Amana Washing Machine: excessive vibration during spin cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing excessive vibration during the spin cycle of your Amana washing machine? This issue often manifests as shaking, loud noises, and movement across the floor, indicating potential problems that need addressing.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana emphasizes proper load distribution and leveling; shipping bolts must be removed on front‑load models.

Possible Causes

Unbalanced laundry load

How to Identify: Occurs when heavy/bulky items cluster to one side; vibration reduces when load is redistributed.

Part: Drum load distribution

Washer not level or improperly installed

How to Identify: Washer rocks when pushed gently; vibration persists even with balanced load.

Part: Leveling feet, floor support

Worn/damaged shock absorbers or suspension rods/springs

How to Identify: Persistent vibration with balanced load and level machine; possible noise or erratic drum movement inside casing.

Part: Shock absorbers, suspension rods/springs

Shipping bolts not removed

How to Identify: Occurs on newly installed or relocated machines; excessive vibration from first use.

Part: Shipping bolts

Weak or uneven floor/unsupported location

How to Identify: Machine vibrates more on one side; pad or plywood under machine reduces vibration.

Part: Floor/support surface

Worn drum bearings or internal balance mechanism

How to Identify: Grinding or rumbling noises accompany vibration; vibration continues after other causes addressed.

Part: Drum bearings/balance system

DIY Solutions

Redistribute Laundry Load

Easy 2-5 minutes
  1. Pause the cycle.
  2. Open door and redistribute clothes evenly around drum.
  3. Avoid overloading or washing single heavy items alone.
  4. Restart wash cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force door open during spin.

Level the Washing Machine

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: bubble level, wrench or pliers
  1. Place bubble level on machine top to check level side-to-side and front-to-back.
  2. Adjust the feet by turning them to raise/lower corners until level.
  3. Tighten lock nuts on feet if present.
  4. Test with spin cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is unplugged if moving it.

Remove Shipping Bolts

Moderate 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: wrench or socket set
  1. Locate shipping bolts on rear of machine.
  2. Unscrew and remove all shipping bolts and spacers.
  3. Store bolts for future moves.
  4. Test spin cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug machine before working at the back.

Professional Repairs

Replace Shock Absorbers/Suspension Springs

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200 for parts

Inspect and Replace Drum Bearings/Balance Mechanism

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Vibration persists after load balancing and leveling adjustments
Grinding, rumbling, or unusual mechanical noises
Evidence of broken internal components like bearings or shocks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check level and leveling feet: Vibration due to uneven installation
    Frequency: monthly
  • Avoid overloading and uneven loads: Unbalanced load vibration
    Frequency: each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Washing Machine excessive vibration during spin cycle?
Common causes include unbalanced laundry loads, improper leveling, and worn shock absorbers.
How do I fix Amana Washing Machine excessive vibration during spin cycle myself?
Redistribute the laundry evenly, level the machine, and remove shipping bolts if applicable.
How much does it cost to fix excessive vibration during spin cycle?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for excessive vibration during spin cycle?
If DIY fixes do not resolve the issue or if you suspect damaged internal components.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Unbalanced load in the drum
  • Worn or damaged suspension rods
  • Improper leveling of the washing machine

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Redistribute the laundry evenly in the drum. Ensure that heavy items are balanced with lighter ones. Run a test spin cycle to check for improvement.

  2. Inspect and replace worn or damaged suspension rods. Unplug the machine, remove the top panel, and check the rods for wear. Replace if necessary.

  3. Level the washing machine using a level tool. Adjust the feet of the machine until it is stable and does not wobble. Recheck the spin cycle.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Help with Amana washer top loader

Community Discussions

shakes violently and jumps across the floor

Check suspension rods; if the tub bounces easily, they may need replacement.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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