3 Simple Steps to Level a Washer

How To Level A Washer

When your washing machine is out of level, it can cause a number of problems, including:

The washer may vibrate excessively, which can damage the machine and the floor.
The washer may not drain properly, which can lead to flooding.
The washer may not spin properly, which can leave your clothes wet and wrinkled.

If you think your washing machine is out of level, it’s important to fix the problem as soon as possible. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather your tools. You will need a level, a wrench, and a pair of pliers.

2. Unplug the washing machine. This is important for safety reasons.

3. Level the washing machine. Place the level on top of the washing machine and adjust the leveling legs until the bubble is in the center of the level.

4. Tighten the leveling legs. Once the washing machine is level, tighten the leveling legs to secure them in place.

5. Plug in the washing machine. Once the leveling legs are tightened, plug in the washing machine and run a test cycle to make sure it is working properly.

Here are some additional tips for leveling a washing machine:

If your washing machine is on a pedestal, make sure that the pedestal is level before you level the washing machine.
If your washing machine is in a cabinet, make sure that the cabinet is level before you level the washing machine.
If you have a front-loading washing machine, make sure that the door is closed before you level the washing machine.

Unplug the Washer and Water Supply

To avoid any electrical hazards or water damage, it’s crucial to unplug your washer and shut off the water supply before attempting to level it. Follow these steps:

Prepare the Tools and Materials:

Adjustable wrench

Level

Shim (optional)

Unplug the Washer:

Locate the power cord and firmly disconnect it from the electrical outlet. Avoid tugging on the cord, as it could damage the wires. If your washer is permanently wired, you’ll need to turn off the circuit breaker or fuse controlling its power supply.

Shut off the Water Supply:

Identify the two water supply valves located at the back of the washer. These valves typically have red and blue handles, representing hot and cold water, respectively.
Using an adjustable wrench, carefully turn both valves clockwise to close them completely. Ensure they are tight enough to prevent any water leakage.
Open the washer’s faucets (cold and hot) to release any remaining water pressure in the lines.

Adjust the Rear Leveling Legs

To ensure your washer is stable and operates correctly, it’s crucial to level it properly. This involves adjusting the rear leveling legs.

Materials Required:

Wrench
Level

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Washer: Unplug the appliance and empty it of any clothing or items.
Locate the Leveling Legs: Identify the two adjustable legs located at the back corners of the washer.
Unlock the Legs: Locate the lock nuts that secure the legs in place. Use a wrench to loosen the lock nuts by turning them counterclockwise.
Adjust the Leg Height: Turn the legs clockwise to raise them or counterclockwise to lower them. Use the level to check the washer’s balance as you adjust the legs.
Check the Level: Place the level on top of the washer. If the bubble is not centered, adjust the corresponding leg until the bubble is level.
Lock the Legs: Once the washer is level, tighten the lock nuts by turning them clockwise. Ensure they are securely tightened to prevent the legs from loosening during operation.
Reattach the Feet: Some washers have rubber feet that can be removed during leveling. If your washer has feet, reattach them once the legs are locked.
Check Final Balance: After reattaching the feet, check the level again to ensure the washer remains balanced.
Reconnect: Plug the washer back in and restart it to ensure it is operating smoothly.

Replug the Washer and Water Supply

Once you’ve adjusted the feet, it’s time to replug the washer and water supply. Here’s how:

1. Check that the washer is unplugged.
2. Turn off the water supply valves to the washer.
3. Disconnect the water hoses from the washer.
4. Clean the rubber washers on the water hoses and the washer’s inlet valves.
5. Reconnect the water hoses to the washer and tighten the connections.
6. Turn on the water supply valves.
7. Plug the washer back in.

Checking for Leaks

After you’ve replugged the washer and water supply, check for leaks. Here’s how:

Place	What to Check
Water hoses	Look for any water leaking from the connections.
Inlet valves	Look for any water leaking from the valves.
Drain hose	Look for any water leaking from the hose.
Bottom of the washer	Look for any water leaking from the bottom of the washer.

If you find any leaks, tighten the connections or replace the hoses as needed.

Verify Levelness Using a Level

To verify the levelness of your washer, you will need a level. Place the level on top of the washer, parallel to the front and back edges. If the bubble in the level is centered, the washer is level. If the bubble is not centered, adjust the leveling legs accordingly. Repeat this process for the other two sides of the washer.

Here’s a detailed guide to using a level to check the levelness of your washer:

Gather the necessary materials: a level and a wrench.
Place the level on top of the washer, parallel to the front and back edges.
Check the position of the bubble in the level:
- If the bubble is centered, the washer is level.
- If the bubble is not centered, the washer is not level.
If the washer is not level, adjust the leveling legs accordingly:

To raise the front of the washer, turn the front leveling legs clockwise.
To lower the front of the washer, turn the front leveling legs counterclockwise.
To raise the back of the washer, turn the back leveling legs counterclockwise.
To lower the back of the washer, turn the back leveling legs clockwise.

Repeat steps 3-4 until the washer is level.
To check the levelness of the other two sides of the washer:

Move the level to the left side of the washer, parallel to the front and back edges.
Check the position of the bubble and adjust the leveling legs accordingly.
Move the level to the right side of the washer and repeat steps 9-10.

Once all three sides of the washer are level, your washer is ready to use.

Front	Back	Left	Right
Leveling Leg 1	Leveling Leg 2	Leveling Leg 3	Leveling Leg 4

Calibrate the Washer (If Applicable)

Certain washing machine models come equipped with a calibration feature. This function adjusts the machine’s sensors and settings to optimize performance and improve accuracy. If your washer has this capability, consider running the calibration cycle. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to calibrate your particular model.

To calibrate a typical washer, follow these steps:

Empty the washer of any clothes or items.
Close the washer’s lid or door securely.
Locate the calibration cycle on the washer’s control panel.
Start the calibration cycle and allow it to run to completion.
Once the cycle is finished, the washer will be calibrated and ready for use.

Troubleshooting Calibration Issues

If you encounter any issues during the calibration process, consult your owner’s manual or contact the washer manufacturer. Some common troubleshooting tips include:

Issue	Solution
Calibration cycle doesn’t start	Ensure the washer is empty and the door or lid is closed properly.
Calibration cycle stops prematurely	Check for any obstructions in the washer drum or drain hose. Clear any blockages and restart the cycle.

How to Level a Washer

A level washer is essential for proper operation. An unbalanced washer can cause excessive noise, vibration, and even damage to the machine. Leveling a washer is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.

To level a washer, you will need a level and a wrench or pliers. First, place the level on top of the washer. If the washer is not level, adjust the feet of the washer until the level is even. Once the washer is level, tighten the feet to secure them in place.

If your washer has adjustable legs, you can use a wrench or pliers to adjust the height of each leg. If your washer does not have adjustable legs, you can place shims under the legs to level the washer.