How many times a week do you use your washing machine? A washing machine is essential for ensuring our clothes are clean and ready to wear when we need them. Washing machines make our lives easier by ensuring that cleaning is virtually effortless. However, many people don’t give their washing machines a second thought beyond the time they are using them. However, these appliances require regular maintenance in order to continue functioning at optimum for longer. Below we share our best tips for washing machine maintenance that you can start right away.
Check the Washing Machine Hoses
There are many times that leakage from washing machines is a result of a leaky hose. This flexible rubber tube may lose flexibility over time due to the wear and tear of constant use. When this happens, it may form cracks, blisters or kinks. These can result in leaks if left unchecked. Check your hose for signs of wear and tear. A good rule of thumb is to have the hose replaced every 5 years or so.
Clean Washing Machine’s Lint Filter Regularly
Not many washing machine owners are aware that the lint filter in their washer requires cleaning regularly. Just as the lint filter in your dryer, the washing machine lint filter can become clogged with lint and general debris. This can come back into the wash mid-cycle and soil your clothes. It can also be the breeding ground for bacteria, mold and mildew. Be sure to clean your lint filter at least four times a year.
Leave the Washing Machine’s Door Open After Use
While your clothes may come out of the washer almost dry, the inside of the washing machine doesn’t become dry immediately after a wash. It is important to let the washer dry properly to avoid mold and mildew growth. One of the easiest washer machine tips you can begin today is to simply leave the door of your washer open for about 30 minutes after completing a wash. This will allow water to circulate within the machine and allow it to dry completely.
Stick to the Recommended Laundry Detergent
The detergent you use has a big impact on the washer maintenance. Detergents that have high alkalinity can cause damage not just to the clothes but also the washing machine. This is the case particularly with high efficiency models. Check your washer manual to see what kinds of laundry detergent the manufacturer recommends and stick to these detergents to avoid damaging your machine.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Is your washer showing signs of trouble when draining? The culprit is most likely the drain pump filter. When the drain pump filter becomes clogged with debris, the washer will not drain properly between cycles. Be sure to clean your drain pipe filter regularly.
Check to Ensure The Washer is Level
The last of our washing machine tips is to check to ensure that your washing machine is level. If the appliance is on an uneven surface, it will rock and vibrate during operation. While you may be able to put up with the loud sound, you should note that parts in your machine may be damaged when the machine has to compensate for not being level. Check to ensure that the washer is level and that its feet are planted firmly on the floor.
We can Help You – Fixing the Problem Once and For All
Are you experiencing problems with your washer? Get in touch with us, MountainVue Appliance Repair for washing machine information. We provide services for fast and efficient washing machine repair in Issaquah. Schedule your appointment and we’ll have an experienced technician sent to your location as soon as possible. You can rely on us to provide you with an efficient and long term solution.
