How To Fix A Walking Washing Machine
If you have a washing machine that seems like it is trying to imitate a runway model, it is likely unbalanced. A heavy load can throw the machine off balance, which makes it walk across the floor. It may seem harmless, but this could scratch the floor, and damage the machine,. Here are tips to fix a walking washing machine.
Prepare to Work
For this project, you need: a carpenter's level, adjustable pliers, an adjustable wrench, and wood blocks. Before you level the washing machine, test the load size. Remove items until it stops moving.
If the load size isn't the problem, get an assistant to help you tilt the machine forward three or four inches. Sometimes the feet will level themselves. Give the back feet tap with your foot to encourage them.
If raising the washer doesn't work, unplug the washer, and move it from the wall. Shut off the water supply valves behind the machine on the wall. Set a bucket under the water hoses, and disconnect the nuts on them with a wrench.
Check The Balance
Set the level in the center of the washing machine at the top, so it sits side to side. A bubble that goes to the left indicates the right side is too high. A bubble that falls to the left indicates the right side is too high. Keep the level on its long, thin side for an accurate reading.
Place the level so it sits in the center front to back. If the bubble moves forward, the back is too high. A bubble that moves to the back indicates the front is too high.
Adjust Feet
Slide the machine out three or four inches from the wall to access the back feet. Get an assistant to help move the machine if needed.
Insert a wood block under the front feet while you adjust the back feet. Use the pliers to rotate the locking nut on the back feet. until they are level.
Rotate the lock nut left to lengthen and right to shorten. Remove the blocks, move the washer back in place, and do the same to the front feet.
Check for evenness on the front of the washer with a level, and make needed adjustments by rotating the feet. Set the level perpendicular to the front, and make needed adjustments. It is best to keep the feet closer to the floor, which decreases the chance of a moving washing machine.
Restore power and water, and wash a light load. If the washer still doesn't work, or you don't trust your skill, contact your local appliance services shop for help.
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