Can You Lay a Washing Machine on Its Side? Expert Advice
Moving a washing machine can be a tricky task, especially when space is tight or you’re figuring out the best way to transport it. You might wonder if it’s safe to lay your washing machine on its side during the move. The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no—it depends on the type of machine and how you handle it.
Knowing the right way to position your washing machine can save you from costly repairs and ensure it works smoothly once it’s back in place. Before you decide to lay it down, it’s important to understand the risks involved and how to protect your appliance. Let’s explore what you need to know to keep your washing machine safe during transport.
Understanding Washing Machine Orientation
Washing machines require specific orientation for safe operation and transport. Understanding their design and the role of positioning helps prevent damage.
How Washing Machines Are Designed to Operate
Washing machines operate upright with internal components aligned vertically. The drum, suspension system, motor, and gearbox depend on this position for balance and function. Front-loaders and top-loaders have different internal structures but both rely on gravity to maintain stability. Moving the machine off its intended axis risks dislodging parts like shock absorbers, hoses, or the drum. Manufacturers engineer machines to absorb vibrations and water flow efficiently only when upright.
Importance of Proper Positioning During Transport
Proper positioning during transport preserves the machine’s integrity. Keeping the washing machine upright prevents oil from the motor and transmission from leaking, eliminates undue pressure on suspension components, and avoids shifting of delicate parts. Laying the machine on its side exposes seals and hoses to stress, increasing the chance of leaks or mechanical failures. If transport requires laying the machine down, securing the drum and waiting several hours before use reduces damage risk, but upright transport remains the safest method.
Risks of Laying a Washing Machine on Its Side
Laying a washing machine on its side poses significant risks that can compromise its functionality and longevity. Understanding these risks helps you avoid costly repairs and operational issues.
Potential Damage to Internal Components
Laying the machine on its side can cause oil from the motor and transmission to leak into parts where it doesn’t belong, leading to mechanical failures. Electrical components and wiring may shift or disconnect, resulting in shorts or malfunctions. The water pump, hoses, and seals face increased stress, which can cause leaks or breaks. Damage to these internal parts often goes unnoticed during transport but emerges during use.
Impact on Drum and Suspension System
The drum and suspension system depend on vertical alignment to maintain balance and stability. When laid sideways, the drum can move excessively, damaging the suspension rods, springs, or shock absorbers. This misalignment leads to noisy operation, excessive vibration, and uneven spinning cycles. Damage to suspension components reduces the machine’s ability to absorb shocks and maintain smooth performance, accelerating wear and tear.
Manufacturer Guidelines and Recommendations
Most washing machine manufacturers provide specific instructions on how to handle and transport their appliances. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines helps avoid damage and maintains your warranty coverage.
Typical Instructions from Leading Brands
Leading brands like Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, and Bosch emphasize transporting washing machines in an upright position. They recommend securing the drum using transit bolts or shipping locks designed for this purpose. If your model permits laying on its side, the documentation usually specifies the side and outlines precautions. For example, Whirlpool advises upright positioning unless transporting a compact model designed for sideways movement. LG’s manuals caution against laying machines on their side to prevent oil leaks in the transmission. Samsung suggests waiting at least 24 hours after transport before operating the machine if it was laid down. Always consult the user manual or manufacturer website for model-specific instructions.
Warranty Implications of Incorrect Handling
Failing to follow manufacturer guidelines can void the warranty. Most warranties exclude damage caused by improper transport, including tilting or laying the machine on its side. Oil leaks, broken suspension components, or electrical failures linked to incorrect handling typically fall outside coverage. Manufacturers require proof of correct transportation methods when processing claims. Keeping the washing machine upright and using transit bolts during moves ensures compliance with warranty terms. If you’ve laid the machine sideways during transport, you risk losing warranty support for any resulting faults. Adhering strictly to manufacturer recommendations protects your investment and ensures reliable operation after moving.
Safe Ways to Transport a Washing Machine
Transporting a washing machine requires careful preparation and proper positioning to avoid damage. Following these steps preserves your appliance’s integrity and ensures safe handling.
Preparing the Appliance for Moving
Disconnect water supply hoses and electrical cords before moving. Drain all water from the machine to prevent leaks. Secure the drum using transit bolts or shipping locks recommended by the manufacturer. Remove detergent trays and any removable parts to avoid damage. Wrap the washing machine in protective padding or blankets to prevent scratches and dents during transport. Use a sturdy dolly or hand truck to move the appliance upright, distributing weight evenly to reduce strain.
Alternative Positions to Laying on Its Side
Keep the washing machine upright whenever possible, as this maintains internal component alignment. If laying the machine sideways is unavoidable, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for permissible orientations. Some models permit laying on specific sides with precautions such as securing the drum and delaying use for several hours after repositioning. Avoid resting the machine on the back or front panel, which risks dislodging internal parts or causing leaks. Transporting the machine on its base or tilted slightly back prevents excessive stress on the suspension system and motor. Always allow the machine to settle upright for a minimum of 4 to 24 hours before use to let internal fluids redistribute.
What to Do After Transporting a Washing Machine on Its Side
Taking specific actions after transporting the washing machine on its side ensures its proper function and longevity. Follow these steps carefully before using the machine again.
Steps to Take Before Using the Machine Again
Inspect the washing machine for any visible leaks, damages, or loose parts immediately after setting it upright. Remove any transit bolts or shipping locks installed to secure the drum during transport. Wait at least 4 to 24 hours before plugging it in and running a cycle, as this time allows oils and fluids inside the motor and transmission to settle back into their proper places. Reconnect water hoses securely, check for leaks, and ensure the machine is properly leveled to avoid vibrations during operation.
Tips to Avoid Malfunctions
Handle the machine gently when moving it upright; avoid jolts or sudden movements that may dislodge components further. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines specific to your washing machine model regarding post-transport care. Run an empty wash cycle without detergent initially to test the machine’s function and confirm no internal issues exist. Keep the area around the machine clear to ensure good ventilation and prevent overheating. Following these practices reduces the risk of leaks, mechanical failures, or warranty voidance after transporting your washing machine on its side.
Conclusion
Transporting your washing machine requires careful attention to how you position it. Keeping it upright is always the safest choice to avoid damage and costly repairs. If you must lay it on its side, make sure to follow your manufacturer’s guidelines closely and give the machine time to settle before using it. Taking these precautions protects your investment and ensures your washing machine continues to run smoothly after the move.