### Step 1: Check the Installation Basics (The Most Common Culprits)
The vast majority of vibration issues stem from improper installation. Two key steps are often missed.
**Remove the Shipping Bolts**
If your machine is new, it's crucial to remove the shipping bolts from the back. These bolts are fitted to secure the drum during transport to prevent damage . Using the supplied spanner, loosen and pull out all bolts (usually 3 to 5, depending on the model). Fill the holes with the plastic caps provided and save the bolts for any future moves . You can confirm they're all out by opening the door and moving the drum; it should move freely .
**Level the Machine on a Solid Floor**
An uneven surface is another primary cause of vibration. Your Samsung washer needs to be on a solid, level floor—avoid soft surfaces like carpet .
To fix this:
1. **Check the feet:** Ensure all four levelling feet are in firm contact with the floor .
2. **Adjust the feet:** Using your hand or a spanner, turn the feet to raise or lower the machine until it is perfectly stable. Gently rock the machine from corner to corner to check if it's level . Some models have a locking nut that must be tightened with a screwdriver or spanner to secure the setting .
### Step 2: Correcting the Laundry Load (The Operational Cause)
If the installation is sound, the problem is often the load itself. Samsung machines are sensitive to imbalances.
**Balance the Load**
Washing one heavy, water-absorbent item, like a single bathmat or a large comforter, can cause the drum to become unbalanced during the spin cycle, leading to a "thumping" sound as the machine tries to compensate . The solution is to mix heavy and light items to distribute the weight evenly around the drum . Ensure clothes are not clumped together .
**Avoid Overloading (and Underloading)**
Both overloading and underloading can be problematic . Check your machine's maximum capacity (often listed on the control panel) and avoid exceeding it . If you're washing bulky items like bedding, it's generally recommended to keep the load around 2.0-3.0 kg for optimal performance . A general rule is to leave a hand’s width of space between the laundry and the top of the drum .
### Step 3: Advanced Solutions and Maintenance
If you’ve checked the basics and the load, the issue might be resolved with a calibration or further inspection.
**Run a Calibration Mode**
This is a crucial step many users don't know about. Calibration helps the machine's sensors accurately "weigh" the load, which is essential for a balanced spin cycle .
1. Ensure the drum is completely empty.
2. For many models, press and hold the **Temp** and **Delay End** buttons for about 3 seconds until a "CB" code appears .
3. Press the **Start/Pause** button to begin the cycle. The drum will rotate for a few minutes and then finish automatically .
**Check for Obstructions and Proper Clearance**
- **Foreign Objects:** Ensure no packaging (like polystyrene) or small items (like coins) are trapped under or in the drum .
- **Clearance:** Your machine should have at least 5-10 cm of clearance from adjacent walls or cabinets to prevent it from knocking against them .
### When to Seek Professional Help
If you have worked through all these steps—removed shipping bolts, leveled the machine, balanced the load, and calibrated it—and the shaking persists, the problem may be more serious. This could indicate a mechanical fault such as a damaged drum bearing, a broken suspension spring, or an issue with the motor . In this case, it’s best to contact Samsung Support for professional diagnosis and repair to prevent further damage .