With the advent of such a device as a washing machine, housewives were able to devote much more time to their chores. After all, the washing machine took over all the main work of washing things.
But every barrel has its own fly in the ointment. Under incorrect operating conditions, the washing machine vibrates. This, in turn, is fraught with extremely serious consequences, including complete breakdown of the device.
For such situations, the market offers a lot of options for special anti-vibration stands and legs for a washing machine. It is thanks to them that the washing machine is able to continue working at its usual pace and without any complaints in operation.
In order to avoid excessive vibration in the future, you need to understand why the washing machine is jumping.
Causes of vibration
One of the main reasons for excessive vibration is improper installation of the device. In normal operating mode, the washing machine experiences enormous loads from the rotating drum. The average rotation speed is approximately 1000-1500 rpm. in a minute. Due to the unevenly filled drum, the centrifugal force shifts in different directions, causing powerful vibration.
Another cause of vibration is improper loading of laundry. This problem is quite easy to solve at the initial stage of washing. You just need to load the laundry as required by the washing machine operating instructions. In this case, quite strong vibration can occur, which can even cause harm to surrounding objects.
Also, do not exclude the option of poor flooring. Most manufacturers recommend installing the washing machine on a perfectly flat and dense floor, which will allow the washing machine to be fixed in the ideal position. But since most people are not able to provide such conditions in their apartment, during operation the machine can not only vibrate, but also jump.
This is not the entire list of causal factors that in one way or another affect the operation of the machine. Any, even minor, violation of the operating instructions can lead to constantly increasing periods of vibration.
If it turns out that the washing machine is jumping during operation, then measures need to be taken. How to do this?
What causes vibration?
Before you start choosing stands or a mat, you need to understand what causes the washing machine to vibrate. After all, the problem may be caused by a reluctance to study the instructions and, as a result, improper operation of the equipment.
Before starting operation, they forgot to remove the shipping bolts that hold the drum. This not only leads to vibration when washing and spinning clothes, but can be a serious cause of equipment breakdown. It is easy to exclude such a reason.
Just check for the presence of bolts on the rear wall and remove them if necessary.
The most common cause of vibration is violation of equipment installation rules. Be sure to check that the equipment is level. The ideal option for this would be to use the level used by builders.
How to quickly and inexpensively eliminate washing machine vibration
Signs of vibration can be eliminated using various methods - from purchasing special anti-vibration stands to completely redoing the floor covering. Naturally, most people choose the first option, since it is much cheaper and easier to implement. In order to completely eliminate all unnecessary vibrations, you just need to purchase inexpensive pads and use them for their intended purpose.
Anti-vibration stands are a rubber or plastic object that is placed under the support legs of the machine, thereby dampening the vibration vibrations that occur. Typically, the dimensions of a standard stand are 5x5 cm, which allows you to place them under the legs of the washing machine without much effort.
Types of stands and mats
The market offering stands for washing machines is quite wide. Depending on the material used, there are silicone and rubber stands for the machine. Such materials eliminate slipping on the floor and provide a vibration-absorbing effect.
Rubber stands for washing equipment are a budget option, but are not inferior in quality and service life to silicone ones. The color scheme of such products is quite limited.
White, black and transparent - these are all the options that the manufacturer offers.
The shape of the elastic bands used for stands can be either standard (round or square) or original (in the form of claws). According to the principle of implementation, all anti-vibration stands are similar. About 45-50 mm in diameter, they have a figured surface and a grooved bottom.
An anti-vibration mat acts as an alternative to stands and a mat is placed under the washing machine. Made from rubber, it has padded corners that reduce noise and vibration.
Types of anti-vibration stands
Depending on the severity of vibration, there is a fairly wide selection of anti-vibration stands. All of them can be divided into 3 groups:
- are common;
- individual;
- anti-vibration rubber feet for the washing machine.
General ones are usually made in the form of a mat that is placed under the base of the machine. At one time it was a fairly popular item that was used not only for the washing machine, but also for the dishwasher. The manufacturing materials are mainly inexpensive polymers, as well as high-strength rubber.
The advantages of such products include their high strength, ease of use, as well as high wear resistance. The disadvantages are its relatively high cost and large area, which under certain conditions can cause some discomfort to apartment residents.
Individual coasters have a slightly different shape. Their material of manufacture is also plastic and durable rubber. But in this case, their sizes are adjusted to the dimensions of the base of the legs. Due to this, they have a more compact shape, but at the same time it is necessary to devote a little more time to their installation.
