A washer or dryer can shake while spinning for several reasons, and it's essential to address the issue to prevent further damage and reduce noise and vibration. Here are some common reasons why this shaking may occur:
Imbalance: One of the most common reasons for shaking during the spin cycle is an uneven load inside the drum. When clothes or other items aren't distributed evenly, it causes an imbalance. As a result, the appliance may vibrate excessively to compensate for the uneven weight distribution.
Leveling Issues: If the washer or dryer is not level, it can lead to instability during operation. Uneven flooring or incorrectly adjusted leveling feet can cause the appliance to rock and shake.
Worn or Damaged Parts: Over time, components such as the drum bearings, suspension springs, or shock absorbers may wear out or become damaged. This can lead to increased vibration and shaking during operation.
Flooring Surface: The type of flooring the washer or dryer is placed on can also influence its stability. Hard surfaces like tiles or concrete can transmit vibrations more effectively than a softer surface like carpet.
Transportation Bolts or Shipping Materials: If you recently installed the appliance or moved it to a new location, ensure that any transportation bolts or shipping materials have been removed. These bolts are typically used to secure the drum during transportation and can cause excessive shaking if not removed.
Overloading: Filling the drum beyond its capacity can cause imbalance issues and lead to shaking during the spin cycle.
Worn Drive Belt (Dryer): In the case of a dryer, a worn or damaged drive belt can cause uneven rotation of the drum, resulting in shaking during operation.
To address the shaking issue, consider the following steps:
Balance the Load: Ensure that you distribute the clothes or items evenly inside the drum to avoid imbalance during spinning.
Level the Appliance: Use a level tool to check if the washer or dryer is level on the floor. Adjust the leveling feet if necessary to achieve proper balance.
Inspect and Replace Worn Parts: If you suspect any components are worn or damaged, have a qualified technician inspect and replace them if needed.
Use Anti-Vibration Pads: Place anti-vibration pads under the feet of the appliance to help reduce the transfer of vibrations to the floor.
Avoid Overloading: Stick to the recommended load capacity specified by the manufacturer to prevent imbalance issues.
If the shaking persists even after trying these measures, it's best to contact a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the specific problem with your washer or dryer.