Five Recommendations for Maintaining a Washing Machine
With all the money you spend on a washing machine, you expect it to last. There are several things that companies such as Lamar’s Appliance Repair suggest that will help you maintain your appliance. Following are five recommendations to help keep your washing machine running well:
· Let the machine dry out between uses.
· Use vinegar to get rid of hard water deposits.
· Use only the recommended amount of detergent.
· Check your hoses once a month.
· Make sure the machine is level.
Let the Machine Dry
The inside of a washing machine doesn’t dry very quickly, especially in humid climates. Washing your clothes generally prevents mold from growing in the tub. However, mold can still grow around the nuts and bolts of the doors. If you have a front-load machine, dry the door each time you are finished using the appliance. If you have a top load appliance, lift the lid and let it air dry.
Use Vinegar for Hard Water
Hard water makes your clothes dingy, and it builds up in your appliance. Instead of using a rinse aid, use 1/4 cup of vinegar. Once a month, run half a gallon of vinegar through a rinse cycle to further strip hard water deposits.
Use the Recommended Amount of Detergent
Each washing machine comes with a recommended amount of detergent. Do not use more than that amount. If you use pre-packaged tablets, make sure they are not putting too much detergent in your machine. Too much detergent can actually harm your machine.
Check Your Hoses Once a Month
If you use your washing machine frequently, check your hoses once a month. If you use it less often, check them semiannually. Look for signs of wear such as splitting, cracking, bulging, or leaking. Also check to make sure that the hoses are tightened properly.
Keep the Appliance Level
When a washing machine is not level, it will rock back and forth. The constant rocking motion can eventually break parts in the appliance. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to level your particular machine. If you don’t know how to do it, call a company such as Lamars appliance repair for help.
