Having a properly level washing machine is important for it to function optimally and prevent issues like vibration, noise and poor drainage. Leveling a washing machine may seem daunting, but it can be done relatively easily by most homeowners with some simple tools and steps. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through everything you need to know to properly level a washing machine.
Why Leveling a Washing Machine Is Important
There are several key reasons why taking the time to correctly level your washing machine is worth the effort:
- Reduces Vibration and Noise – An unleveled washing machine can vibrate excessively and make loud banging or grinding noises, especially during the spin cycle. Proper leveling helps minimize vibration by stabilizing the appliance.
- Prevents Problems Draining – If a washer is unleveled, it can have issues draining completely after cycles finish. This can leave standing water in places it shouldn’t be. Leveling helps with proper water drainage.
- Improves Cleaning Performance – When a washer is unleveled, it can lead to uneven distribution of detergent and water in the tub. Leveling helps ensure clothes get fully saturated and cleaned.
- Avoids Leaks – An unleveled washing machine is prone to developing small leaks over time as water doesn’t drain properly. Stopping leaks before they start is a good reason to level.
- Helps Machine Last Longer – Excess vibration from an unleveled washer can cause stress and wear on components over time. Leveling helps reduce premature breakdowns.
- Improves Balance – Leveling helps keep the machine from rocking or shifting out of place during the spin cycle. This improves overall stability.
Taking the time to correctly level your washing machine using the steps in this guide will help the appliance run smoothly, quietly, and efficiently while potentially extending its lifespan.
How to Tell if Your Washing Machine Is Unlevel
Before leveling your washing machine, it’s important to check if it’s unlevel in the first place. Here are some ways you can easily determine if your washer needs to be leveled:
- Use a bubble level – The most precise way is to place a small spirit level directly on top of the washing machine. If the bubble is centered between the lines, it’s level. If it’s off to one side, it’s unleveled.
- Check for rocking – Gently push the top corners of the washer to see if it rocks back and forth at all. Any rocking indicates the machine isn’t properly leveled.
- Eyeball it – Stand in front and look at the machine from the side. If it clearly seems tilted down or unbalanced, then it likely needs leveling.
- Listen for noise – Run a high spin cycle and listen from outside the room. If you hear banging, grinding or excessive vibration noise, unevenness could be the culprit.
- Check for leaks – Small leaks around the front feet or back of the machine may be caused by improper leveling.
- Look for drainage issues – Standing water left in the drum, leaks from the door, or backed up drain lines can indicate a leveling problem.
If you detect any signs your washer isn’t sitting evenly, it’s best to take the time to properly level it. The process is fairly quick and easy in most cases with the right tools.
Tools and Materials Needed for Leveling a Washing Machine
Leveling a washing machine is typically a straightforward process that can be done in less than an hour with some simple tools and supplies:
- Spirit level or bubble level – An accurate small level is essential for checking level during the process. A 2-3 foot level is ideal.
- Adjustable wrench – For turning leveling feet and bolts as needed to make adjustments.
- Rags – Helpful for cleanup and getting under the machine if needed.
- Gloves – Protect hands when tilting or moving the washer during leveling.
- Wax paper – Makes small slide adjustments easier if washing machine is on tile or wood floors.
- Shims – Used to fill any gaps under the feet if needed to stabilize the machine.
- Screwdriver – Sometimes helpful if the leveling feet won’t turn by hand.
Most washing machines have built-in self-leveling rear feet that can be adjusted from inside the front panel as part of the leveling process. Some older washers may need shims or other improvising.
How to Level a Washing Machine Step-by-Step
With the right tools on hand, here is a step-by-step guide to properly level a washing machine:
Step 1: Clear Space and Access Back Feet
- Remove any items or obstructions in front of and behind the washing machine for easier access.
- Unplug power cord from outlet for safety.
- If washer is against a wall, pull it out carefully to access the back feet if needed.
Step 2: Check Initial Level
- Place level on top of washer and check if the bubble is centered.
- Also check for rocking and stability by gently pushing the top from side to side.
- If off-level, identify which corners are higher and lower. You can also spin the tub and watch for unevenness.
Step 3: Adjust Front Feet Up or Down
- The front feet are threaded and can be turned counter-clockwise to raise them up or clockwise to lower them.
- Use an adjustable wrench to turn each foot accordingly until the washer seems mostly stable.
- Adjusting front feet helps get the washer close to level.
Step 4: Adjust Rear Self-Leveling Feet
- The rear feet on most washing machines can be adjusted up or down using a leveling bolt inside the front panel.
