Best Ways to Extend the Life of Your Washing Machine
If you’re like most people, then you’ll agree that buying new appliances is not the most fun thing to do. Washing machines in particular are one of the more expensive appliances you have in your home and since money doesn’t seem to be growing on trees anytime soon, it is wise to make sure you can get the most longevity out of your washer as possible.
In this post, I’ll run through some of the best tips on how any homeowner can extend the life of their washing machine. With a little mindfulness and planning, you’ll be well on your way to potentially saving big bucks on your washing machine by stretching its lifespan to its maximum.
Washing Machine Deep Clean
Why “deep clean” your washing machine? I mean… doesn't it wash itself every time you run it through a cycle? Well, it may not exactly be intuitive, but the truth is that over time your washing machine creates detergent build-up along with mildew and mold growth. Therefore, it is recommended that the average household should “deep clean” their washing machine twice per year.
So, how to do it? Below are some instructions on how to safely yet effectively deep clean your washing machine,
- Run an empty load with hot water and add 2 cups of white vinegar
- Half way through the cycle, add ½ cup of laundry detergent
- After cycle is complete, scrub any spots and stains with soft sponge
Leveling/Stabilization
Washing machines have many moving parts, seals, and gaskets that are put to hard work every time you run your machine through a cycle. One of the leading causes of premature damage to the interior essential parts to your washer is lack of stability. While every washing machine will vibrate at least a little bit during the spin cycle, aggressive vibrations cause a lot of strain on your machine. Fortunately, this is usually a simple problem to alleviate as long as you catch it early on. Simply adjust the leveling feet on the bottom of your washing machine until your washer feels rock solid on the floor.
If you are unable to achieve a solid stance with your machine’s leveling feet or your floor’s surface is too slippery or uneven, try using a set of anti-vibration pads to stabilize your washing machine.
Wipe clean gaskets
Just like the gaskets on a car door, refrigerator, or dishwasher the gasket on the lid of your machine is a part that receives a lot of wear and can typically be one of the first pieces that needs replacement. With regular cleanings, you will be able to extend the lifespan of your washing machine’s gaskets. Simply make a habit of wiping down any residue build-up from detergent and grime that occurs over regular usage.
Check hose connections for leaks
Make a point of periodically checking the hoses for leaks. Pay particular attention to the connections on the exterior of your machine and where your discharge hose empties into your drain. Not only can leaky hoses cause water damage to your appliance, but it can also cause costly damage to your laundry room floor.
Don’t Use Too Much Detergent
One of the most common laundry mistakes homeowners make is using too much detergent. While it may seem correct that using more detergent will make your clothes cleaner, it is true only to a certain extent. When you use more than the manufacturer’s recommended amount, it leads to a build up of detergent residue on your washing machine and the added chemical intensity in the mixture is much tougher on the fabric of your laundry.
Over time, the build up of detergent “scum” can create additional strain on your machine’s pump and can lead to early malfunction.
Don’t Overload Washer
Both overloading and improperly loading a washing machine can damage the machine’s agitator as well as the bearings that help rotate your washer’s drum smoothly. Check out our guide on how to properly load your washing machine for the best tips.
Clean Dispensers
Lastly, if your washing machine has detergent and/or fabric softener dispensers, make a habit of periodically washing out the dispensers with warm water. You have probably already noticed the natural build-up of these sticky substances on the trays where you add the liquids, but what isn’t visible is the build-up that can occur in the lines that transport the liquids from the dispensers to your washing machine drum. Occasionally rinsing and running warm water through them should loosen up any build-up to help it clear up and safely pass though to prevent blockage.
Thanks for reading our article! Interested in more great ways to improve your home appliances? Check out our product page as well as our blog section for more interesting articles.