Why does my washing machine vibrate?
Your washing machine usually vibrates because of an unbalanced drum, an installation that is not level, or an unsuitable floor. On new machines it can also be because the transport bolts have not yet been removed. Placing the machine steadily in a washing machine cabinet helps reduce vibration, because the construction directs vibrations down through the continuous base plate.
The 5 most common causes
Unbalanced drum: heavy items such as towels, duvet covers or a pair of jeans gather on one side during the spin cycle. That causes heavy vibration.
Not level: if the washing machine is not standing completely straight, it will shake or even walk across the floor. Use the adjustable feet to level the machine.
Transport bolts still fitted: on new washing machines the transport bolts at the back have to be removed. They lock the drum during transport, but cause extreme vibration if they are left in place during use.
Unsuitable floor: a wooden or springy floor absorbs vibration less well than a concrete floor. A smooth tiled floor can amplify vibration too.
Worn parts: on older machines, worn shock absorbers, springs or faulty bearings can be the cause of banging noises and heavy vibration.
How do you solve vibration?
Unbalanced drum
Solution: spread the laundry evenly, wash heavy items separately
Effect: less vibration straight away
Not level
Solution: adjust the feet using a spirit level
Effect: a steadier installation
Transport bolts
Solution: remove the bolts at the back
Effect: normal operation restored
Springy floor
Solution: put the washing machine in a stable cabinet with a continuous base plate
Effect: vibrations are directed downwards
Worn parts
Solution: have the shock absorbers or bearings replaced
Effect: a lasting solution
Why a washing machine cabinet helps against vibration
The washing machine cabinets from Washtower® are designed with a cabinet-in-cabinet construction. That construction consists of a continuous base plate, double side panels and a 16 mm back panel. It directs vibrations down through the cabinet, so your washing machine stands more steadily.
The cabinet has 5 cm of space at the back as standard and stands about 5 cm from the wall with the wall brackets, leaving roughly 10 cm for the connections. That stops hoses from kinking or being put under tension, which can reduce vibration as well. Standard ventilation grilles provide enough air circulation around your machine.
Which setup suits your situation?
A single washing machine: choose a washing machine stand if you want to bend less and are looking for more comfort when loading and unloading.
Washing machine and dryer: with a stacked washer and dryer setup you save floor space and the dryer sits at an ergonomic height.
Extra storage: combine your washing machine cabinet with storage cabinets for detergent and cleaning supplies.
A complete laundry room: use the configurator to put together a modular setup that fits your room and your wishes exactly.
What to watch out for when installing
The standard recess of 62.5 x 86.3 x 58.3 cm (W x H x D) suits virtually every standard washing machine. Use the cabinet's adjustable feet to level the cabinet. The machine's own feet can then be screwed all the way in, because the cabinet itself is already level. That is essential for steady operation and prevents vibration from getting worse.
Every washing machine cabinet from Washtower® has an anti-tip device for extra safety. That applies to stacked setups with a dryer on the washing machine as well, where the centre of gravity sits higher.
Have a question, or would you like personal advice? Contact our customer service or simply put your ideal setup together using our online configurator.