Washing machines are among the most used appliances in any household. They handle heavy loads, run often, and when they stop working, it can quickly throw off your routine. Therefore, taking a few practical steps to care for your washer can make a big difference. In this article, we’ll go over clear, realistic tips to help keep your machine running smoothly for years.
Keep the Door Open After Every Wash
Leaving the washer door open for a while after each cycle helps more than most people think. That is to say, it gives the interior a chance to dry out and prevents moisture from building up inside. Moisture that lingers in a sealed space invites mold and mildew, especially in front-loading washers.
Most importantly, this habit reduces the musty smell that can develop inside the drum or rubber seal. On the other hand, if the door stays shut, air circulation stops completely and mold growth becomes harder to control. Just leaving the door slightly ajar helps the machine breathe and dry out naturally. If you have pets or kids around, try placing a small wedge or cloth in the door gap to keep it cracked safely without letting it swing wide.
Use the Right Detergent and the Right Amount
Not all laundry detergents work the same, and choosing the correct one matters. For instance, high-efficiency washers need low-sudsing, HE-labelled detergent. Using standard soap in these machines can cause excessive suds, which stress the motor and leave residue on clothes and inside the drum.
Furthermore, using too much detergent does not mean cleaner clothes. On the contrary, it leaves behind a film that can clog parts, attract lint, and make the washer smell foul. If you see suds during the rinse cycle or your clothes feel sticky, it’s a sign you’re overdoing it. Try using less and see how your washer and clothes respond. Most modern washers clean well with less soap than you think.
Level Your Washer to Prevent Strain
Washers that shake, rattle, or walk across the floor aren’t just noisy, they’re slowly damaging themselves. A machine that’s not level places uneven stress on internal components. Over time, this affects the bearings, the suspension system, and the frame.
To clarify, your washer should be sitting evenly on all four feet. Push gently on the top corners—if it rocks, it’s off balance. You can fix this by adjusting the feet or placing a level on top and checking both front to back and side to side. Once it’s stable, the machine will run quieter and last longer. Similarly, make sure it’s on a solid surface. Thin or flexible flooring can still cause unwanted movement even if the washer itself is level.
Clean the Filter and Drain Pump Regularly
Many people don’t realize their washer has a drain filter or pump trap. These components catch lint, hair, and small items like coins or bobby pins. If they get clogged, water flow slows down or stops, leading to poor drainage or even leaks.
For instance, if your washer finishes but the clothes are soaking wet, a clogged filter could be the reason. Depending on your model, the filter is usually behind a small panel near the base. Always unplug the machine before opening this area. Place a towel or shallow tray underneath because water will likely come out. Remove the filter, rinse it under warm water, and check inside for any debris that got stuck.
Doing this every few months keeps things running properly and avoids bigger issues. If your washer is already acting up, you may want to explore options for appliance repair in Airdrie. Timely service can stop small issues from turning into full breakdowns.
Avoid Overloading the Drum
Cramming too many clothes into a wash cycle is tempting when you’re short on time. However, overloading can damage the washer’s motor, suspension system, and bearings. It also prevents clothes from cleaning properly because they can’t tumble freely.
Instead, follow the machine’s weight limit and aim for loads that leave a bit of space at the top. As a result, clothes will get cleaner, and the drum won’t take unnecessary strain. Pay extra attention to heavy items like towels or blankets, which soak up water and become much heavier during the spin cycle.
Likewise, avoid back-to-back large loads without giving the washer a short break. Running the machine constantly without pause raises the temperature of the motor and electronics, which reduces their lifespan over time.
Check the Water Hoses for Signs of Wear
Water hoses on washers often go unnoticed until they fail. Yet they handle high pressure every time you do a load. As a result, worn hoses can crack, bulge, or even burst, causing serious water damage to your home.
