In today’s tight economy, the last thing anyone wants is the unexpected cost of repairing or replacing a major appliance like a washer or dryer.
These essential machines are a cornerstone of daily life, quietly working behind the scenes to keep your household running smoothly. But when they break down, the financial strain can be significant—especially when you’re faced with choosing between costly repairs or investing in a new unit altogether.
Fortunately, by adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly extend the life of your washer and dryer.
If you’re looking for quick and easy maintenance tips, read on.
Washer Care Tips
1. Clean the Drum and Gaskets Regularly
Over time, soap residue, dirt, and lint can build up in your washer’s drum and around the rubber gaskets. This buildup can lead to unpleasant odors, mold, and mildew. Cleaning these areas regularly prevents these issues and keeps your washer running efficiently.
What You Can Do:
-
- Wipe down the inside of the drum and gaskets after each use.
- Run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar or a specialized washing machine cleaner once a month to remove any lingering residue.
- Keep the door open after use to allow the drum to dry out, reducing the chances of mold growth.
2. Avoid Overloading the Washer
It’s tempting to cram as much laundry as possible into a single load, but overloading the washer puts unnecessary strain on the drum and motor. This can lead to wear and tear that shortens the lifespan of your appliance.
What You Can Do:
-
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for load size. If your washer has a load sensor, pay attention to its feedback.
- Wash bulky items, like blankets and towels, separately from smaller loads. This helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the machine.
Dryer Care Tips
1. Clean the Lint Trap and Vent
A clean lint trap is essential for your dryer’s efficiency and safety. Lint buildup reduces airflow, making the dryer work harder and increasing the risk of fire. Regular cleaning of the lint trap and vent ensures your dryer operates at its best.
What You Can Do:
-
- Remove lint from the trap after every load.
- Periodically check the vent that leads outside. If you notice a lot of lint or reduced airflow, it’s time to clean the vent.
- Consider scheduling a professional vent cleaning once a year to ensure it’s clear and safe.
2. Inspect the Dryer Belt
The dryer belt plays a critical role in turning the drum. If it becomes worn or starts to fray, the belt can snap, leaving you with a non-functional dryer. Inspecting the belt regularly can prevent this inconvenience.
What You Can Do:
-
- Listen for unusual noises like squeaking or thumping, which may indicate a worn belt.
- If you feel comfortable doing so, open the dryer’s access panel and visually inspect the belt. If it looks worn or damaged, replacing it sooner rather than later can save you from bigger problems down the road.
Regular Maintenance Pays Off
Regular maintenance can keep your washer and dryer working efficiently for years.
Beyond cleaning and checking for wear, you can also extend the life of these appliances by using them thoughtfully. For example, always sort your laundry and use the appropriate settings for each load. Small steps like these can reduce the strain on your machines, helping them to last longer.
Setting up calendar reminders is an easy way to stay on top of maintenance tasks. Whether it’s a monthly reminder to run a cleaning cycle in the washer or a quarterly note to check the dryer vent, these small efforts can make a big difference in the lifespan of your appliances.
But if you run into more serious issues or want a professional maintenance plan, we’re here to help.
You can schedule a professional inspection on our website or call us at (813) 395-5980.
