Washing machines are heavy no matter what brand you choose.
But do you know why your washer is so heavy?
Well, that’s because your washer has concrete blocks installed in it.
Washing Machines do have one or more concrete blocks installed in them depending on their size and type. These concrete blocks are actually made up of cement and their main purpose is to balance the electric motor and gearbox that are attached to the inner tub.
In short, a concrete block stabilizes the washing machine while running through the wash cycles.
The quantity and the volume of these concrete blocks depend on the washer’s capacity.
Typically, concrete blocks inside the washer can weigh up to 25 kg or even more and the actual weight of the washer without the concrete block may weigh less than half of what the block weighs.
Why is there a concrete block in the washing machine?
The concrete blocks are placed inside the washer in order to prevent them from shuffling or moving especially during the spin cycle.
During the spin cycle, the heavy motor drives the gearbox attached to the inner washtub at a very high spin speed.
Without the heavy concrete block, the washer may move and become unstable.
Where is concrete in the washing machine?
The concrete blocks are usually placed at the base of the washer in order to provide stability and balance during the wash cycles.
The weight of these blocks holds the surface and maintains the balance while the washer functions.
Depending on the washer type, front loaders may have 2 blocks installed, one above the washtub and another at the base.
Can you remove the concrete block from a washing machine?
Yes, these concrete counterweights can be removed and may require some physical effort, as you may have to uncover most of the parts installed above and around these blocks.
These concrete blocks can be removed or replaced in the event of any damage or wear-outs and in order to remove or replace these counterweights, you will need expert assistance.
What happens if you remove the concrete from the washing machine?
Your washing machine will become lighter if you remove the concrete weight.
This means during the high RPM wash cycle, the washer will vibrate and leave its position.
Removing concrete blocks destabilizes the washer.
Final Thoughts
The concrete blocks are meant to balance the washer during the high-speed spin and it’s not recommended to remove them as it will not only void the warranty but also destabilize the washer.
We don’t see any reason why you may want to remove the concrete block unless it has broken into pieces and makes an intolerable sound during wash cycles.
It’s best not to touch the concrete blocks inside the washer.
Lastly, we think instead of placing a concrete block, the machines could have been designed with a heavy or thick body.
Manufacturing washers with heavy or thick bodies will not only help to stabilize the washer but also provide that extra space occupied by the concrete block, but again it’s just a thought 🙂
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