Unbalanced Load in Washing Machine

What Is an Unbalanced Load and Why It Happens

An unbalanced load happens when clothes inside the washing machine are not spread out evenly. This disrupts the spin cycle and causes shaking, banging, and sometimes a complete stop of the wash program.

Common reasons include heavy items sticking together, loading one bulky item, or mixing lightweight and heavyweight fabrics in the same load. Modern washers may show error codes like UB, UE, UL, or DC. If ignored, this problem can lead to part failures, water leaks, or damage to the drum mount.

How to Know It's an Unbalanced Load

You can recognize this issue without opening the washer. These are the most common signs:

• Strong vibration during spin The machine shakes noticeably and may shift from its original position.
• Multiple failed spin attempts The cycle starts and stops several times without completing properly.
• Loud banging noises Sudden hitting or knocking sounds during the spin process.
• Error messages on screen Codes like UB, UL, or DC appear during the wash.
• Clothes clumped to one side Laundry inside the drum forms a heavy bundle instead of spinning freely.

What the Repair Includes and How Difficult It Is

If redistributing the laundry does not help, professional repair is usually needed. A technician will perform a full check and may do the following:

• Adjust the machine’s level Making sure the washer stands firmly and evenly on the floor.
• Inspect the suspension system Checking shock absorbers, springs, or dampers for signs of wear or damage.
• Test the drum support Looking for cracks, movement, or worn bearings in the central support system.
• Replace damaged parts Installing new components if any internal hardware is loose, broken, or weak.

Depending on the washer model, reaching these parts may require partial disassembly. This work is technical and not recommended for untrained users. Mistakes can damage the drum or control system.

Why You Should Call a Technician

Unbalanced loads can slowly ruin your washing machine. Each time it runs in this condition, internal parts wear out faster. Over time, this leads to higher repair costs and shorter appliance life.

Swift Appliance Repair has years of experience with this issue. We service all major brands and carry parts for most repairs. Our technician can visit the same day and solve the problem quickly and safely.

Schedule Service Online

If your washer is shaking, making noise, or showing load errors, it is time to take action. Use the form below to request a visit from a certified technician. We will restore quiet, stable performance to your appliance without delay.