What causes a washing machine to walk across the floor?

Author: Dallin Huel  |  Last update: Thursday, November 20, 2025

Walking is the simple result of centrifugal force that is unevenly distributed. Uneven legs can cause the feet to 'skitter' and pull the machine across the floor. The wobble itself can lurch the machine forward as it tips the internal weight in a specific direction. Measure if your washer is even using a bubble-level.

How do I stop my washing machine from moving across the floor?

To stabilize your washer, adjust the leveling legs on the washer itself or washer pedestal. With an adjustable wrench, turn the legs to lower or raise them. Level it front to back, then side to side. Check your work with a level.

Why does my washing machine travel across the floor?

A washing machine may 'walk ' during the spin cycle due to an out of balance load, poor feet / wheels / floor / vibration dampers or ineffective out-of-balance-switch / system. Years ago washing machines didn't incorporate these features and some were bolted to the floor.

How do I know if my washer suspension springs are bad?

You can test the suspension by pressing down on the agitator and letting go quickly. If it returns smoothly, it's fine. If it bounces from one corner or all over, the suspension is bad.

How do you fix an unbalanced drum in a washing machine?

To accomplish this, you will probably need to remove the inner tub. If it is clean and still unbalanced, you will need to find a shop that can balance it. This will be accomplished by adding weights to the exterior surface of the tub to counterbalance the heavier parts.

Is your washing machine walking across your floor?

Can a washing machine drum be rebalanced?

Rebalancing a washing machine drum involves several steps. First, ensure the machine is on a level surface. Open the door and evenly distribute the load, avoiding heavy items on one side. If your machine has an adjustable weight balance, use it.

How much does it cost to fix an unbalanced washing machine?

Repair Costs by Problem

Washer Not Draining: ~ $100–$250. Washer Not Spinning: ~ $100–$300. Washer Shaking (Unbalanced): ~ $50–$150.

Why does my washing machine keep going out of balance?

It's most likely the bearings are going out! These crucial components ensure that the drum spins smoothly and without excess vibration. So, when the bearings break down, they can't support the drum properly, leading to an off-balance and noisy cycle.

How much does it cost to replace suspension springs?

The average cost of replacing coil springs is £248, with prices ranging from £175 and £400.

What are symptoms of bad springs?

Q1: What are the signs of bad springs? A1: The signs of bad springs include squeaking or creaking noises, uneven or excessive bouncing, sagging or lopsidedness, lack of support or cushioning, and increased noise and vibrations.

What causes a washer to walk?

If you have ever experienced a washing machine walking across the floor, you know how frustrating it can be. This problem is often caused by an unbalanced load or washing machine feet that are not level. In this blog post, we will explain how to evenly distribute the wash load and level the washer feet.

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.

How do you stabilize a washing machine floor?

A rubber mat under your machine will do this for you. If your washer starts shaking during the spin cycle, the rubber mats will be protecting the floors until you are able to pause the washing machine. Washing machines often shake because the mass of clothes is distributed unevenly inside of them.

Is it normal for washing machine to move?

It's normal for your machine to shake during laundry cycles. But not to the point where it moves out from under the worktop or away from its usual spot. If you notice it moving across the room – like in a horror film – you should act quickly.

What is best to put under a washing machine?

The best material to protect floors from heavy appliances like washing machines and fridges is rubber. The main feature of rubber that makes it the most popular mat material is its natural slip resistance.

Why has my washing machine leaked all over the floor?

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.

Can I replace a coil spring myself?

Can I replace the coil springs myself? You can, but it's tricky and best done by a professional to avoid further damage or safety issues.

Is suspension worth fixing?

A functioning suspension can help keep you comfortable and safe on the road. While car suspension repair can add up quickly, getting your suspension fixed promptly can keep the cost down and prevent other issues, like tires that need to be replaced because they were worn unevenly.

How long does it take to fix a broken suspension spring?

It takes roughly 1-3 hours to replace front coil springs and around 1-1.5 hours to replace rear coil springs. If there are any complications when the springs are being replaced, it could take longer.

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 you fix a washer that keeps getting unbalanced?

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.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

Is it worth fixing a washing machine?

So, if your washer machine is still reasonably young, and you spent a decent penny on it, it's definitely worth repairing. You'll get more out of your investment! In addition, since newer machines are gentler on clothes and more energy-and-water efficient, repairing and protecting your investment makes sense.

How do I stop my washing machine from wobbling?

Modify the level of the washer by raising or lowering the leveling legs with an adjustable wrench or pliers if necessary. Also ensure any jam nuts that are in place to secure the leveling legs are tight, securing the legs against the base of the appliance.

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