Routine maintenance is one of the best things you can do for your washing machine. Your clothes will come out fresh and clean, and you’ll prevent costly breakdowns from happening unexpectedly.
However, many people take their washing machines for granted and don’t notice problems until much later. When this happens, the appliance can be costly to fix, and you may be without a place to wash your clothes for weeks!
Fortunately, washing machine preventive care is easier than you think. By following a few simple maintenance steps, you can keep your washing machine in tip-top shape! Below are the steps we recommend following for all types of machines.
Clean Your Washing Machine
You might assume that your washing machine doesn’t need to be cleaned because it constantly has soap and water running through it. Unfortunately, washing machines don’t clean themselves naturally during wash cycles. Without regular cleanings, your machine can develop bacteria, bad odors and residues that make your clothes smell musty.
There are washing machine cleaners you can buy, but to be honest, you don’t need them. You are simply paying for convenience. Instead, you can create your own DIY cleaning solution using bleach, vinegar and/or baking soda. This post teaches you how to make your own washing machine cleaner.
Check and Replace Water Hoses
This is a fairly easy job, though you will have to pull your washing machine out, as the hoses are in the back of the machine. At least once a year, check the hoses for bulging, cracking, fraying or other signs of damage. Replace the hose if you notice any problems.
If your washing machine is older than five years, it’s a good idea to replace the hoses regardless of their condition. Otherwise, a simple leak can cause flooding in your home. Also, make sure that your machine is pulled about four inches away from the wall so that the hoses don’t kink.
Follow All Directions
Most people don’t think twice about their washing machine – they toss in the clothes, pour some detergent in and press Start. But there are certain things you should be doing to protect your machine. For example, don’t overload your washer and always measure the detergent.
Using too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes and cause wear and tear on your machine. Plus, high efficiency washers require special detergents. Furthermore, when you are done washing laundry, leave the washer lid or door open. This helps the machine dry out and keeps it smelling fresh.
These are some of the best steps you can take for washing machine preventive care. If you need help in between, contact Pacific Appliance Repair Service for an appointment. Our experienced techs can address the problem you’re having and provide you with a fast and cost-efficient solution.