The advantages of individual anti-vibration stands include their low cost, practicality of use and high wear resistance. The only disadvantage we can highlight is their installation feature, which requires the use of additional tools.
If it is not possible to use stands, you can always use special anti-vibration feet. The essence of their work is that in place of the old metal legs, special rubberized legs are installed, which also dampen vibration. Under certain conditions, this is not only reliable, but also profitable.
Anti-vibration stands
It is not always possible to completely solve the problem of noise and vibration of a washing unit. For example, changing tiles or re-laying floors just for the sake of it is very expensive. In addition, some machines themselves are quite noisy. There are much more acceptable solutions to the problem - anti-vibration stands.
These are small pads or caps made of elastic material, worn on the legs or placed under them.
Anti-vibration stands
Note! Not all manufacturers allow the use of such stands for their products. Be sure to clarify this point before purchasing them, otherwise in the event of a breakdown during the warranty period, you will not be able to repair the unit for free.
Operating principle
Regardless of the design, anti-vibration stands serve as shock absorbers for the legs, which take on the entire load from the unit. They:
- absorb noise and vibration;
- prevent slipping;
- compensate for slight unevenness of the base;
- due to the increased area of the supports, the pressure on the floor is distributed more evenly;
- and due to the thickness of the stands themselves, the gap between the floor and the electric motor increases, which improves its ventilation and cooling during the washing process.
Operating principle
Kinds
Anti-vibration stands are small attachments for each of the four legs of the washing machine. Once installed, they are practically invisible, so they do not spoil the appearance of the unit, and sometimes even decorate it.
They differ in color, which can be white, gray, black or transparent. The shape is most often square or round, although some manufacturers, to attract the attention of buyers, produce stands with a more interesting configuration - in the shape of a flower or a lion's paw.
Anti-vibration stands for washing machines TOPPERR square
Plastic round footrests
Paw-shaped stands
The dimensions of these products are not much different. Typically the diagonal or diameter of the stands is in the range of 45-65 mm. However, you need to pay attention to the dimensions, especially the internal ones - they must be no less than the diameter of the legs of the existing equipment.
It is worth checking the dimensions of the legs and stands in advance
By the way, such anti-vibration stands are often used for installation under refrigerators, which can also be quite noisy.
The main difference between the coasters found in stores is the material from which they are made.
- Rubber The products are inexpensive, durable and wear-resistant. They cope well with the tasks assigned to them: they eliminate slipping due to good adhesion to any surface and dampen vibrations due to the elasticity of the material. In addition to standard foam rubber caps, they also produce stands in the form of flat pads with rounded corners.
Rubber supports for washing machines
- Silicone stands with similar characteristics are more expensive than rubber ones. Their choice is very diverse both in color (only silicone caps are transparent) and in shape.
Silicone coasters
What else is worth paying attention to? To the manufacturer. However, this applies to any goods. Many manufacturers of washing machines are also concerned with the production of stands for them. They will be the best choice, as they are guaranteed to fit both in size and design. And no one will spoil their reputation by producing low-quality accessories.
Price. It may also differ by a couple of hundred rubles. The money is small compared to the cost of the equipment itself, so it’s better not to save. Because cheap products tend to dry out quickly and crack under load.
Stands cannot be exchanged or returned
By the way, you need to choose stands designed for 100 kilograms or more.
Advice. Before purchasing, try bending the products to ensure their elasticity.
Video - Anti-vibration pads
Like any other related products and accessories, you can buy anti-vibration stands for your washing machine at a hardware store. Or in the plumbing department of any large hypermarket.
Make sure the stand is flexible
Installation
Before installing the caps on the legs of the washing machine, you must first level it according to the instructions described above. After this, the equipment must be slightly tilted, first forward to lift and “shod” the rear legs, and then back to install the front stands.
For this you will need an assistant. But if you pull out the machine before installing the shock absorbers, it will be difficult to push it into place, especially if the base is not smooth enough. Since they will already begin to fulfill their purpose and will prevent slipping.
A stand is placed under the leg of the raised machine
Operating principle of stands
The operating principle is very simple. Since plastic and rubber have increased elastic forces and relatively low density, the steel legs of the washing machine literally bite into the material, thereby extinguishing energy.
The opposite situation. When the washing machine is on a dense surface, the energy that comes from the rotation of the drum is transferred to the legs, which are repelled from the floor covering. This creates the effect of a jumping washing machine.
You can also find out on the website how to choose a washer and dryer.
How to choose stands
However, if you use a washing machine pad that is under warranty, problems may arise. Therefore, you should clarify whether this will affect the possibility of warranty service.
