How to Fix Your Shaking Whirlpool Washer - SimplySwider.com
DIY Appliance Repair

Whirlpool Washer Shaking Violently On Spin Cycle? Try These Quick Fixes!

Written by

Jason Carter

Whirlpool Washer Shaking Violently On Spin Cycle? Try These Quick Fixes!

Here’s the thing:

It is not uncommon for your Whirlpool washer to make slight rumbling noises during a spin cycle.

It’s actually quite normal, especially as the washer picks up speed; you should expect a steady hum and drum.

Despite that:

Loud thumping, vehement shaking, and violent rattling are symptoms of a flawed Whirlpool washer.

You should consider inspecting your washer for malfunctions if it wobbles aggressively. Sometimes it could even move out of place and possibly damage your floor.

This stage is where we come in:

Our troubleshooting guide will furnish you with the possible causes of a shaky Whirlpool washer and practical solutions to resolve it.

We’ve got your back!

Try these tips to stop your Whirlpool washer’s tumultuous vibrations and sporadic bangs during the spin cycle.

Whirlpool Washer Shakes Violently During the Spin Cycle

You should be concerned if your Whirlpool washer shakes violently during the spin cycle. However, there are a few troubleshooting suggestions that will solve this problem. You could replace the faulty shock absorber, suspension kit, or snubber ring. It would also be helpful to ensure the washer is balanced and the shipping bolts are discarded.

Whirlpool Washer Shaking Violently On Spin Cycle

1. Ensure Your Whirlpool Washer is Balanced

Whirlpool washer leveling leg

Listen:

Contrary to your fears, this problem may not result from any complex internal failure.

Your Whirlpool washer could be shaking violently during the spin cycle simply because the washer legs and load you put in are unbalanced.

You see:

Each Whirlpool washer is manufactured with adjustable leveling legs to help balance it on whatever surface it is placed on.

If you notice your washer is making loud noises, rock the machine to check for balance; perhaps the surface is unleveled.

For a more accurate diagnosis:

Place a spirit level on your Whirlpool washer; if the bubble doesn’t rest at the center, it confirms that the washer is unbalanced.

If unbalanced:

Adjust the leveling legs by rotating the bolts on the individual legs until the washer is level.

Also:

The distribution or weight of your load could also affect your Whirlpool washer’s balance resulting in frantic tremors.

If you have overloaded your washer or the clothes are not evenly distributed, it could shake violently, and water may spill.

Try this easy fix:

Redistribute the clothes if they have gathered unevenly and are heavier on one side of the unit. You could also remove some clothing items to regulate the weight of the wash load.

After this:

You should stop hearing loud thudding vibrations from your Whirlpool washer, and your clothes will be efficiently and conveniently cared for.

2. Replace the Faulty Shock Absorber

Whirlpool shock absorbers

Get this:

If the problem is not with your Whirlpool washer’s balance, then it probably shakes violently due to one or more faulty shock absorbers.

Shock absorbers are responsible for dampening the movement during the spin cycle in washing machines.

Now:

These shock absorbers are connected to the washer tub and frame, and when faulty, the vibrations during the spin cycle will be prominent. If one goes bad, the rest are bound to follow suit.

As such:

If any shock absorbers in your Whirlpool washer are defective, you should immediately replace all of them to avoid further damage.

Here is how to go about it:

  • Step 1: Unplug your washer from the power outlet.
  • Step 2: Remove the machine’s front panel with the necessary tools.
  • Step 3: Inspect the shock absorbers for clear signs of damage like broken attachments or signs of wear.
  • Step 4: If faulty, remove them and replace them with brand new ones.
  • Step 5: Reassemble your Whirlpool washer and run a test cycle to ensure the new shock absorbers are effective.

Essentially:

The new shock absorbers will reduce the impact of vibrations, and your Whirlpool washer should stop shaking violently during the spin cycle.

One more thing:

If you need assistance repairing the faulty shock absorber in your Whirlpool washer, don’t hesitate to schedule a repair appointment with Whirlpool.

You can also get replacement parts from them or any verified online store.

