How do you know if your washing machine is not level?

Author: Ms. Veronica Bechtelar  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Find out if the machine is level: Use a carpenter's bubble level or find an app on your phone that mimics this tool. Set your device of choice on top of the machine, first from side to side and then front to back, to see if it's level. If the bubble doesn't center itself, you have some adjusting to do.

How do you know if your washing machine is unbalanced?

Signs that your washing machine is unbalanced

You can tell if the drum is unbalanced if the machine vibrates excessively during the spin cycle or makes a loud banging noise. This usually indicates that the clothes inside the drum have created an uneven load.

Does a washing machine have to be perfectly level?

A tilted washing machine can cause many problems including vibrations, noise and detergent drawer residue.

What happens if the washer isn't level?

An unbalanced washer will also often trigger an error code that will disrupt the washing cycle and potentially render the washer unusable until rebalanced. Drainage and leaking issues are also more likely to occur when the washer is unbalanced. Fortunately, it is usually relatively easy to balance a washer.

How to fix an unbalanced washer drum?

How To Fix an Unbalanced Washer (In 5 Steps)
  1. Step 1 – Make sure the washer isn't overloaded. ...
  2. Step 2 – Make sure the washer is sitting level. ...
  3. Step 3 – Adjust the washer legs. ...
  4. Step 4 – Inspect the shock absorber. ...
  5. Step 5 – Inspect the suspension springs.

LG Vibration Problems Walking on Spin ' You Can Fix This Easy '

Will washer leak if not level?

An off-balance washing machine may cause a leak during the spin cycle. Check that your washer is level and adjust the leveling feet until the machine is balanced. Other possible causes of a leak during the spin cycle are a clogged water pump or drain hose or damaged seals between these two parts.

How do you self level a washing machine?

When you set the washer back down, the legs should adjust automatically so the machine sits level from front to back. However, some washing machines have the same type of adjustable legs in the rear as they do in the front. In this case, you must adjust the rear legs manually until the machine is level.

Can an uneven load break a washing machine?

You will seriously damage and shorten the life of your machine, if you keep trying to wash unbalanced loads If the machines balance protection software doesn't abort the spin cycle and your machine dose somehow manages to spin an unbalanced load – apart from damaging the Inner drum, the drum spider and the drum ...

Why is my washing machine shaking so much?

If you notice shaking, try to load fewer clothes and ensure items are evenly dispersed throughout the basket to equalize weight inside the washer. You can also try adding other items to help equalize weight inside the basket to help stop the shaking.

What does an unbalanced washing machine sound like?

The most common reason your washer makes banging sounds during the spin cycle is that an unbalanced load has thrown it out of whack.

How long should a washing machine last?

Average washing machine lifespan

Well, this figure obviously varies depending on lots of different factors - including brand, model, how you use it, and how well you maintain it. But generally, if you look after your washing machine properly you should it expect it to last anywhere between 7 and 12 years.

How do I know if my washing machine is balanced?

Use a Level

To ensure precise leveling, place a bubble or digital level on top of the washing machine. This will help you determine if the machine is perfectly level in both directions. Make small adjustments to the leveling feet as needed until the bubble is centered within the level's indicator lines.

How do you level a washing machine by yourself?

Adjust the washer feet. Turn the front leveling feet either clockwise to elevate the washer feet or counterclockwise to lower them using pliers or by hand. To adjust to the floor, the feet might need to be at various levels. Ensure that each foot is still firmly fastened to the washer's base.

Should you elevate your washing machine?

Ergonomic Loading and Unloading

For individuals with mobility issues or those who struggle with bending, pedestals can make a big difference. By elevating the washer and dryer, pedestals reduce the need to crouch or kneel, which is a huge benefit, especially for those with joint or back problems.

Will washing machine work if not level?

Excessive vibration and noise: If your machine is not level, it can cause excessive shaking, vibrating, and noise during operation. This can be disruptive and annoying, especially if the machines are in a living space. If you notice your washer or dryer shaking, it may be time to level them.

Is there a way to rebalance a washing machine?

Put a 3 foot level on top and adjust the legs down at the bottom of the machine. Turn the level 180 degrees and level it again. repeat doing both until you have a perfect level machine both ways. I just got a brand new Maytag washer and it always gets off balance.

Can I do self Levelling myself?

If you're just learning how to use a self levelling compound, we recommend hiring a professional to do it for you. As you're working with polymer-modified cement with a high flow capacity, it's not something you should try pouring yourself unless you're 100% confident in your DIY skills.

Why does my washing machine shake when I spin the floor?

An unlevel washing machine is often the source of vibration and noise. A washer is typically unlevel because the floor it sits on is unlevel. Try the following to determine if your washer is level and stabilize it if it's unlevel. Place a level width-wise on top of the washer.

How do you stabilize a washing machine on an uneven floor?

With the pliers or by hand, turn the front leveling feet counterclockwise to lower the washer feet or clockwise to raise the washer feet. The feet may need to be at different levels to adapt to the floor. Make sure that each foot remains securely attached to the base of the washer.

Why is water pouring out the bottom of my washing machine?

Washing machines that leak from the bottom during the spin cycle may be off-balance. If the machine is balanced and still leaking, check the water pump and drain hoses for clogs or cracks, and check the unit for damaged seals between the drain hose and water pump.

What is the best washing machine supply line?

Stainless Steel Braided Hoses

Stainless steel washing machine hoses are considered the best option due to their exceptional durability and resistance to kinks, punctures, and external damage. These hoses feature an inner rubber tube encased in a braided stainless steel jacket for added protection.

Previous article
How to clean mold off walls?
Next article
What happens if you get caught remodeling without a permit in California?