Washing Machine 1The washing machine is one of the most practical devices around your house, and you will find that having a washing machine will make keeping your house clean a lot easier. Seeing as the washing machine handles all of the dirty clothing that accumulates on a daily basis, it is in your best interest to care for the washing machine. There are a few simple things that you can do to keep your washing machine in good condition, and you will find that performing regular maintenance is the best way to keep it functioning with no problems:

  1. It is a good idea to check your machine for leaks, examine the hoses about once a year to prevent leaks. Visually check the hose that connects to the inlet valve. Hoses should not have cracks, leaks or be damaged in any way. Water running through this hose could cause the connectors to rust and leak. It could also cause the hose itself to rupture and leak. You can either switch out your rubber hose every few years, or you can simply use a stainless steel fill hose that will last much longer than the rubber ones.
  2. The washing machine needs to be placed on a surface that is as level as possible, as that will ensure that the machine doesn’t rock when it is on the spin cycle. If your washing machine is not placed at a level angle, the spinning parts of the washing machine will batter the inside and cause it to rock or even “walk” or move forward with the vibrations. If the washing machine doesn’t come with adjustable legs on the front of the machine, try using cinder blocks or some concrete to level off the floor where it will be placed.
  3. The outside of your washing machine is likely to get dirty and dusty with all of the dust that it kicks up, and you will find that cleaning the outside of your machine will keep it in good condition. While this is purely aesthetic, it will ensure that your washing machine stays in good shape as long as possible.
  4. The lint that is collected by the washing machine usually drains during the drain cycle of the washing, but the lint may collect in such quantities that it will not drain properly. Make sure to check the lint drain to ensure that it drains properly. Most machines will have the lint filter close to the top of the machine, and you will need to remove it, clean it, and replace it.
  5. Follow the proper loading procedure and machine operation. Never overload the machine.

Doing these few simple things for your washing machine will ensure that it remains in good condition for as long as possible.

Washing Machine 2Front load washing machines are easier on your clothes, they can handle very large loads of laundry and some even have steam cycles for delicates and removing wrinkles. But none of this is any good if the washer is making your clothes smell worse instead of better. What’s worse than drying off after a shower with a fresh, fluffy, warm towel that smells like mildew?

To keep your front loader odor free, leave the door open whenever there are no clothes being washed. This allows moisture to escape. After a wash, the tub is warm and wet, which is a hotbed for mold and mildew to grow. When the door is closed, the water has nowhere to go, except down farther under the tub. Opening the door allows it to evaporate.
USE CAUTION AND DO NOT LEAVE ANY APPLIANCE DOOR OPEN WHEN CHILDREN ARE AROUND.

HE or “high efficiency” detergent is super concentrated; this detergent produces fewer suds and has less fragrance than regular detergents. The volume of suds produced by regular detergents acts like sludge to water draining out of the tub. Read the owner’s manual to determine the type of detergent that is recommended for your machine.
Rub a cloth over the inside of the washer at least once a week. Keep a cloth nearby, and wipe down the glass on the inside of the door. Then, gently move the rubber door seal and clean inside there. You’ll notice little grooves where water can sit. Combine 3/4 cup liquid chlorine bleach with a gallon of warm water. Dip a rag in the solution and clean in the grooves of the door seal once a month.

Clean the tub. Pour one cup of bleach into the machine and run it empty on its hottest cycle. When it’s done, wipe it dry and leave the door open.
USE CAUTION AND DO NOT LEAVE ANY APPLIANCE DOOR OPEN WHEN CHILDREN ARE AROUND.
Perform this maintenance tip about once a month, or as often as you deem necessary.

If Your Unit is Not Working:

  1. Make sure the lid is closing properly.
  2. Make sure the timer and all the controls are set properly.
  3. Make sure both water faucets are turned on.
  4. Check for blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers and proper power.

If these suggested tips do not solve the problem:
Call Advanced Appliance Services (912) 756-4474 for fast professional appliance repair.

Cited: Fleet Appliance Corp. Bob Dougherty, Landers Appliance site: 4/2012