Avoid the Noise: Keep Your Washing Machine Level

April 29, 2020 Published by Leave your thoughts

Even if you avoid the loud alarm, the shaking and banging sounds from an unbalanced washing machine are still disturbing. Plus, it can lead to additional wear and tear that will only result in a repair bill later. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to solve. Here are six steps to maintaining a level washing machine in St. Peters, MO:

  • Test the level: Before you put in the work to re-level your washing machine, confirm that is the problem first. Use a carpenter’s bubble level to test it. Place the level on the machine side to side, then front to back, and look at where the bubble is located. If the bubble is not centered, it’s time to move on to the rest of the steps.
  • Start with the front legs: No matter the year, make or model, washing machines have adjustable legs. Start with the front legs since they are more accessible, and that might do the trick. Loosen the lock nut on the legs and adjust the machine to sit low on the ground. Screw one leg all the way in and adjust the other legs as needed to move the bubble in the level to the center.
  • Check the back legs: The back legs on most washing machines are self-leveling. Once the machine is level side to side, have someone tip the machine forward so you can address the back legs. Lift the machine off the floor by three or four inches. Set it down so the back legs can adjust. If the legs on your washer are not self-adjusting, you will need to manually adjust them the same way you did the front legs.
  • Tighten the lock nuts: If you forget this step, it will not be long before your machine is unbalanced again and you have to perform these steps all over again. Use the leveler to recheck the machine level front to back and side to side. Once you confirm you are finished adjusting the legs, check each one to ensure the lock nuts are tightened. Lean up against the washing machine to see if it rocks back and forth. If not, you are finished. But if it rocks, check the level again and repeat these steps until the machine is balanced.
  • Test the washer: Run your washer through a spin cycle to see if any rocking, vibrating or banging around remains. If it still shakes, check the legs again. There is a possibility that there are sinking spots in your laundry room floor that require repair.
  • Check every few months: Check the level frequently, especially if you notice excessive noise. Maintain the level in a top loader by loading clothes evenly and not causing extra stress on the belts. Front loaders have faster spin cycles, so you will want to check the level on those machines every 90 days. There is a possibility that as your home settles, you may have to adjust the level again.

If all your attempts to keep a level washing machine in St. Peters, MO fail, don’t replace it—repair it! Crews Appliance Repair is available Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., to help your appliances work again. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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