- Use a wrench to turn each bolt clockwise to lower or counter-clockwise to raise each back corner.
- Check with the level frequently and make adjustments as needed.
Step 5: Fine Tune Level and Stability
- Continue adjusting all feet incrementally until the spirit level shows the machine is level in all directions.
- Push down on corners to check for any rocking. Readjust as needed if unstable.
- Slide wax paper under feet while making final small adjustments to dial-in perfect level.
Step 6: Tighten Jam Nuts on Feet
- Once leveled, the jam nuts on each foot should be tightened to firmly secure each foot in place using a wrench.
- This prevents feet from moving later and throwing the machine out of level.
Step 7: Test Operation and Stability
- Push washer back into position against wall if needed.
- Plug power cord back in and run a test high spin cycle.
- Watch and listen for any signs of vibration or instability caused by unevenness.
- Make any final tweaks to get it perfectly leveled and stable.
With these steps, you should be able to confidently level your washing machine and have it operating smoothly and quietly on all types of flooring surfaces. Just take your time, check with the level often, and make adjustments until everything is dialed-in just right.
Tips for Leveling a Washing Machine on Specific Floor Types
The techniques for properly leveling a washing machine are basically the same whether it’s sitting on tile, wood, concrete or carpeted floors. However, there are some additional tips to keep in mind for certain floor types when going through the process:
Tile or Wood Floors
- Use wax paper under the feet to make sliding easier when adjusting.
- Check for uneven tiles that could rock the washer if feet aren’t positioned correctly. Use shims if needed.
- Engage locking wheels if present to prevent shifting.
Concrete Floors
- Make sure there is no flaking or crumbling concrete that could throw the machine out of level.
- Use shims under the feet if needed to fill any low spots or gaps in the floor.
Carpeted Floors
- Press firmly on the corners when leveling to compress the carpet down and prevent the machine from settling later.
- Use flat boards or plywood under the feet if needed to prevent sinking into the carpet over time.
Adapting to the flooring type while using the standard leveling techniques will help ensure your washing machine stays securely leveled for the long haul.
FAQ About Leveling Washing Machines
Leveling a washing machine is usually a straightforward task, but some key questions often come up. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
How often should you re-level a washing machine?
Washers should be checked every 4-6 months to make sure they are still level. If not, repeating the leveling process helps the machine operate best.
Why do washing machine feet keep coming loose?
If the jam nuts on the leveling feet are not tightened properly after leveling the washer, the vibration can eventually cause them to loosen up and require re-leveling. Always be sure to tighten them.
My floors are uneven. What’s the best way to level the washing machine?
For extremely uneven floors, shimming under the feet with wood, plastic or metal shims can help fill gaps and stabilize the machine during leveling.
Should I level front-load and top-load washers differently?
The same general leveling process applies to both front and top-load washing machines. The key difference is accessing the rear self-leveling feet, which may require removing a top panel on some front-load models.
How can I stop my washing machine from walking or moving?
Check that all the leveling feet are firmly touching the floor and tightened properly. Engage any locking wheels on the unit. Also, be sure the floor itself is solid and even – shim if needed.
Do I really need a leveling tool or can I just eyeball it?
A small spirit level is highly recommended for an accurate leveled washing machine. The human eye can be deceiving so a level helps dial it in just right.
Taking the time to properly level your top or front loading washing machine ensures it will operate as quietly, smoothly and efficiently as possible. Just follow the step-by-step instructions and use the right tools for the floor type, and your washer will be perfectly level and stable.
How to Level a Washing Machine: Conclusion
A properly leveled washing machine is crucial for optimal functionality and longevity. Taking the time to correctly adjust all the feet using a spirit level as a guide will minimize vibration, reduce noise, improve drainage, enhance cleaning performance and potentially stop leaks before they happen.
Just be sure to use all the right tools for the job, make small gradual adjustments to each foot as needed, and tighten the jam nuts securely once leveled. Test for stability and noise when finished. A level washing machine will lead to clean laundry and peace of mind.
With some basic mechanical skills and the steps and tips provided, you should now feel confident in your ability to properly level a washing machine on any type of flooring. Just remember to have patience, take your time, and dial it in with precision. Keep your washer running smoothly for years to come with proper leveling.
Additional Resources
For more information on leveling washing machines, check out these helpful external resources:
Tips for Leveling a Washing Machine from The Home Depot
Video Tutorial for Leveling a Washer from Lowe’s
Step-by-Step Guide for Leveling from Whirlpool