Hello World! Welcome Friends! If you’ve ever dealt with a broken washer machine before, then you probably have an idea of how nightmare-inducing it can be. It’s like right when it breaks; that’s when you have the most laundry to wash, right? Then that laundry just keeps piling up more and more, and it feels endless. Then it gets to the point where you’re probably having to either wear dirty laundry or you’re having to hand-wash everything until your new washer machine comes in.
Buying a new washer machine can be incredibly expensive, and on top of that, it can take a lot of work getting one into your house, whether you’re moving it yourself or you have to pay movers and installers from the company you bought it from. In general, there’s just a lot of hassle with buying one, waiting for it to come in, and then installing it—and all you want to do is keep your laundry clean and fresh!
Like all things, even washer machines will break. It’s just inevitable. Besides, they really don’t make them like they used to. But with that said, how can you keep your current washer machine going and humming for years to come? How can you (for now) avoid any issues? Well, here’s exactly what you need to know!
Why You Should Do What You Can to Extend the Life of Your Washer
If you’ve ever bought a washer machine before, then you probably have an idea of how expensive and how much of a hassle it can be to get that machine in your home, right?
You’re far better off doing what you can to preserve the life of the one you currently have; this might mean knowing what Maytag washer parts, learning how to repair a washer (or hiring someone), but you know what? This is still a lot less stressful and cheaper! Plus, if you think about it, it’s more sustainable too. But it’s a bit more helpful to dive into these reasons.
You Save a Lot of Money
First up, let’s address the obvious: washing machines aren’t cheap. A good one can set you back quite a bit, and let’s not even talk about the hassle and cost of getting it installed. A lot of stores will charge for the installation (and for removing the broken one, too). Who has the money for all of that? So, just by maintaining and caring for your existing machine, you can avoid or delay this hefty expense.
You’re Reducing Waste
A lot of stuff seems like it’s not built to last, and then it goes into a landfill, and that is that. It’s far from being sustainable. So, when you extend the life of your washing machine, you’re also contributing to a crucial environmental cause: reducing waste. Electronic waste is a growing problem, and that’s the sad truth. This waste not only takes up valuable space but can also leach harmful substances into the ground.
So, just by keeping your machine out of that pile for as long as possible, you’re doing your bit to cut down on waste and pollution. Just hire someone to fix yours when it breaks, or learn to do so with free online tutorials. Don’t contribute to this ever-growing problem.
You’re Helping in Conserving Resources
Well, to a degree at least. Companies are still going to manufacture new washers; you can’t stop that. However, by maximizing the lifespan of your existing machine, you help conserve these resources and reduce the overall environmental impact associated with the production and distribution of new appliances.
Supporting Local Business
Again, this goes back to hiring help when it’s broken, or you’re needing to install some parts. Often, keeping your machine running smoothly involves some professional help. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses by hiring local repair experts. Not only does this keep money in your community, but it also promotes the growth of local skills and services, reducing the need for long-distance service providers and the associated carbon footprint.
How Can You Keep Your Washer Machine Lasting as Long as Possible?
Generally speaking, paying for parts, repairs, and getting an entirely new washer machine all add up, and these can all be pretty pricey. So, it’s really about doing what you can to try and avoid any potential issues or repairs. But how exactly can you do that though? Well, here’s what you need to know!
Measure Your Detergent
More soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes—in fact, using too much detergent can be harmful. The excess suds can build up inside your washer’s drum and pipes, making it work harder and wear out faster. So it’s a good idea to just stick to the recommended detergent amount (check your machine’s manual if you’re not sure). If you have soft water or a high-efficiency machine, you might need even less detergent than you think!
Keep it Level
A washing machine that shakes, rattles, or walks across the floor is a sign of trouble. No, this is not normal at all! Not only is it noisy, but it can also seriously damage your machine. This is exactly why you need to ensure your washer is level by adjusting its legs until it’s perfectly balanced.
Clean It Regularly!
Just like your clothes, your washing machine needs washing too. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and dirt can build up, leading to odors and potential repairs. This is where a lot of people get it wrong, but yes, even this needs to be thoroughly cleaned every once in a while. So, it’s going to be a good idea to set a schedule, like once a month, and run an empty cycle on hot with either a specialized cleaner. Ideally, don’t do any DIY solutions.
Take a Look at the Hoses
So it’s not just the machine itself, but you’re also going to want to check on the hose too, the one that connects to your washing machine. Be sure to check for any signs of wear, leaks, or cracks. It’s a good idea to replace the hoses every five years, even if they don’t look worn out. A burst hose can cause a major flood—a costly and messy situation you’ll want to avoid- that alone is a total nightmare!
Always Be Cautious
It’s entirely understandable that sometimes, you want to put as much as you can in your washer. The bigger the load, the less loads to deal with, right? Well, that might not be such a good idea! Instead, you have to be mindful of how you use your washing machine. Avoid overloading it, as too many clothes can strain the motor and wear out the bearings. Conversely, underloading can waste water and energy. So, you should try to wash full loads when you can, but make sure there’s still a little room for your clothes to move freely. There needs to be a balance, and over-stuffing is definitely not the answer!
Keep the Door Open After Use
Have you ever noticed any funky smells coming from your washer machine? Well, there might be a chance of mold! After finishing a load, leave the washer door open to let the interior dry out completely. This prevents mold and mildew from building up inside, which can lead to unpleasant smells and potential health risks. But of course, if you have pets or small children, make sure to keep an eye on the open door to ensure safety.
Don’t Let Your Clothes Sit
There’s a temptation to let clothes sit in the laundry for a couple of days, right? You just need to find the time and energy to dry them. Maybe you just forgot, that can happen too! But, neither of these are good. As you know, if you wait too long, the clothes begin to have a gross mildew smell. Mold and mildew isn’t good for your washer either. Try to remove your washing immediately after the cycle ends to keep the drum clean and dry.
Soften Your Water
If you live in an area with hard water, the minerals in the water can build up in your washing machine, causing it to work harder and wear out faster. So, you might want to consider installing a whole-home water softener or using a water conditioner in your laundry to help minimize mineral deposits and protect your machine. This can extend the life of your washer and also make your detergents work more effectively.
What Are You Putting In Your Washer?
Sometimes, it’s not just about maintaining the machine but also about how you use it. You should try to avoid washing heavy items like rugs (unless they are Ruggable rugs) or shoes too frequently, as these can put additional strain on the washer’s motor and drum. If you need to wash these items, consider taking them to a laundromat with commercial-grade machines designed to handle heavier loads.
Never Be Rough
Remember, your washing machine is like any major investment: treat it kindly, and it will return the favor. Honestly, regular maintenance might seem like a chore, but it’s worth it when you can add years to your machine’s lifespan.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
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Roughcasting Decoded: Tips and Tricks for Edinburgh Homeowners
Should I Use an Agent or Sell My House Myself?
What Makes Round Blue Diamond 2 a Coveted Gem Among Jewelry Enthusiasts?
How to Repair Shingles on the Roof
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Thanks for stopping by! Have a wonderful day/night depending on where you are in the world! Go with God and remember to be kind to one another!
Toodles,
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