Is It Dangerous If Your Washing Machine Shakes and Makes Noise?

A washing machine is an essential household appliance. Many people think that vibration during washing is normal. However, if the machine shakes violently and makes unusual loud noises, it’s often a sign of internal issues.

Ignoring this can lead to:

• Faster wear and tear of parts.
• Reduced appliance lifespan.
• Increased electricity bills.

So, what causes this issue, and how do you fix it? Let’s find out below.

Common Causes and Fixes for a Shaking, Noisy Washing Machine

1. Uneven Placement

• Cause: The washer is placed on an uneven floor, causing the drum to tilt and collide with the outer casing.
• Fix:
  • Adjust the washer’s legs for balance.
  • Relocate the machine to a flat surface.
  • Use wooden planks or concrete to stabilize the base.

2. Overloading or Uneven Laundry Distribution

• Cause: Too much laundry or clothes clumping to one side causes imbalance.
• Fix:
  • Sort laundry and avoid overloading.
  • Pause the cycle and redistribute clothes if strong noise or shaking occurs.

3. Incorrect Installation

• Cause: Especially with front-load washers, leaving transport bolts in place or improper setup can cause vibrations.
• Fix:
  • Follow the installation manual carefully.
  • Ask a technician for support if unsure.

4. Broken Shock Absorbers

• Cause: Worn-out dampers fail to absorb vibrations from the spinning drum.
• Fix:
  • Contact a repair service to inspect and replace the shock absorbers.

5. Damaged Bearings or Drum Shaft

• Cause: Faulty bearings increase friction, creating loud grinding noises.
• Fix:
  • Requires technical expertise—call a repair technician for replacement.

6. Insufficient Water Supply

• Cause: Low water levels prevent proper washing cycles, leading to friction and noise.
• Fix:
  • Let the machine auto-adjust the water level.
  • Regularly clean the water inlet and hoses.

7. Old or Malfunctioning Machine

• Cause: Worn-out components in older machines naturally cause more vibration and noise.
• Fix:
  • Schedule maintenance every 3–6 months.
  • Replace the washer if it has been used for over 8 years.

8. Foreign Objects in the Drum

• Cause: Items like keys, pens, or coins left in pockets may rattle inside the drum.
• Fix:
  • Always check pockets before washing.
  • Inspect the drum before starting a cycle.

Conclusion

A shaky, noisy washing machine is more than just annoying—it’s often a warning sign of damage. To fix it:

• Place your machine on a flat surface.
• Wash appropriate loads.
• Perform regular cleaning and maintenance.

👉 If the issue persists, contact a reliable repair service or warranty center to prevent further damage.

FAQs About Washing Machine Noise and Vibration

1. Why does my washing machine make loud noises when spinning?
This usually happens due to unbalanced loads, worn-out bearings, or faulty shock absorbers.

2. Is it safe to keep using a washer that shakes a lot?
No. Prolonged use can damage internal parts and shorten the machine’s lifespan.

3. How often should I clean my washing machine?
It’s recommended to clean your washer every 3–6 months to prevent buildup and keep it running smoothly.

4. Can I fix a noisy washer on my own?
You can try simple fixes like redistributing clothes or leveling the machine. For mechanical issues like bearing or shock absorber replacement, it’s best to call a technician.

5. When should I replace my washing machine?
If your washer is over 8 years old and frequently breaks down, replacement is often more cost-effective than repair.