My stacked washer and dryer are shifting; what should I ask an installer to inspect?

First, if the stack seems unstable, stop using it while you arrange an inspection. The supplied Bosch manual guidance says instability warrants stopping use pending inspection; it does not give a universal remedy for a shifting stack. [S1]

When you contact an installer, describe what you observe without trying to reposition or dismantle the appliances. Ask for an inspection of the complete setup, not just the visible stacking bracket.

Write down the make and full model number of both appliances, including any letters or suffixes. If you cannot find a number safely, ask the installer how to locate it; do not move an unstable stack to reach a label.

Also note when the movement happens, whether it is on particular cycles, and what you can see from a safe distance: for example, whether the dryer shifts relative to the washer or the whole stack moves. These are observations, not a diagnosis. Mention whether you have manuals or installation paperwork, and ask the installer to check the model-specific instructions.

Ask them to identify the stacking kit and verify that it is approved for both exact appliance models before deciding what adjustment, if any, is appropriate. A manufacturer’s product page advises checking compatibility using the appliance model, and the supplied manual guidance says the required kit and compatible washer are model-specific. [S1] [S2]

For example, you could say: “The washer model is [washer model] and the dryer model is [dryer model]. Please confirm the installed stacking kit is specified for this exact pair, and check the installation against both manuals. I’m not asking you to assume another kit will fit.” Do not treat a kit that looks similar as proof of compatibility.

Yes—ask the installer to check that the appliances are level and properly supported, and to assess the installation details against the manuals. Make clear that you want them to inspect and explain the findings, rather than treating leveling as a confirmed cause or doing adjustments yourself.

The supplied Bosch manual extract specifically says the washer’s transport bolts must be removed and that it should not vibrate excessively. Ask the installer to verify whether the transport bolts were removed, if that requirement applies to your model, and whether the washer’s vibration is excessive. [S1] The extracts do not establish that bolts, leveling, or the stacking kit caused your particular movement, or prescribe a universal repair.

You can copy and fill in this request:

“Please inspect my shifting stacked washer and dryer before I use them again. Washer: [make and model]. Dryer: [make and model]. The movement occurs [when/under what observed conditions]. Please verify whether the stacking kit is approved for these exact models; check the installation and leveling against the appliance manuals; confirm any model-specific requirements, including transport-bolt removal where applicable; and tell me whether the stack is stable enough to use after your inspection. Please explain any recommended next step before making changes.”

The last question asks for the installer’s assessment; it does not assume that a particular repair will solve the problem. The supplied sources address Bosch-specific compatibility guidance and do not establish requirements for every brand or model. [S1] [S2]