It is worth noting that the anti-vibration feet can be chosen in shapes, colors and materials that suit your taste; these parameters do not affect operation.
Branded models from well-known manufacturers will cost more and at the same time have the same characteristics as cheaper anti-vibration pads for a washing machine.
So what should you choose, mats or stands with special anti-vibration properties? Here you should take into account that when buying rugs, you need to clearly measure the size and distance between the legs.
The machine should rest solely on the rubber pads of the mat, its legs should not hang down.
Stands used for washing machines are more universal. The elasticity of the material allows them to be worn on the legs of most models. And, of course, the price of anti-vibration feet for a washing machine is less than the price of mats.
How to choose an anti-vibration stand
To choose a high-quality anti-vibration stand, you must follow the following algorithm:
- It is necessary to measure the diameter and shape of the legs of the device. This is necessary to ensure that the pads fit as tightly as possible and do not allow vibrations to reach the flooring. Based on the measurements obtained, you can immediately determine the size and shape of the linings.
- For a better installation result, it is necessary to choose the most amorphous material. In this case it will be semi-synthetic rubber. It is she who has all the necessary qualities and is able to provide the most excellent performance indicators.
- It is also necessary to be based on financial capabilities. If your budget allows you to purchase more expensive products, then, of course, it is better to use them. But it’s also not worth saving, since such an investment will fully pay for itself in the future operation of the washing machine.
Based on the results, you can purchase one or another stand that will dampen vibration while the washing machine is operating.
Anti-vibration mats
In addition to stands, rubber anti-vibration mats help dampen vibration and noise from the washing machine.
Anti-vibration mats: prices and where to buy?
Their operating principle is the same: leveling the surface, absorbing vibrational movements, absorbing noise and enhancing adhesion to the surface of the base. In addition to this, due to their size and water resistance, the mats protect the floor covering from minor leaks.
Anti-vibration mat for washing machine
To ensure that the rug does not look far beyond the dimensions of the machine and does not attract attention, it is selected according to the size of your equipment. This is not difficult to do - the range of such products is quite large. But the price also differs from the cost of small stands and can reach up to a thousand rubles and more.
Anti-vibration mat Vibromats
The materials from which both mats and coasters are made are non-toxic, wear-resistant and resistant to low and high temperatures. Therefore, they can be used in any conditions, extending the service life of equipment and making its proximity to people more comfortable and problem-free.
Anti-vibration mat under the washing machine
How to install stands
If you purchase individual stands, there may be some problems with their installation. But if you follow some tips, the installation process will not cause any difficulties.
First you need to place the washing machine on its side in order to gain access to all the legs. After this, you should thoroughly clean the legs from possible traces of rust, and if any irregularities occur, eliminate them.
When the legs are completely ready, you can begin installation. If the stands do not provide a strong connection, then you just need to place them under the legs of the washing machine. In case of necessary fixation, you will need to purchase glue for connecting metal and polymer surfaces. Then you can simply glue the stands and return the machine to its usual position.
Important! The best option when choosing glue is semi-synthetic based glue.
Next you should test the work. If everything is done correctly, the machine will not vibrate during operation, thereby ensuring a better washing process.
If the machine continues to jump, then you should use other pads, or carry out the installation process from the very beginning.
How to install correctly
In order for the equipment to work quietly after installing the substrate, you need to know how to do it correctly. First, you need to make sure that it is level. If the machine wobbles, it must be leveled before installing the anti-vibration feet.
Then, lifting the automatic machine on each side, install rubber feet for the washing machine. Installing mats to stabilize your washing machine will likely require assistance.
You won’t be able to lift that much weight on your own, and the mat simply won’t slide on the floor.
But the crooked floor in the apartment will not allow you to level the equipment, in which case an anti-vibration stand for the washing machine will be the only solution.
How to make linings with your own hands
Like any other item, you can make the lining yourself. At the same time, it is not necessary to have the professional skills of a craftsman, because they can be done even without a special tool.
First you need to decide on the material. In everyday life, it is easiest to find rubber and old plastic, so both options will be considered.
When the material has been found, it is necessary to cut out linings from it that will be slightly larger than the legs of the washing machine. You should also pay special attention to the thickness of the material. It is recommended to use material at least 1 cm thick, since otherwise the vibration will pass through the material into the floor and the machine will jump.
When the workpieces are ready, you need to place them under the legs of the washing machine and adjust their height. If after installing homemade stands the machine still jumps a lot, then it is better to purchase ready-made products. This will save both time and effort.
