There they stand, those faithful servants, our washer and dryer, waiting stoically for their next use. They’re sturdily built, simple to use and only moderately expensive. If properly maintained, they’ll give you years of service. It only takes some simple steps to extend the lifetime of your appliances and minimize washer and dryer repair costs.
7 Automatic Washer Maintenance Tips
Home washers come in two basic models: front loaders and top loaders. Though initially more expensive, front loaders tend to pay for themselves, as they use about two thirds less water than the less expensive top loaders. Whatever your model, the following maintenance tips for your automatic washer can help prolong its life.
1. Empty the Washer of Wet Clothes As Soon As Possible
This is one of the easiest — and most essential — washer maintenance steps to perform. Left in the washer, wet clothes create unpleasant odors and can cause mold and mildew buildup if they sit for too long.
Related: What To Do When Your Washer Won't Drain
2. Inspect the Door
Another simple tip is to check the front loader door gaskets for moisture. When wetness is present, it can cause mold and mildew to accumulate, which can prevent the door from sealing properly during the wash cycle. Wipe the gaskets dry after every use and leave the door open slightly, so air can circulate and dry remaining moisture. While you’re at it, clean the gaskets and drum every month with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. And for a top loader, leave the door open after each washing to foster air circulation and prevent mildew.
3. Don’t Overload the Washer
Oversized loads can lead to poor wash results, damaged clothing and damage to the washer as a result of the machine being off balance. For most fabrics, the machine should be loosely filled rather than packed tight.
Related: Am I Using Too Much Laundry Detergent or Cleaner?
4. Perform Periodic Maintenance Washes
Two to three times a year, run the washer without any clothes in the drum. Run on the hottest cycle using the normal amount of detergent. These regular maintenance washes will keep the machine and drain pipes clean and free from dirt, grease and hard-water salts buildup.
5. Keep the Machine Level
Check to make sure the machine is level so the drum is balanced when it spins. Spinning out of balance places a strain on parts and can significantly reduce the longevity of your washer. Most washers use adjustable legs with locking nuts for leveling. (Note: Turn the legs clockwise to lower them and counter-clockwise to raise them.) Adjust and tighten these legs to balance the machine. Some machines also have back legs that adjust automatically. Once you’ve adjusted the front legs, tilt the machine forward to allow the back legs to balance out.
6. Inspect the Hoses
Unattended, a burst water hose can spill hundreds of gallons an hour into your home. To prevent this calamity, inspect your hoses several times a year. If you see cracks or breaks, unplug the machine, turn off the water supply on both hoses and replace them, preferably with braided, metal hoses that can’t split open. Also, use a bristle brush to clean the filters of debris and sediment that reduce the machine’s water flow. Finally, replace your hoses every five years and tape the date on them so you know when you last replaced them.
7. Don’t Forget the Exterior
To prevent rusting, fill in scratches and gashes with touch-up paint from your local hardware or home supply store. Use a mild soap to wash the outside surfaces as well as the buttons and control dials to prevent sticking and malfunctions. That goes for your dryer, too.
