Ever noticed your washing machine shaking, making odd noises, or not cleaning clothes as well as it should? The culprit might be something as simple as an uneven machine. Keeping your washer level isn’t just about noise—an unsteady washer can shorten its lifespan and lead to bigger repair bills.
In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to level your washing machine, step-by-step, along with practical tips for a smooth and successful setup. Let’s get started!
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How Do You Level a Washing Machine? A Step-by-Step Guide
A washing machine that rocks, shakes, or “walks” during its cycles is more than just annoying—it can shorten the lifespan of the appliance and even damage your floor. If you’ve noticed your washer seems off-kilter, the good news is you can often solve the problem yourself by properly leveling the machine. Leveling your washing machine not only helps it run quietly and efficiently but also protects your clothes and home.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to ensure your washer stands solidly on all fours.
Why Leveling Your Washing Machine Matters
A level washing machine is essential for several important reasons:
- Reduces Noise and Vibration: An unlevel washer can bang and shake, making laundry day unnecessarily stressful.
- Prevents Damage: Excess movement can lead to internal damage, leaks, and even floor scratches.
- Ensures Performance: When your washer is stable, it can clean more effectively and last longer.
- Protects Your Home: Leaky seals and excess vibration may lead to water damage on your floors and walls.
How to Tell if Your Washing Machine Is Not Level
Before diving in with tools, look for these telltale signs:
- The washer rocks or moves when you press a corner or side.
- It makes loud noises or bangs during spin cycles.
- You notice it has shifted from its original position.
- Clothes often end up bunched up on one side.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to check your washer’s level.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
You won’t need a full toolbox, but a few basic items will make the job easier:
- A carpenter’s level (bubble level)
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- A helper (optional, but handy for larger machines)
- Safety gloves (optional)
Step-By-Step Guide to Leveling Your Washing Machine
Below, you’ll find a straightforward approach to leveling both front- and top-loading washers. Follow each step carefully to set your washer on the right footing.
1. Unplug and Clear the Area
Before you start:
- Turn off and unplug the washing machine for safety.
- Move the washer away from the wall to give yourself room to work behind and around the appliance.
- Make sure the floor underneath is clean—remove any debris or objects that could affect stability.
2. Check the Washer’s Level
Place the bubble level on top of your washer—in both directions:
- Side to Side: Set the level on the back edge to check horizontal alignment.
- Front to Back: Place the level along one edge (left or right) to check front-to-back tilt.
3. Locate and Inspect the Adjustable Feet
Most washing machines have four adjustable legs or feet—one on each corner:
- Some models have rubberized, threaded feet; others may have metal or plastic.
- Front feet are often adjustable by hand; rear feet may self-level or require a tool.
4. Adjust the Front Legs
- With your wrench or by hand, turn the front legs to raise or lower each corner. Typically, turning clockwise raises the machine; counterclockwise lowers it.
- Make small adjustments and re-check with your level each time.
- Ensure both front feet are touching the floor firmly.
Pro Tip: Locking Nuts
Some washers have a small locking nut above the foot. After adjusting, turn the nut upward against the bottom of the washer to lock it in place.
5. Adjust the Rear Legs (If Needed)
- Some washers have self-leveling rear legs—tilting the machine forward and setting it back down resets them.
- For manual rear legs, use a wrench to adjust height as needed.
- Make sure all four feet are solidly on the floor—no wobbles!
6. Recheck the Level
After each adjustment:
- Always use the level to double-check both directions.
- Make fine adjustments until the bubble is centered.
7. Secure the Washer and Plug It Back In
- Once you’re satisfied, move the washer back into place.
- Double-check with the level one more time, as the floor itself can have subtle slopes.
- Secure locking nuts on adjustable feet if present.
- Plug the washer back in and reconnect hoses.
Tips for Best Results
- Even Small Tilts Matter: Even a slight angle can cause big problems at high spin speeds.
- Don’t Use Shims or Cardboard: Temporary fixes like coins, wood, or paper under feet will compress, shift, and make the issue worse over time.
- Check for Uneven Floors: If your laundry room floor is not level, adjust each foot for best results.
- Repeat After Moving: Always re-level your machine after moving or cleaning underneath it.
- Test with a Load: Run a short spin cycle with a damp load to ensure stability before regular use.
Special Considerations for Different Washers
Top-Loading Washers
- Easier to tip forward if they have self-leveling rear legs.
- Heavier loads on one side can affect balance—leveling helps prevent this.
Front-Loading Washers
- Often have four threaded legs, all adjustable.
- More sensitive to being off-level due to high spin speeds.
High-Efficiency Machines
- These machines spin faster and can “walk” if not perfectly level.
- It’s even more important to double-check adjustments.
Benefits of a Properly Leveled Washing Machine
- Longer Appliance Life: Reduces mechanical wear and tear.
- Quieter Operation: Fewer vibrations mean a better laundry-day experience.
- Better Cleaning: Machine works as intended, so your clothes get cleaner.
- Lower Repair Costs: Prevents leaks, broken drums, and mold from uneven water distribution.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Washer Still Moves After Leveling?
- Double-check that all feet are in firm contact with the floor.
- Look for worn or missing rubber pads under the feet.
- Re-examine if the floor itself is uneven—sometimes moving the washer to a different spot helps.
Difficult to Adjust Rear Feet?
- Consult your user manual for specific guidance—some models have unique designs.
- If feet are stuck, a little WD-40 can help loosen threaded legs.
Self-Leveling Feet Won’t Reset?
- Make sure no debris is wedged under the rear legs.
- Repeat the tilt-forward then set-down maneuver with a firm, even hand.
Practical Advice for Laundry Day Stability
- Periodically check your washer’s level, especially if you notice more noise or movement.
- Avoid overloading or underloading the washer—imbalanced loads can make even a level washer shake.
- Spread laundry out evenly in drum before starting a cycle.
- Clean beneath and around your washer regularly to keep all feet in good contact with the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my washing machine is level?
Place a bubble level on top of your washer in both left-right and front-back directions. If the bubble stays centered, your machine is level. Additionally, press gently on each corner—if it doesn’t rock or move, the feet are all touching the floor evenly.
Can an unlevel washing machine cause damage?
Yes! An uneven washer can vibrate excessively, damaging internal parts, hoses, and even your plumbing. Over time, this can lead to leaks, a broken drum, or expensive repairs. Proper leveling is essential to keep your machine running smoothly for years.
How often should I check my washer’s level?
It’s a good idea to check the level after installing the machine, if you move it for cleaning, or if you notice unusual noise or movement. Inspect every six months as part of regular appliance maintenance.
Is it necessary to level both front and rear legs?
Absolutely. All four feet (or however many your model has) must be firmly touching the floor and correctly adjusted for true stability. Sometimes, only the front legs are adjustable, but it’s critical to follow your washer’s specific instructions for best results.
What should I do if my washing machine keeps going off-balance?
First, re-check that all legs are properly adjusted and secured. Make sure the floor underneath is flat and strong. Always balance your laundry loads, spreading clothes evenly around the drum. If issues persist, worn suspension or shocks could be at fault—schedule a service call if needed.
In Summary
Leveling your washing machine is a simple yet essential task that can save you from headaches, costly repairs, and noisy spin cycles. With just a few tools, a little patience, and regular checkups, you can keep your washer running quietly and efficiently for years. Take a few minutes today to check your washer’s footing—your laundry room (and your ears) will thank you!