6 Signs Your Washing Machine Needs to Be Rebalanced for Less Noise and Cleaner Clothes

Washing machines are designed with balance in mind so the drum spins correctly during the wash and rinse cycles, cleaning and partially drying the contents. The spinning drum removes excess water from the laundry, ensuring that clothes and linens are not soaked and dripping when you put them in the dryer or hang them on a drying rack or clothesline.

It can be relatively easy to throw off the balance of the drum, whether due to an uneven floor, an overfilled washer, or simply distributing the laundry unevenly when loading the washer, with more items on one side than the other. The good news is that almost every issue that causes an unbalanced washing machine can be corrected with minimal time and effort. Use this guide to discover six signs you might need to rebalance your washing machine and how to tackle this problem.

1. Loud Banging or Thumping Noises

One of the surest signs that your washing machine needs to be rebalanced is the loud banging or thumping sounds it makes during a cycle. These noises typically indicate that the load needs to be redistributed, but can also be a sign of other problems. To start troubleshooting this issue, first check to ensure the washer is not filled more than 80% full, as overloading can cause balance issues.

Next, redistribute any clothes or other laundry items, ensuring that heavier items, such as blankets or towels, are evenly distributed alongside lighter items. If this does not resolve the issue, the washer might be sitting on an uneven surface. In this case, you need to locate and level the feet on the bottom of the washer. Use a level to verify this method worked. If these solutions do not resolve the issue, consult a professional appliance repair technician to identify the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs.

2. Excessive Vibration and Shaking

A washing machine that vibrates or shakes excessively while in use is another telltale sign that it needs to be rebalanced. Balancing the load and ensuring the washer is not overfilled can instantly solve this problem. However, you might also need to adjust the washing machine’s support by turning the leveling feet clockwise or counterclockwise, using a level to ensure the machine sits level to the ground.

Additionally, you can address minor vibration issues by installing rubber or foam anti-vibration pads under the machine’s feet or a washing machine mat that slides under the entire machine to further dampen vibrations. However, don’t hesitate to contact a washing machine repair professional if these solutions don’t solve the problem.

3. Shifting During Cycles

When a washing machine is off-balance, it might shift to one side or the other, or move forward away from the wall. This motion is typically caused when the unbalanced drum makes contact with the inside of the washing machine or when severe vibrations cause the machine to shift across the floor.

Check the load to determine if the washer is overfilled, if the laundry is unevenly distributed, or if there are any heavy items on one side of the washer. Redistribute the load, if necessary. If the load is not the problem, then level the machine or invest in anti-vibration pads that feature a non-slip grip to prevent the machine from shifting. Calling in a repair professional may be necessary if you suspect a loose washer basket or drum is causing the issue, or if the shock absorbers, drum bearings, or suspension rods are worn out.

4. Unbalanced Load Error Code

In some cases, determining that the washing machine needs to be rebalanced is as easy as checking the digital display. Some machines display a specific error code when the load is unbalanced or the machine appears to be uneven or unbalanced in some way. Typically, the error code is UE, UB, or UL, depending on the brand or model.

To resolve this problem, start by pausing the cycle and redistributing the laundry in the drum according to its weight and size. You can also remove some laundry if the washer is overfilled. If the problem persists, check the feet to ensure the washer is level. Some machines may even come with a balancing kit specifically designed to stabilize the machine during operation. If your machine comes with one of these kits, it’s a good idea to install it. Ultimately, if these solutions are not effective, you should consult a professional appliance repair technician.

5. Clothes Remain Soaked After Spin Cycle

If the washing machine is unbalanced, there is a good chance that the clothes, linens, and other laundry will be significantly wetter than normal when you remove them from the machine. Due to an unbalanced spin cycle, the washer is unable to rotate and drain the excess water from the laundry properly.

To address this problem, first redistribute the laundry in the load, remove any excess laundry beyond 80% capacity, and ensure the feet are level. If you have taken these steps and the problem persists, the issue could be a kink or blockage in the drain hose or pump. However, if the drain hose and pump appear to be functioning correctly, you can try increasing the speed of the spin cycle.

If your machine has a "Drain & Spin" setting, it can provide a more thorough spin for bulkier items that tend to hold more water. If these methods don’t work, contact a repair technician to inspect, identify, and fix the problem.

6. Uneven Footing

An uneven floor or surface is a relatively common problem, especially when you first receive a new washing machine or relocate an existing one to a new location. If the appliance is sitting on an uneven floor, it will rock back and forth during operation, causing the drum to become unbalanced during rapid spin and rinse cycles.

Use a level while adjusting the leveling feet on the bottom of the washing machine, ensuring the appliance sits level. However, if the floor under the machine is weak, even leveling the feet won’t resolve this issue, so you need to either relocate the machine to a new location or consider replacing or reinforcing the floor to create a stable base. If you have taken these steps but the problem persists, call a repair technician to solve the problem before the unbalanced operation causes lasting damage to the washer’s internal components.