We get it; it's a huge inconvenience when your laundry appliances break down. Unfortunately, most appliances will get to this point someday, but that doesn't mean it has to happen soon! In fact, with the proper maintenance tips, you can keep your washer and dryer going strong for longer!
And since National Laundry Day is in two days (Apr. 15th), it's the perfect opportunity to learn which steps to add to your laundry appliance care routine!
Essential Care Steps
- Washer Drum Maintenance
- Mold & Mildew Prevention
- Water Inlet Filters Cleaning
- Hose Checkup
- Vent Inspections
- Proper Load Size
- Detergent Matters
- Tune in to Sounds
- When to Call in Reinforcements
1. Sparkle Up Your Washer Drum
A monthly deep clean of your washer drum isn't just about sparkle; it's about performance. Detergent residue and buildup can hamper your machine's efficiency. To combat this, run an empty hot wash cycle with a combination of vinegar and baking soda or use a commercial cleaner.
This simple maintenance step ensures your washer operates smoothly and your clothes come out looking and smelling their best, extending the life of your appliance!
2. Bye, Bye, Mold & Mildew
Mold and mildew aren't just a nuisance; they're a threat to the lifespan and efficiency of your laundry appliances. In washers, these damp-loving intruders can clog hoses and damage seals, compromising the machine's integrity over time. To protect your investment, make sure to:
- Air out the washer after every wash — just leave the lid or door open.
- Quickly wipe down the gasket and drum with a dry cloth to remove excess dampness.
- Regularly clean the dryer and keep the laundry room well-ventilated!
3. The Filter Fix
Your washer's water inlet filters ensure only clean water reaches your clothes. Over time, these filters can become clogged with sediment and debris, leading to reduced water flow and a less effective wash cycle. So, to keep your washer running smoothly, it’s important to follow these steps:
- Locate the Filters: Check your washer's manual to find where the filters are.
- Remove and Rinse: Gently remove the filters and rinse under running water to remove sediment and debris.
- Use a Soft Brush: For stubborn deposits, a soft brush can help clean them away.
- Reinstall Carefully: Once clean, put the filters back according to the manual's instructions.
4. Check Your Lifelines
For any appliance that uses water or vent hoses, checking these lifelines is critical for a smooth operation.
- Regular Inspections: Inspect your washer hoses and dryer vents every few months for signs of wear, such as cracks, leaks (washer), lint build-up, or brittleness.
- Check for Weakness: Hoses should feel firm and flexible. For dryer vents, ensure there's no excessive lint accumulation that could pose a fire hazard.
- Replacement Timeline: Washer hoses typically need replacing every 3 to 5 years. For dryers, regularly clean the vents and inspect the exterior vent hood for damage or blockage; replace if necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.
5. Clear the Fluff
Did you know that the leading cause of dryer breakdowns is lint buildup? Sometimes, it’s easy to forget to clean the lint filter after every load, but eventually, those bits can accumulate and cause damage to your dryer — or worse! So, it’s crucial to clean the filter after every load and to get your ventilation inspected and cleaned once a year.
You’d be surprised how much buildup there can be in just a year!
6. Overstuffed!
Overloading your laundry appliances can be tempting, especially on busy days, but it's a practice that can cost you in the long run! Packing too many clothes into a washer or dryer puts excessive strain on the motor, drum bearings, and other components, which can lead to complete breakdowns.
Not to mention, overloaded machines can’t clean or dry clothes as effectively, so you might run extra cycles, further straining your machines (and your utility bill!).
Pro Tip:
Always follow the manufacturer guidelines for load sizes (in the manual) to preserve the appliance's life.
7. Detergent Dos and Don’ts
Choosing and using the right detergent in the correct amount isn't just about cleaning your clothes; it's also crucial for maintaining your washer's health.
- Overusing detergent creates excess suds, which makes it harder to rinse the clothes and leads to residue buildup in the machine.
- Using the wrong type of detergent can also negatively impact your machine, damaging internal components (especially for high-efficiency machines).
Pro Tip:
Check the appliance’s manual to see the recommended detergent use for each load.
Bonus: Tuning In
Your laundry appliances are pretty good at communicating when something's not quite right — you can usually hear it! It’s imperative to pay attention to the sounds they make and act swiftly.
- Bumps and Bangs: These could indicate an unbalanced load, but if the noise continues after adjusting the load, there might be deeper mechanical issues.
- Squeals or Whines: Such sounds can signal bearings or belts under distress, often pointing to wear that needs immediate attention.
- Gurgling or Humming: While some noise is normal during water drainage or filling, persistent or loud sounds might highlight a pump or hose problem.
The Reinforcements
While many maintenance tasks for your laundry appliances can be DIY, there are clear signs when it's time to call in professionals like our service team at Dick Van Dyke Appliance World ! For instance, if you hear persistent noises even after troubleshooting, experience error messages, or notice a significant decline in performance, it’s best to contact pros like our team!
And even if your laundry appliances are working great, it’s important to get routine checkups with professional inspections to catch issues early and prevent appliance breakdowns!