How to Reduce Vibrations from a Washer and Dryer
If your new washer not only agitates your laundry, it shakes up the house with noisy vibrations, check the set up and location of your washer. Some vibration and a bit of noise are normal, but a washing machine that vibrates too much can actually cause structural damage. Vibration is especially common with front-load washing machines, which spin faster than top-loading machines. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Remove the shipping bolts and braces. On the back of the washer, are four bolts that to keep the washer from damage during shipping. Remove these with a wrench if they are still in place. Remove the braces that keep the bolts in place. Remove the plastic foam block from inside the washer that supports the drum.
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Place a level on top of the washer. Twist the nobs on the leveling feet at the bottom corners of the washer until the washer is level. Tighten the nuts on the leveling feet to lock in the position. If it’s not level, the washer will vibrate back and forth on the legs.
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Check the balance of the load in the washer. Open the door of the washer to see if laundry has become clumped on one side of the tub. Redistribute the wash or add a couple of towels to the load to even out the weight.
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Consider heavy-duty rubber mats or pads designed to absorb vibration and keep the washer's feet in place if adjusting the level and load don't work.
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Tips & Warnings
Locate the washer on a concrete floor if possible. Concrete tends to deaden vibration problems. Wood and tile create the worst vibrations.
The further the leveling feet are extended, the greater the chance for vibration. Level the front feet at the lowest level possible and adjust the rear feet as needed.
If you're not comfortable messing around with shipping bolts and the like, don't. Call the manufacturer, play dumb, and ask for service.
References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
