Day in and day out, your washing machine tirelessly tackles piles of dirty laundry, ensuring you always have clean clothes readily available. But have you ever considered how you can return the favour? Just like any hardworking appliance, your washing machine needs proper care to keep it running smoothly.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of washing machine maintenance, exploring valuable tips and tricks that will not only extend the lifespan of your machine but also improve its performance.
1. Regular Cleaning Routines
Exterior cleaning
Quick Tip: Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild detergent for streak-free exterior cleaning!
This regular wiping down the outside of your machine can prevent dust from finding its way inside. Pay special attention to the control panel and the top of the machine, where laundry detergent residue often accumulates.
Interior drum cleaning
Over time, soap scum, fabric softener, and hard water deposits can build up on the interior drum. To combat this, once a month, run an empty cycle with hot water and
DIY Cleaner: 1 cup white vinegar + 1 cup baking soda (Sodium bicarbonate) = Natural cleaning power!
Detergent dispenser maintenance
Don’t forget about the often-overlooked detergent dispenser. This little compartment can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew if neglected. Remove it (if possible) and give it a good scrub with warm, soapy water. For non-removable dispensers, use an old toothbrush to get into those nooks and corners.
2. Load Management
Proper loading techniques
- Optimal Load Distribution:
- Top-loader: Spiral around the agitator
- Front-loader: Evenly around the drum
- Top-loader: Spiral around the agitator
Instead of just tossing clothes in willy-nilly, take a moment to arrange them evenly around the agitator or drum. This simple step can prevent unnecessary stress on the machine’s motor and suspension system.
Avoiding overloading
We’ve all been there – trying to cram in “just one more” shirt to avoid doing another load. Overloading your machine can lead to poor cleaning results, increased wear and tear, and potential damage to your clothes.
Rule of Thumb: Fill the drum 3/4 full, leaving room for clothes to move freely during the wash cycle.
Balancing the load
Imagine trying to run with a heavy backpack on one shoulder – that’s what an unbalanced load does to your washing machine.
- Load Balancing Cheat Sheet:
- Mix large and small items
- Distribute weight evenly
- Avoid washing single heavy items alone
This is especially important for high-spin cycles, where an unbalanced load can cause excessive vibration and potentially damage your machine.
3. Water Quality Considerations
Effects of hard water
If you live in an area with hard water, you might notice scale build-up or a chalky residue in your machine.
- Hard Water Scale Build-up Over Time:
- Year 1: Minimal
- Year 3: Noticeable
- Year 5: Significant
- Year 7+: Potential damage
The high mineral content can leave deposits on your machine’s components, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage over time.
Using water softeners
Consider using a water softener if hard water is an issue in your area. These products work by reducing the mineral content in the water, which can help prevent scale build-up and extend the life of your washing machine.
Cleaning water inlet filters
Your washing machine has small filters in the water inlet valves that prevent debris from entering the machine. Over time, these can become clogged, especially in areas with hard water. Locate these filters and clean them periodically to ensure optimal water flow.
- Inlet Filter Cleaning Schedule:
- Soft water areas: Every 6 months
- Hard water areas: Every 3 months
- Very hard water areas: Monthly
4. Hose and Seal Inspection
Checking inlet hoses
Washing machine hoses are vital components that can degrade over time, potentially leading to leaks or even flooding. Make it a habit to inspect your inlet hoses every few months.
- Hose Health Checklist:
- Signs of cracks or bulges
- Fittings are tight
- No signs of leaks
- Replace every 3-5 years, even if they are in good condition.
Examining drain hoses
Don’t forget about the drain hose! This workhorse carries all the dirty water away from your machine. A compromised drain hose can lead to water backing up into your machine or spilling onto your floor.
- Drain Hose Maintenance Tips:
- Keep it kink-free
- Secure properly (no sagging)
- Clean regularly to prevent clogs
- Replace if showing signs of wear
Door seal maintenance
For front-loading machines, the door seal (or gasket) is crucial in preventing leaks. This rubber seal can collect water, detergent residue, and even mould if not properly maintained.
- Door Seal Cleaning Routine:
- After each use: Wipe the seal with a dry cloth
- Weekly: Clean with a mixture of vinegar solution
- Monthly: Deep clean and inspect
5. Lint Filter Care
Importance of clean lint filters
Think of your lint filter as your washing machine’s first line of defence against clogs and drainage issues. A clean filter ensures proper water flow and prevents lint from recirculating onto your clothes. Plus, it helps your machine run more efficiently, potentially saving you money on energy bills.
- Impact of Clogged Lint Filters:
- 30% decrease in drying efficiency
- 25% increase in energy consumption
- Higher risk of fire hazards
Cleaning frequency
How often should you clean your lint filter? Well, it depends on how frequently you use your machine, but a good rule of thumb is to check and clean it after every 1-2 loads.
- Lint Filter Cleaning Schedule:
- Light loads: Every 2-3 loads
- Heavy loads: After every load
- Towels or lint-heavy items: Check mid-cycle
Proper cleaning techniques
Cleaning your lint filter is usually a breeze. Most top-loading machines have a removable filter that you can simply rinse under running water. For front-loaders, the filter is often located behind a small door near the bottom of the machine.
- Lint Filter Cleaning Steps:
- Remove visible lint by hand
- Rinse under running water
- Allow to dry completely before reinserting
6. Regular Inspections
What to look for
Proactive inspections can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. Look for signs of wear on hoses and seals, check for any unusual noises during operation, and keep an eye out for leaks or water pooling around your machine.
Frequency of inspections
Make it a habit to do a quick visual inspection every month. A more thorough check, including hose inspections and levelling checks, should be done every 3-6 months.
When to call a professional
While many maintenance tasks can be DIY, some issues require professional attention. If you notice persistent leaks or unusual noises, or if your machine isn’t cleaning effectively despite your best efforts, it might be time to call in the experts.
- Washing Machine Maintenance Checklist:
- Daily: Wipe the door seal, leave the door open
- Weekly: Clean detergent dispenser
- Monthly: Run the cleaning cycle
- Quarterly: Check hoses, clean inlet filters
- Annually: Professional inspection
Aotea Electric Ashburton: Your Trusted Electrical & Appliance Experts
Aotea Electric Ashburton is your trusted electrician in Ashburton. We are committed to providing electrical services and keeping your appliances in top condition.
Our experienced technicians not only specialise in washing machine maintenance and repair but also offer electrical solutions for homes and businesses, delivering safe, reliable, and professional installations and repairs. With our expert care, we help extend the life of your appliances and keep them running efficiently.
If you need professional assistance, we’re here to help. Contact us today to book an appointment.