Kenmore Washing Machine: unbalanced load

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine vibrating excessively or pausing during wash or spin cycles? This issue often arises from an unbalanced load, caused by unevenly distributed laundry or an overloaded drum. In some cases, it may also be due to the washer not being level or worn suspension components. Discover effective solutions to restore balance and efficiency to your appliance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore official guidance emphasizes even load distribution to prevent imbalance

Possible Causes

Uneven or overloaded laundry inside drum

How to Identify: Washer stops mid‑cycle, shakes violently, or shows unbalanced warnings; clothes clumped to one side

Part: Drum/Load distribution

Washer not level on floor

How to Identify: Washer rocks or makes loud thumping noises during spin even with balanced load adjustments

Part: Leveling feet/Base

Suspension/shock absorbers worn or damaged

How to Identify: Persistent imbalance after load and leveling fixes; loud banging at high speeds

Part: Suspension rods/Shocks

Floor surface irregular or unstable

How to Identify: Washer skids, moves, or vibrates even after leveling feet adjusted

Part: Floor/Washer placement

DIY Solutions

Redistribute and reduce load

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Stop cycle and open lid
  2. Evenly distribute clothes around the drum
  3. Ensure the drum is not overfilled — keep space at top
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force clothes into drum tight

Level washer feet

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: Adjustable wrench, Bubble level
  1. Place level on top of washer
  2. Adjust each foot until washer is level
  3. Tighten nuts on each foot to lock in place
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before adjusting feet

Professional Repairs

Replace suspension/shock absorbers

Estimated Cost: $60 - $180

When to Call a Professional

Persistent loud banging or shaking after proper load and leveling adjustments
Visible damage to suspension or internal components
Water leaks or error codes not resolved by basic fixes

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check and level feet: Future unbalance and vibration issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Distribute laundry evenly: Unbalanced load detection and vibration
    Frequency: Every use
  • Inspect suspension parts: Internal wear‑related imbalance
    Frequency: Annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine unbalanced load?
Common causes include uneven or overloaded laundry, washer not level, and worn suspension parts.
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine unbalanced load myself?
Redistribute the laundry evenly and ensure the drum is not overloaded. Level the washer feet if necessary.
How much does it cost to fix unbalanced load?
Professional repairs for replacing suspension/shock absorbers can cost between $60 and $180.
When should I call a technician for unbalanced load?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you suspect damaged components, it's time to call a technician.

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

  • Worn or damaged suspension springs affecting tub stability
  • Improper load distribution leading to imbalance
  • Faulty or miscalibrated water level sensor causing incorrect load detection

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and redistribute the load in the washing machine. Ensure that heavy items are balanced with lighter ones. Run a small load to test if the issue persists.

  2. Inspect and replace the suspension springs if they are worn or damaged. This involves removing the outer casing of the washer to access the springs.

  3. Test and recalibrate the water level sensor. Check for blockages in the hose and ensure it is securely connected. Replace the sensor if it is malfunctioning.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Hesitant to repair my 33yr old washing machine, but only jun...

Community Discussions

tub is leaning to one corner and wild-rides any unbalanced load

Replaced the counterweight spring, reterminated the water level sensor hose, installed new machine water valves, and replaced the hose from the valves to the tub.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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