A washing machine that shakes violently can be scary. One minute it’s washing clothes, and the next it’s banging, jumping, and shaking so hard it sounds like it might fall apart. Many homeowners panic, unplug the washer, and assume it’s completely broken.
The good news?
In most cases, a washer shaking violently is caused by common, fixable issues — especially if you catch them early.
In this guide, we’ll explain why washing machines shake, what you can safely check yourself, and when it’s time to call a professional before serious damage happens.
Why a Washer Shaking Violently Is a Serious Problem
A washing machine is designed to spin at high speed — but not violently. When shaking becomes extreme, it can lead to:
- Damage to internal parts
- Broken suspension or shock absorbers
- Cracked drum or tub
- Leaking water
- Costly motor or bearing failure
- Damage to floors and walls
Ignoring violent shaking often turns a small issue into an expensive repair.
1. Unbalanced Load (Most Common Reason)
This is the number one cause of violent washer shaking.
Why it happens
When clothes bunch up on one side of the drum, the washer spins unevenly. Heavy items like:
- blankets
- towels
- jeans
- comforters
are especially likely to cause imbalance.
Easy fix
- Pause the cycle
- Open the lid or door
- Rearrange the clothes evenly
- Remove one or two heavy items
- Restart the wash
Always mix large items with smaller ones to keep balance.
2. Washer Not Level on the Floor
Even a slightly uneven floor can cause serious shaking during the spin cycle.
Signs
- Washer rocks when you push it
- Shaking gets worse during high spin
- Loud banging against walls
How to fix
- Check the washer’s feet underneath
- Adjust them so all four feet touch the floor
- Use a level if possible
- Tighten the lock nuts once adjusted
A washer that isn’t level will never spin smoothly.
3. Shipping Bolts Were Never Removed (Front‑Load Washers)
This is a very common mistake in newly installed washers.
What are shipping bolts?
They are metal bolts installed during transport to protect the drum.
If they’re still installed:
- The washer will shake extremely
- The drum cannot move properly
- Damage can happen very fast
What to do
- Check the back of the washer
- Remove shipping bolts (follow the manual)
If unsure, stop using the washer and call a technician immediately.
4. Worn Shock Absorbers or Suspension Springs
Over time, internal parts that stabilize the drum wear out.
Common signs
- Washer shakes violently even with small loads
- Banging noise during spin
- Drum feels loose when pushed by hand
Why this happens
Shock absorbers and suspension springs keep the drum steady. When they fail, the drum moves too freely.
This is not a DIY fix for most homeowners. Continued use can damage the tub or motor.
5. Overloading the Washer
Too many clothes can overload the drum and motor.
What happens
- Washer struggles to spin
- Clothes stay soaked
- Extreme vibration occurs
Rule of thumb
- Leave at least one hand’s width of space at the top
- Clothes should move freely inside the drum
Overloading shortens the life of your washer.
6. Uneven or Weak Flooring
Older homes, second floors, or laundry rooms with weak subfloors often cause washer shaking.
Signs
- Floor vibrates when the washer spins
- Washer moves even when leveled
- Shaking affects nearby rooms
Simple solutions
- Use anti‑vibration pads
- Move the washer to a stronger surface
- Reinforce flooring if possible
The washer may not be broken — the floor could be the issue.
7. Drum Bearings Starting to Fail
This is a more serious issue.
Warning signs
- Loud rumbling noise
- Metal grinding sound
- Drum feels rough when turning
Bad bearings allow the drum to wobble, causing violent shaking.
This repair is complex and usually requires professional service.
8. Control Board or Spin Speed Issues
Sometimes the washer spins too fast due to a faulty sensor or control board.
Symptoms
- Spins wildly even with balanced loads
- Doesn’t slow down when it should
- Shakes more over time
This electrical issue should be handled by a technician to prevent motor damage.
When Washer Shaking Means It’s Time for Professional Repair
If your washer continues shaking violently even after balancing loads and leveling the machine, the problem is likely inside the washer. Worn shock absorbers, broken suspension springs, failing drum bearings, or motor issues can all cause severe vibration. These problems don’t fix themselves — and continued use can lead to major damage, water leaks, or a completely broken washing machine.
Many Tampa homeowners wait too long and end up paying more than necessary. Catching the issue early with a professional inspection can save you money and prevent damage to your laundry room, flooring, and washer.
Expert Washer Repair in Tampa You Can Trust
If you’re dealing with a washer shaking violently in Tampa, don’t take risks or keep restarting the cycle. Get professional help from Appliances Fix & Care, your local experts in fast and reliable washer repair.
Appliances Fix & Care specializes in diagnosing and fixing washing machines that shake, bang, vibrate, or walk across the floor. Their experienced technicians service all major washer brands and models, and they know exactly how Florida homes and flooring affect washer performance.
Whether your washer needs suspension repair, bearing replacement, motor service, or professional leveling, Appliances Fix & Care offers dependable solutions that get your washer running smoothly and safely again.
Call Appliances Fix & Care today for expert washer repair in Tampa and protect your washing machine before small problems turn into costly breakdowns.