Washers

Washer shakes violently, walks, or shows an unbalanced error

Some shaking at high spin is normal. Violent shaking, a washer that moves across the floor, or repeated unbalanced errors point to the load, the levelling or the suspension. On many newer front-loaders, a vibration sensor also decides when to slow the spin.

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Safe checks before you book

  1. Redistribute the load. Single heavy items or a waterlogged comforter cause most unbalanced spins.
  2. Level and lock the feet. Check each foot is on the floor and the lock nuts are tight. Rock the corners to test.
  3. Shipping bolts. On a new or recently moved front-loader, make sure the shipping bolts at the back were removed.
  4. Note the error. Codes such as UE, UB or OE-type unbalanced codes help the technician narrow it down.
Unplug first. Switch off power (and close the water or gas supply where it applies) before looking behind or inside an appliance. If anything feels unsafe, stop and call.

What usually causes it

Worn shock absorbers or springsThe tub isn't damped, so it hits the cabinet.
Vibration (MEMS) sensorMany front-loaders use an accelerometer-type sensor to measure tub movement. A faulty one can stop spins or report imbalance with a balanced load.
Suspension rods (top-loaders)Worn rods let the tub swing.
Failed bearingsA loose tub with a roaring noise at spin.

When to stop and call

The washer moves across the floor or hits walls. Stop the cycle to avoid damaging hoses and floors.

Top-load washer with its cabinet removed
Top-load washer with the cabinet off · RepairWell job photo

What the visit costs

The diagnostic is free when you approve the repair and it's completed. You get the cause, the parts, labour and total in writing before any work. If you don't go ahead, it's $89 + tax for a home electric appliance, or $149 + tax for a gas appliance.

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