If your GE washer is shaking violently, it can be a frustrating and concerning experience. Fortunately, there are several potential causes for this issue, and most of them can be easily resolved with a little troubleshooting. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various reasons why your GE washer may be shaking excessively and provide step-by-step solutions to help you restore it to smooth operation.

Causes of Violent Shaking in GE Washers

1. Uneven or Unbalanced Load

One of the most common causes of violent shaking in GE washers is an uneven or unbalanced load. When clothes are not evenly distributed within the drum, it can cause the washer to wobble excessively during the spin cycle.

Solution:

• Pause the wash cycle and redistribute the clothes evenly within the drum.
• Make sure that heavy items, such as towels or blankets, are placed at the bottom of the load.
• Avoid overloading the washer, as this can also contribute to unbalance.

2. Worn or Damaged Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers are designed to dampen vibrations and prevent the washer from shaking excessively. Over time, shock absorbers can wear out or become damaged, which can lead to violent shaking.

Solution:

• Inspect the shock absorbers for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks.
• If the shock absorbers are worn or damaged, they will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

3. Loose or Damaged Drive Belt

The drive belt is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the drum. A loose or damaged drive belt can cause the drum to wobble and shake excessively.

Solution:

• Check the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage.
• If the drive belt is loose, tighten it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• If the drive belt is damaged, it will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

4. Worn or Damaged Drum Bearings

Drum bearings support the weight of the drum and allow it to rotate smoothly. Worn or damaged drum bearings can cause the drum to wobble and shake excessively.

Solution:

• Listen for any grinding or squealing noises coming from the washer during the spin cycle. These noises may indicate worn or damaged drum bearings.
• If the drum bearings are worn or damaged, they will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

5. Misaligned Motor

A misaligned motor can cause the washer to shake excessively during the spin cycle. This can occur if the motor has shifted out of position or if the motor mounts have become loose.

Solution:

• Check the motor mounts to ensure that they are tight and secure.
• If the motor has shifted out of position, it will need to be realigned by a qualified technician.

6. Broken or Damaged Tub Spider

The tub spider is a component that supports the inner tub of the washer. If the tub spider is broken or damaged, it can cause the inner tub to wobble and shake excessively.

Solution:

• Inspect the tub spider for any signs of damage, such as cracks or broken arms.
• If the tub spider is broken or damaged, it will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

7. Faulty Electronic Control Board

The electronic control board is responsible for controlling the operation of the washer. A faulty electronic control board can send incorrect signals to the washer’s motor, which can cause the washer to shake excessively.

Solution:

• Reset the washer by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in.
• If the reset does not resolve the issue, the electronic control board may need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

The Bottom Line: Restoring Smooth Operation to Your GE Washer

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and resolve the cause of the violent shaking in your GE washer. Remember to always unplug the washer before performing any troubleshooting or repairs. If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, do not hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Why is my GE washer shaking so badly that it’s walking across the floor?

A: Excessive shaking can indicate a serious issue, such as worn or damaged shock absorbers, a loose or damaged drive belt, or a misaligned motor. It’s important to stop using the washer immediately and contact a qualified technician for assistance.

Q: How can I prevent my GE washer from shaking violently in the future?

A: To prevent violent shaking, ensure that the load is evenly distributed, avoid overloading the washer, and keep the washer leveled on a stable surface. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as cleaning the lint filter and inspecting the shock absorbers, can help extend the life of your washer and prevent future issues.

Q: Can I replace the shock absorbers in my GE washer on my own?

A: While it is possible to replace the shock absorbers in your GE washer on your own, it is recommended that you contact a qualified appliance repair technician for this task. Shock absorbers can be heavy and awkward to handle, and improper installation can damage the washer.