Front Load Washer - Walking, Vibrating, Shaking, or Moving
If a front load washer is severely vibrating, shaking or even moving out of place, below are suggestions for what to look for before considering service.
Use & Care
Unbalanced Loads
Unbalanced loads can cause the Washer to vibrate more. Pause the appliance, open the door, and manually redistribute the load. To check the machine, run a rinse and spin cycle with no load. If the Washer's level of vibration is normal, the unbalance was caused by the wash load.
Clogged Drain Pump
The drain pump catches loose items, excess pet hair, etc. If it is clogged, it can cause the washer to shake or vibrate. If your model has an access door on the front at the bottom. it is easy to check and clean your drain pump. Check your washer's Owner's Manual for instructions.
This Front Load Washer Pump Clean Out video can also walk you through the steps for cleaning the pump filter.
Note: Video may not appear if Advertising cookies are blocked. Re-enable Advertising Cookies to view videos or visit our GE Appliances Video Gallery for product, maintenance, and support videos by appliance.
Installation
In an out-of-balance situation, the washer is designed to move to reduce forces transmitted to the floor. Movement up to a 1/4" can be normal on occasion.
Shipping Bolts
The shipping bolts and braces should not be removed prior to sliding the washer in place. If you open the door and press down on the drum or try to push the drum back and it will not move, then most likely the shipping bolts/braces have not be removed. Consult your washer's Installation Instructions for instructions on the removal of the shipping bolts.
Legs & Leveling
Make sure the washer is level and the legs are as short as possible. The more the legs are extended, the shakier your washer will be while running, especially in the spin cycle.
Your washer needs to be level and sitting on a good, solid floor. If it's uneven from side-to -side or front-to-back, adjust the rubber leveling legs. They should all be firmly touching the floor and locked in place. Refer to your washer's Installation Instructions for information on proper leveling.
View a short Front Load Washer Vibration - Level Legs video about leveling the Washer:
Note: Video may not appear if Advertising cookies are blocked. Re-enable Advertising Cookies to view videos or visit our GE Appliances Video Gallery for product, maintenance, and support videos by appliance.
Support
If the above suggestions do not correct the situation, a repair may be needed. For service, please schedule an appointment with Bodewell.