How to Maintain Your Washing Machine
Your Washing Machine Experts, Ray & Son Heating & Air Conditioning
It makes sense to keep your washing machine in peak working order. Regular appliance maintenance goes a long way in achieving efficient, reliable, and long-term operation. There are quite a few preventive service tasks you can do quickly and easily at home. For intensive tune-ups and repairs of all makes and models, simply call on the professionals from Ray & Son Heating & Air Conditioning for convenient scheduling anywhere across Valdosta, Clyattville, Quitman, Hahira, Nashville, Adel, Lakeland, Eldorado, Tifton, Douglas, and Moultrie, GA.
We’ve put together some DIY washing maintenance tips:
- Cleaning – Washing machines can develop scale buildup, especially if you have hard water, that negatively impacts the cleanliness of the laundry. A strong machine cleaner removes scaling without causing damage to metal and plastic parts.
- Clean the rubber gasket – The rubber gasket wraps the edges and prevents damage to the laundry. Debris, detergent particles, and softener residue can gather on the edges and sides. A weekly cleaning helps to offset wear and tear.
- Clean top and sides – Along with operation, you want your machine to continue to look new. A glass cleaner works well to wipe down the exterior of the machine and keep the finish pristine and bright. It’s best to avoid storing heavy items on the appliance.
- Clean up spills – The residue from dripping detergent and fabric softener will become sticky and can cause damage. It’s best to clean it up right away by wiping it with a mild dishwashing cleaner.
- Leave the door open – Keeping the door open for 15 to 30 minutes after use is best to get rid of moisture and avoid mold and bacterial growth. It allows the tub to dry and safeguards delicate parts from moisture damage. You can also wipe the inside with a towel.
- Clean detergent and fabric softener dispensers – Without regular cleaning, dispensers become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Grimy to the touch and often green in texture, this harmful buildup will contaminate the machine and diminish the quality of cleaning.
- Check the hoses – There are two inlets and one outlet hose. Inlets should be inspected for cracks or leaks or avoid water waste. Check the outlet for the buildup of lint, fabric particles, and blockages.
- Use properly – Don’t overload the washing machine beyond capacity. The machine will not rotate effectively, negatively impacting the cleanliness of the laundry and potentially damaging the motor. Follow the instructions for weight capacity listed in the owner’s manual.