Every few months, take a look at the hoses behind your washer. If you see bulging, rust, or leaks near the fittings, it’s time to replace them. Rubber hoses usually last around five years, while braided stainless-steel ones can go longer. Still, even these should be inspected regularly. If you ever move the washer or it gets bumped, double-check that the hoses haven’t shifted or loosened.
If you’re unsure about what to look for, a local technician who handles washer repair in Airdrie can offer guidance or help you change them safely.
Run a Maintenance Cycle With Vinegar or Washer Cleaner
Just like any appliance that handles water, washers can collect mineral deposits, soap scum, and mold. Therefore, running a cleaning cycle once a month can help reduce buildup and eliminate lingering smells.
To clarify, you can do this by running an empty hot cycle with either a cup of white vinegar or a washer cleaning tablet. Avoid using bleach unless your manufacturer recommends it, as bleach can damage seals and hoses in some models. If the drum smells especially bad, add baking soda during the cycle or leave the door open longer to help it air out.
Regular cleaning keeps internal parts clear and prevents the buildup of grime that could interfere with water sensors or drainage systems. It also keeps your clothes from picking up any musty odor during the wash.
Use the Right Wash Settings for Your Loads
It’s easy to default to one wash cycle for everything, but using the wrong setting wears down your washer faster. For example, heavy-duty or high-spin cycles put more stress on the drum and motor. These should be reserved for large or dirty loads only.
Light clothing, delicates, or lightly soiled items don’t need the same intensity. Choosing the correct setting reduces wear and tear and saves water and energy too. Most importantly, it gives you better results with less effort.
Read your washer’s manual to understand what each cycle actually does. Once you get familiar with them, you’ll save both time and avoid extra maintenance down the road.
Look Out for Unusual Sounds or Vibrations
Strange noises often mean something is starting to go wrong. A clicking, grinding, or thumping sound might seem small at first. However, it can indicate loose components, a failing bearing, or a foreign object stuck between the drum and outer tub.
Addressing these sounds early can stop more serious damage from occurring. For example, catching a loose drum spider or cracked drive belt before it fully fails can save you from a much more expensive repair. In the same vein, vibrations or excessive shaking can often be traced back to an imbalance or leveling issue.
When in doubt, have it checked. Prompt appliance repair in Airdrie can keep your washer running smoothly and save you from costly breakdowns later.
Keep an Eye on Energy and Water Bills
Sometimes, the first clue that your washer isn’t working efficiently shows up on your utility bill. If you notice a sudden spike in water or electricity usage, your machine might be running longer, repeating cycles, or failing to drain properly.
This could mean sensors are malfunctioning, valves are leaking, or internal components are wearing down. Pay attention to whether the cycles seem longer than usual or if the washer takes several tries to spin or drain. Addressing these issues early keeps things running efficiently and saves money over time.
Don’t Forget to Inspect the Detergent Drawer and Dispenser
The detergent drawer or dispenser often builds up with dried soap, softener, and mold. This doesn’t just look bad—it can block proper dispensing during the cycle. As a result, soap may not reach your laundry evenly or might not rinse out fully.
Take out the drawer every few weeks and rinse it under warm water. Use a toothbrush or small brush to clean inside the compartment too. This ensures soap flows freely and keeps your machine clean on the inside. A clean dispenser also prevents detergent buildup in the hoses and tub.
FAQs
How often should I clean my washer filter?
You should clean the washer filter every two to three months, or more frequently if you wash items that shed lint or hair.
Is it okay to wash multiple heavy loads in one day?
It’s best to space out heavy loads to give the motor and internal parts a chance to cool down between cycles.
What causes a musty smell in a washer?
A musty smell usually comes from trapped moisture and detergent residue. Leaving the door open and running a monthly cleaning cycle helps.
Why does my washer shake during the spin cycle?
Shaking often happens when the machine is unbalanced, overloaded, or sitting on an uneven surface.
When should I consider replacing my washer hoses?
Washer hoses should be inspected regularly and replaced every five years, or sooner if you see signs of wear like bulging or cracking.