3. Change the Damaged Suspension Kit

Whirlpool suspension kit

Now:

The suspension kit consists of suspension rods and springs, which share similar functions with the shock absorber.

If your Whirlpool washer is shaking vehemently and loudly during a spin cycle, we recommend inspecting your shock absorber kit.

The thing is:

The suspension kit fixes the wash tub to the washer base and absorbs vibrations from the washer during the spin cycle.

Like any machine part:

The suspension rods and springs are liable to damage that could lead to a shaky Whirlpool washer.

Hence:

You will need to replace this kit as soon as you discover any defects to prevent further damage to your washing machine.

These steps rule out this problem:

  • Step 1: Disconnect your Whirlpool washer from the power source.
  • Step 2: Open the front panel of your washer and locate the suspension rods and springs.
  • Step 3: Check for damage, stretches, or loosened attachments.
  • Step 4: Replace the suspension kit if defective or endeavor to secure any loosened attachments.

Note:

You should order the replacement kit from a credible Whirlpool spare parts dealer, preferably Whirlpool Corporation.

Plus, if you have used your device for under a year, you can contact Whirlpool Customer Support for free replacement parts.

Also:

Ensure you reach out to a qualified maintenance specialist for technical support with the replacement procedure if you are not technically inclined.

You’d save yourself the hassle and the risk of creating more complicated issues for your Whirlpool washer.

4. Remove the Shipping Bolts

Whirlpool Shipping bolts

Fact:

Forgetting to remove the shipping bolts on your Whirlpool washer might be a rookie move, but it’s a pretty common one.

If you’re a culprit of this oversight, your spinning washer is most likely shaking violently and producing unbearable banging and thumping noises.

Now:

These shipping bolts (or transit bolts) are attached to a new Whirlpool washer to stabilize the washer drum during transportation.

Without them, the washer drum may get damaged during the tedious shipping process.

To that end:

If your Whirlpool washer has just been installed and shakes aggressively during the spin cycle, the shipping bolts are probably the cause.

What do you do to stop the racket?

Check the back of your Whirlpool washer for relatively large bolts. Then, remove the bolts with a wrench and run a test cycle to be sure you’ve eliminated the issue.

Note:

Don’t get rid of the bolts! It would be best if you kept them for the possibility that you ever need to transport your washer again.

5. Replace the Worn-out Snubber Ring

Whirlpool Snubber Ring

Here’s the thing:

Because of a worn-out snubber ring, your Whirlpool washer could vibrate frantically and make excessively loud noises during the spin cycle.

The snubber ring is an essential washer component that reduces noise and vibration in your washer.

You see:

It serves as a cushion between the base of the washer and the washer tub and dampens vibrations during the spin cycle.

Over time:

The snubber ring will wear out gradually until it gives way to a connection between the washer base and the tub.

So:

If you observe that your washer jumps and makes loud banging noises, the snubber ring is probably faulty and needs to be replaced.

Follow these steps to replace the worn-out snubber ring:

  • Step 1: Detach your washer from the power source.
  • Step 2: Remove the access panel of your washer and locate the snubber ring.
  • Step 3: Examine the snubber ring for cracks, wear, holes, or other detectable signs of damage.
  • Step 4: Replace the snubber ring if damaged.
  • Step 5: Reattach the front panel and plug your washer back into the wall socket.

Listen:

It can be dangerous to disconnect the snubber ring because there is a lot of electrical tension.

So, we advise that you call a qualified technician to assist with the replacement procedure if you don’t have the expertise or tools.

Certainly:

After implementing this fix, your Whirlpool washer should maintain a steady gentle hum during the spin cycle instead of making a racket.

Models Most Affected

We all know:

Whirlpool washers typically emit a low hum during a cycle as spin speeds build up. However, when there is an anomaly, your washer might make more noise than expected.

Now:

These specific Whirlpool washer models or model series have a reputation for shaking violently during the spin cycle.

1. Whirlpool Duet

Whirlpool Duet

Look:

The Whirlpool Duet is a large-capacity front-load washer that offers convenience and efficiency to users.

