You might already know how to maintain your washing machine to some extent. You make sure the appliance is level, you don’t overload it, etc. Today we will be talking about the washing machine maintenance tips that a lot of homeowners don’t know about.
Here are our top guidelines:
Use the recommended type and amount of detergent.
Inspect the washer’s hoses monthly and replace them every three to five years.
See if you need a drain vent.
Make sure the door gasket stays dry between loads.
Leave the door open for air circulation when the machine is off.
Clean your washing machine often to limit mold spores.
Clean the lint filter.
Learn more about these steps below—but remember that your washing machine is manmade, no matter how well you maintain it. If you need any appliance repair, Factory appliance Houston is available to help. Just contact our nearest team of appliance experts, or schedule an appointment online.
How to Maintain Your Washing Machine with Confidence
When it comes to maintenance of washing machines, knowing what to do is not really the important thing, but knowing how to do it properly will prevent unexpected repairs or premature appliance replacement.
1. Use the recommended detergent.
Check the manufacturer’s recommended type of laundry detergent, amount of detergent, and instructions for use. For instance, powdered detergent or high-efficiency (HE) liquid detergent should be used with some water-saving washing machine models to minimize residue formation.
2. Keep an eye on the washer’s hoses.
Your washing machine has a hot-water hose, a cold-water hose, and a drain hose. Check these hoses monthly for cracks or brittleness. The best time is right after running the washing machine, as you’ll be able to see if anything is leaking. When you notice there is a leakage somewhere, don’t hesitate to schedule professional washing machine repair without delay.
3. See if you need a drain vent.
A drain vent is installed on a washer’s drain hose to prevent pressure that hinders drainage. Some local building codes require this vent. Look at your washer’s drain hose to see if there’s a space around it where it enters your drain. If there’s a little clearance or space, you probably don’t need a drain vent unless local building codes require it. If the hose fits tightly, get a drain vent if you don’t already have one. Otherwise, you might end up needing a water damage restoration service…
4. Make sure the door gasket stays dry.
The gasket, or rubber seal, around your washer door, is susceptible to mold and deterioration. Wipe it off after you do a load of laundry, as keeping the gasket dry will protect it from premature wear.
5. Open the door for air circulation.
The washing machine can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you keep the door open when the machine isn’t in use, you lower the multiplying spores’ risk.
Professional Washing Machine Maintenance and Repairs
Even if you practice these washing machine maintenance tips as mentioned above, your appliance could still malfunction. When this happens, you can count on your local Factory Appliance Houston to quickly identify and fix the issue. To arrange an appointment, give your local team a call or schedule it online.