How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Washing Machine

A well-functioning washing machine is an essential part of our household. As one of the more expensive members of the appliance family, it is also an investment we should try to protect for as long as we can and ensuring we can keep it functioning for a long time is critical to saving us time and money. 

Today, we will examine how you can extend the lifespan of your washing machine, for example, by regularly cleaning it, using the right detergent, maintaining a regular maintenance schedule, and more. By following these proactive tips, you can add a few years to the life of your washing machine and protect your investment.

Regular Cleaning

One of the most fundamental things to do is to keep your washing machine clean. It may initially sound odd that something designed to clean something gets dirty. Still, over time, detergent residue, fabric softeners, and dirt can accumulate in various parts of your machine, leading to unpleasant odours and potentially affecting the machine’s efficiency.

To keep your machine clean, you can do the following:

• Drum: Run an empty cycle with hot water and two cups of white vinegar. Once complete, run another cycle with a cup of baking soda. This helps to remove residue and sanitize the drum.
• Detergent Drawer: Remove the drawer and soak it in warm soapy water. Use a brush to scrub any buildup before rinsing and drying it thoroughly.
• Filters: Clean the lint trap and any accessible filters regularly to prevent blockages and maintain proper water flow.

To keep your machine running smoothly, we recommend cleaning the drum and detergent drawer once a month and checking the filters after every few washes.

Avoid Overloading

Overloading your washing machine can lead to a host of problems because it can put some major strain on different components of your washing machine. It can lead to inefficient cleaning and increased wear and tear on the internal components. Each washing machine has a recommended load capacity, which we recommend sticking to to guarantee the best performance.

The easiest way to determine the correct load size is to consult the user manual for your machine’s load capacity. But generally, fill the drum loosely, allowing enough space for clothes to move freely and don’t fill it too high. Overloading can cause the washer drum to become imbalanced, leading to excessive vibration and noise. Over time, this strain can damage the drum and other internal parts, reducing the machine’s lifespan.

Use the Right Detergent

Since the advent of high-efficiency (HE) detergents, choosing the suitable detergent has become crucial. Regular and high-efficiency (HE) detergents are formulated differently, and using the wrong type can lead to buildup and poor performance.

Regular detergents produce more suds and are suitable for top-load washers. In contrast, HE detergents are more low-sudsing and explicitly designed for high-efficiency machines like front-load washers. Excessive suds can trap dirt and leave residue in the drum and hoses, leading to odours and potential mechanical issues. Always use the detergent type recommended by the manufacturer and measure carefully to keep your washer from aging prematurely.

Inspect and Replace Hoses

Another simple but effective preventative measure is regularly checking the hoses connected to your washing machine. Over time, hoses can wear out and lead to leaks that can cause water damage inside and outside the machine, among other issues.

If you find visible cracks, bulges, signs of wear, leaks, or moisture around hose connections, it is time to take action to prevent a potentially catastrophic failure that could flood your place. We recommend replacing hoses every five years or sooner if any signs of wear are present. Use high-quality stainless steel braided hoses for added durability.

Balance the Machine

If your washing machine is not balanced, it can cause vibrations that lead to a lot more strain on the internal components of your washer and reduce its lifespan considerably. Check that your machine is level using a spirit level and that all four legs are firmly on the ground.

An unbalanced washing machine can lead to excessive noise, and vibrations can damage internal components and make the machine less effective at cleaning. It can also lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.

Leave the Door Open

Humid environments have always been fertile breeding grounds for mould and mildew, and your washing machine is no exception. Leaving the door or lid open after each wash allows the inside of the machine to dry out completely, preventing the buildup of odours and a negative impact on the cleanliness of your laundry.

The air circulation of leaving the door or lid open helps to dry out any remaining moisture and reduces the risk of mould and mildew growth, keeping the drum clean and fresh.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Setting up a regular maintenance schedule is a great idea, but professional maintenance can catch potential issues before they become serious problems. In addition to your own regular checkups, scheduling regular inspections with a repair technician ensures your washing machine remains in optimal condition.

We recommend having a professional technician inspect and service your washing machine once a year to identify and address minor issues before they escalate.

During a maintenance visit, you can expect the following:

• A thorough inspection of all mechanical and electrical components.
• Cleaning and lubricating parts as needed.
• Checking hoses, seals, and connections for wear and leaks.

Address Issues Promptly

Finally, if you notice a sign that your washing machine needs maintenance, don’t try to push it too late. Try to address it promptly, even if it may seem minor. Delaying action can lead to the problem becoming bigger and more costly and also impact the lifespan of your washing machine.

Common Signs of Problems:

• Unusual noises during operation.
• Leaks or puddles around the machine.
• Inconsistent cleaning results or unusual odours.

Choose a proactive approach and deal with small headaches before they turn into migraines. Your washing machine and bank account will thank you.

Conclusion

There are several ways to help extend your washing machine’s lifespan while giving you better performance and cost savings. By following these tips—regular cleaning, avoiding overloading, using the suitable detergent, inspecting hoses, balancing the machine, leaving the door open, scheduling regular maintenance, and addressing issues promptly—you can significantly contribute to your washing machine lasting longer.

Take the first step towards prolonging the life of your washing machine by booking a professional maintenance check with iCare’s washing machine repair service today. Our experienced technicians are ready to help keep your appliance in top condition.