The thing is:

This model might be powerful, but it is not above malfunctions. Frustrated users have complained that it shakes aggressively, especially during the spin cycle.

2. Whirlpool Stackable Front Load Washer

Fact:

With the Whirlpool stackable front load washer, you can save space and energy without compromising the effectiveness of a wash.

The stackable washer provides intuitive controls and a large stainless steel wash tub for a more convenient laundry experience.

You see:

The stacked washer and dryer could vibrate violently and loudly if the stacking kit isn’t properly installed.

You’ll need to tighten loose screws and replace worn brackets to curb the jittering.

3. Whirlpool Top Load Washer

Whirlpool Estate

Listen:

Whirlpool top load washers usually feature large capacity wash tubs that enable you to pre-soak, wash and spin at a go.

They are designed with Adaptive Wash technology which detects the type of wash load and optimizes the cycle settings for efficient cleaning.

However:

This model series has a high rate of consumer complaints regarding its shaky washers. Luckily, you can troubleshoot any issues easily with the suggestions in this guide.

Conclusion

No doubt:

A noisy, shaky Whirlpool washer is exceedingly hard to tolerate, especially when you value peaceful and quiet spaces.

Hearing a ruckus each time you run the spin cycle could put you off getting your laundry done entirely.

But:

You still need clean clothes, and ignoring your loud vibrating washer could eventually lead to more severe complications.

As such:

You could try these helpful guidelines to stop your Whirlpool from shaking violently during a spin cycle.

  • Ensure your Whirlpool washer is balanced.
  • Replace the faulty shock absorber.
  • Change the damaged suspension kit.
  • Remove the shipping bolts.
  • Replace the worn-out snubber ring.

You see:

These fixes are cost-friendly and shouldn’t take too long to effect.

Troubleshooting your Whirlpool washer should usually be your first option when it develops any faults.

So:

If your Whirlpool washer is shaking vehemently during the spin cycle, you should repair it yourself or get help from a skilled technician.

You should also contact Whirlpool Customer Support for assistance where needed.

Got it?

Remember to share any additions, reservations, or questions you may have in the comment section below!


Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does My Washing Machine Shake Violently During the Spin Cycle?

Your washing machine could shake violently during the spin cycle for various reasons. These include an unbalanced washer and wash load, faulty shock absorber, defective suspension kit, or worn-out snubber ring.

How Do I Stop My Whirlpool Washer From Shaking?

To stop your Whirlpool washer from shaking, redistribute the clothing inside the washer or remove clothes to balance it. You could also replace damaged parts like the shock absorber, suspension kit, or snubber ring.

How Do I Stop My Washing Machine From Shaking When Spinning?

If your washing machine is shaking during the spin cycle, ensure it is not overloaded and the clothes are distributed evenly for balance.
 
Also, check for faults in essential machine components like the shock absorber, snubber ring, or suspension kit.

Why Does My Washing Machine Vibrate Violently and Jump Around When Doing Laundry?

Your washing machine is probably violently vibrating while doing laundry because of an uneven wash load, among other reasons.
 
To fix this, you should redistribute the wash load and ensure your washer is on level ground.

How Long Do Washing Machine Shock Absorbers Last?

Washing machine shock absorbers reduce the impact of the washtub movement during the spin cycle. They typically have a life expectancy of about ten years if the washer is properly handled and maintained.

Why Is My Whirlpool Washer Off Balance?

Foreign objects or laundry lodged in your Whirlpool washer could cause your washer to run off balance.
 
In addition, unevenly distributed or overloaded laundry in the washer could cause it to be unbalanced.

How Do I Know If My Washing Machine Balance Ring Is Bad?

You can detect that your washer’s balance/snubber ring is faulty if your washer shakes vehemently, especially during the spin cycle.
 
Confirm that it is defective by detaching the tub cover and inspecting the ring for damage.

How Long Do Washer Suspension Rods Last?

Generally, washer suspension rods can last approximately ten years, similar to the expected life span of a Whirlpool washer.
 
The rods are manufactured to work with suspension springs in a kit that aids their functionality.

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