A washer that shakes across the floor, leaks on the first load or shows a drain error is usually an installation problem, not a broken machine. Whether you’re installing a front-loader or a top-loader, these are the steps that matter and the mistakes to avoid.
Before the Washer Arrives
- Measure the space and the path. Check the width and depth of the laundry area, including room for hoses behind the washer and for the door to open fully on a front-loader.
- Check the water valves. Hot and cold shut-off valves should turn easily and not drip. Old valves that are seized or weeping should be replaced before installation.
- Check the drain. Most washers drain into a standpipe or a laundry sink. The standpipe must be tall enough and open enough for the drain hose. The washer manual gives the required height.
- Check the outlet. A grounded 120-volt outlet within reach of the cord. No extension cords.
- Check the floor. A solid, level floor makes a big difference, especially for front-loaders that spin fast.
Installation Step by Step
- Remove the shipping bolts. Front-load washers have transit bolts in the back that lock the drum for delivery. Run the washer with them in and it will shake violently and can be damaged. Keep the bolts in case you move.
- Use new fill hoses. Braided stainless steel hoses are a good choice. Check that each hose has its rubber washer, connect hot to hot and cold to cold, and tighten by hand plus a little more with pliers. Don’t overtighten.
- Set up the drain hose. Hook it into the standpipe with the hose guide that came with the washer, and secure it so it can’t pop out. Don’t push the hose too far down the pipe or seal it airtight. That can siphon water out of the washer during the fill.
- Move the washer into place without kinking the fill or drain hoses. Leave a few inches behind it.
- Level the washer. Adjust the front legs, and on some models the self-adjusting rear legs, until the washer is level side to side and front to back. Then tighten the lock nuts on the legs so they don’t creep. Rock the washer diagonally: it shouldn’t wobble.
- Turn on the water and check for leaks at both valves and at the back of the washer.
- Run a test cycle. Run a short cycle with no clothes. Watch the fill, the drain and the spin, then check the floor and the connections again.
Mistakes That Cause Most Problems
- Shipping bolts left in. The number-one cause of a brand-new front-loader banging and walking.
- Reusing old rubber hoses. They harden and crack with age. A burst fill hose can flood a laundry room fast.
- Drain hose sealed into the standpipe. It can cause siphoning, constant refilling or slow draining.
- Not tightening the leg lock nuts. The washer slowly loses level and starts to vibrate again.
- Wrong detergent. High-efficiency washers need HE detergent in small amounts. Too much causes suds, error codes and odors.
Stacked and Closet Installations
Stacking a dryer on a front-loader needs the stacking kit made for your models. In a tight closet, check the clearances in both manuals and plan the dryer vent before the washer goes in. Installing the dryer too? See our dryer installation guide.
When to Call a Professional
Have the washer installed by a technician if the water valves are old or leaking, if the drain is questionable, for stacked units, or if you’d rather not move a heavy machine. If a newly installed washer still won’t drain, spin or start, we can diagnose it. See our appliance repair services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to remove the shipping bolts?
Yes, on front-load washers. They lock the drum for transport. Running the washer with them in causes heavy shaking and can damage the machine.
Can I reuse my old washer hoses?
It’s better not to. Fit new hoses with every new washer, and check them every year for bulges, cracks or rust at the fittings.
Why is my new washer shaking so much?
Check the shipping bolts first, then the leveling. An unbalanced load of heavy items, such as a single bath mat, can also cause it.
Why does my washer keep filling and draining?
The drain hose is probably too low or pushed too deep into the standpipe, which siphons water out. Reposition it with the hose guide.
Do you install washers in my area?
We install and repair washers in Sacramento, West Sacramento, Davis, Woodland, Dixon, Vacaville, Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova.
Book Washer Installation or Repair
Top Town Appliance Repair Service installs and repairs front-load and top-load washers from Whirlpool, Maytag, Samsung, LG, GE, Kenmore, Bosch, Electrolux and more. Call (510) 677-7166 or book an appointment online. Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
