, such as wooden flooring, can be susceptible to vibrations. If this is the case, you will need to place something under the washer to dampen the vibrations; a 3/4-inch-thick waterproof board will work, and you can also purchase anti-vibration pads. For best results when using a board, screw it down to the floor.

6. Plug in the machine, and run it empty through a spin cycle. If it still vibrates, you may need to call a repairperson to have the machine serviced.

Tips & Warnings

• Washers are heavy appliances. Be careful when lifting or tilting it, and if needed have someone assist you.

References

• Bosch: Washers – Operation
• HomeTips.com: How to Troubleshoot & Repair Washing Machine Problems