Who are these checks useful for?

People bothered by spin-cycle noise

You want to compare the stated noise levels of several washing machines, while bearing in mind that how securely the machine is installed also affects the vibrations you feel in your flat.

Tenants considering changes to the installation

You need to distinguish between adjusting the appliance and carrying out work on your home. In France, Service Public explains that the building’s co-ownership rules also apply to tenants, and that some work requires the landlord’s consent.

Households dealing with occasional vibrations

If the appliance moves mainly with certain loads, first check how the laundry is distributed and whether the machine is level. UFC-Que Choisir, Miele France and Electrolux France list these as possible causes of vibrations during the spin cycle.

What should you check before choosing?

Keep the appliance and make it stable

Worth considering: if the vibrations vary depending on the load or started after the machine was moved, check its installation and the laundry before replacing it.

Limitation: these adjustments may not resolve persistent abnormal noise, which could require the appliance to be inspected.

Replace the washing machine

Worth considering: if you still need to replace it after carrying out the checks, compare the spin-cycle data for the exact model under the EU energy labelling framework.

Limitation: the stated airborne noise level does not measure the vibrations that your floors or walls may transmit.

Concern What to check before buying Consumers concerned
Cause of the vibrations Check how the laundry is distributed, that the appliance is level, that all four feet are in contact with the floor and that nothing can knock against it, following the instructions. If my appliance knocks mainly with certain loads, I want to rule out an unbalanced load or poor footing before replacing it. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise this diagnosis.
Spin-cycle noise For the same spin-cycle phase, compare the airborne noise emissions in dB(A) and the noise class on the energy label or in EPREL. If I replace my washing machine, I want to compare its spin-cycle noise on a like-for-like basis, without treating it as a measure of floor vibrations. This would be the top priority for around 33% of consumers.
Installation compatibility Measure the space and check the installation type, the required clearances, the floor’s stability and the rules that apply if you plan to make changes to your home. In a fitted kitchen or rented home, I want to install the appliance correctly without making unsuitable alterations. Installation compatibility would be the priority for around 25% of consumers.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Replacing the appliance before checking that it is stable

    An unbalanced load or a poorly installed appliance can cause vibrations during the spin cycle. A new washing machine will not fix an unsuitable installation.

    Check that the appliance is level, all four feet are firmly in contact with the floor and the laundry is evenly distributed, following the instructions. Then reassess the problem.

  • Comparing only claims about quiet operation

    A feature promoted by a brand is no substitute for the spin-cycle noise data for the exact model.

    Check the dB(A) emissions and noise class on the energy label or in EPREL, then compare the same phase of operation.

  • Relying on a built-in model or an accessory to eliminate vibrations

    A built-in model must first be suitable for the unit and its installation requirements. A support does not replace levelling the appliance or investigating abnormal noise.

    Check the model’s dimensions and instructions, examine the floor, and review your tenancy agreement or the building’s co-ownership rules before making any relevant changes.

Brands to consider by model

Bosch

Some Bosch front-loading washing machines feature AntiVibration side walls and an EcoSilenceDrive motor. Check whether these are included on the model you are considering.

  • Bosch says its AntiVibration design helps to reduce noise, particularly during the spin cycle.
  • This does not guarantee that vibrations will not be transmitted through your home. Also compare the noise data and installation instructions for the exact model.

Miele

Miele product specifications can help you check the sound emissions of a specific model: the W1 WCB100 WCS is listed at 72 dB(A) during the spin cycle.

  • A figure stated for a specific model can be compared with the same data on other product specifications.
  • The figure for the W1 WCB100 WCS does not apply to other Miele models. Check the specifications and availability of the model you are interested in.

Electrolux

Electrolux offers built-in washing machines, including the EW7F1484BI, which has a capacity of 8 kg and a spin speed of 1,400 rpm.

  • The model’s specifications give you a starting point for checking whether it is suitable for a built-in installation.
  • A built-in design alone does not prove that it will reduce noise or vibration. Check the dimensions, noise data and installation instructions.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Which figures should I compare between two washing machines sold in France?

Compare the airborne acoustic noise emissions during the spin cycle, expressed in dB(A), and the noise class under the EU energy labelling framework. Make sure you are comparing the same phase and the exact models. These details do not replace checking the dimensions and installation requirements.

Should I replace a washing machine that vibrates during the spin cycle?

Not before checking the common causes of vibration. In particular, check how the laundry is distributed, whether the appliance is level, its feet and anything that could knock against it. If abnormal noise persists, have the appliance inspected before deciding whether to replace it.

Can I add a support or move my washing machine in a rented home?

Only consider changing the installation after checking what it would involve for your home and the appliance installation. In France, Service Public explains that the building’s co-ownership rules also apply to tenants, and that some work requires the landlord’s consent. Check your tenancy agreement, the building rules and the appliance instructions before making any relevant changes.

Will a low dB(A) figure prevent any disturbance to the neighbours?

No. The published spin-cycle figure describes airborne noise according to the stated metric; it does not cover every vibration transmitted through the installation. You still need to check that the appliance is level, the load is balanced and the floor is stable, even if you choose a model with a lower noise rating on this measure.