What is an out-of-balance load?

If the load is not evenly distributed in the basket when spinning begins, the load will create movement in the basket, resulting in an out-of-balance load.  You many hear a banging noise and see some vibration while this occurs.

Your washer has sensors that detect if it is out of balance. It will then undergo a "correction" process to try to help the washer return to balance. This process involves adding extra water and agitation to try correct the out-of-balance situation. If you notice that your washer cycle time has increased, or has a long cycle time, it may be out of balance, and you may be going through this correction procedure. Allow the machine to continue.

If the washer was unable to self-correct the out-of-balance load, you may see an error code (the exact code varies by model), and/or the cycle will not complete.

Below are tips for preventing and correcting out-of-balance loads and/or vibration during the cycle. 

Is the washer properly loaded?

Place the clothing in loose heaps evenly around the agitator to avoid vibration caused by an unbalanced wash load. 

Are heavy or large items being washed?

When washing large or heavy items, vibration and out-of-balance loads can occur. There are several things to consider for the best wash performance:

• Always check the care label to ensure the item is machine washable in a top-load washer (some bulky items state to only wash in a front-load commercial-style washer). 
• For items that absorb a lot of water, such as quilts or cotton blankets, distribute the items around the wash basket in a doughnut shape around the impeller. 
• It is not recommended to wash a single absorbent article. For example, Do not wash one rug. Wash two or three to balance the load for a good spin.  
• Similar items should be washed together. Make sure that the top of the impeller is visible.
• Never overload the washer. Clothes should be loosely added and only as high as the top row of holes in the wash basket. 
• Do not add more water - there must be the engagement of the impeller and the clothes. If there is too much water, the items will float, and the cleaning action will be less due to the design of cycles.

CLICK HERE for more information on washing large or bulky items.

Is the washer level?

The washer must be level, and all four washer feet must be in firm contact with the floor. Try to rock the washer diagonally, from corner to corner, with your hands.  If the washer rocks, it needs to be leveled.  If not properly leveled the load may become unbalanced, causing the machine not to spin correctly.  This can also cause the washer to make excessive noise and/or vibration, especially during the spin cycle.

If a drain pan is used under the washer, the leveling legs may need to be adjusted to raise the height of the machine.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to level your washer