Your washing machine handles hundreds of loads every year, and that kind of workload takes a toll. The good news is that most washing machine breakdowns I see on service calls in the Denver area could have been prevented with a little routine maintenance. Here are six simple habits that will keep your washer running smoothly and help you avoid an unexpected repair bill.
1. Clean the Drum Monthly
Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and mineral deposits build up inside the drum and around the door seal. This creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which leads to that musty smell many homeowners complain about. Once a month, run an empty hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner tablet. This dissolves buildup and keeps the interior fresh.
If you have a front-loader, pay extra attention to the rubber gasket around the door. I recommend wiping it down with a damp cloth after every few loads to prevent mold from taking hold in the folds.
2. Do Not Overload the Machine
I understand the temptation to stuff one more towel in there to save time, but overloading is one of the fastest ways to wear out your washer. When the drum is packed too tightly, the motor and bearings have to work much harder than they were designed to. Over time, this leads to premature bearing failure, belt wear, and even damage to the suspension system.
A good rule of thumb is to fill the drum about three-quarters full. Your clothes need room to tumble freely so the water and detergent can circulate properly. You will actually get cleaner clothes with a properly sized load.
3. Inspect the Hoses Regularly
The water supply hoses connected to the back of your washing machine are under constant pressure, and a burst hose can flood your laundry room in minutes. I recommend checking your hoses every six months for signs of cracking, bulging, or corrosion at the fittings. If your hoses are the original rubber ones that came with the machine, consider upgrading to stainless steel braided hoses. They are more durable and far less likely to burst.
Also, make sure the connections are tight but not over-tightened. A small drip at the fitting is an early warning sign that the hose or washer needs to be replaced before it fails completely.
4. Use the Right Detergent and the Right Amount
Using too much detergent is a problem I see constantly. More soap does not mean cleaner clothes. Excess detergent creates too many suds, which leaves residue on your clothes and inside the machine. In high-efficiency (HE) washers, using non-HE detergent or too much of it can trigger error codes, cause the machine to run extra rinse cycles, and eventually damage the pump.
Always use HE detergent in a high-efficiency washer and follow the recommended amount on the label. For most loads, you need far less detergent than you might think.
5. Leave the Door Open After Each Load
This is especially important for front-loading washers. When you close the door immediately after a cycle, you trap moisture inside the drum and gasket. That warm, damp environment is exactly where mold and mildew thrive. After you remove your laundry, leave the door ajar for a few hours to let the interior air dry completely.
If you have a top-loader, leaving the lid open serves the same purpose. It is a simple habit that goes a long way toward preventing odor and keeping the drum clean between monthly cleaning cycles.
6. Clean the Drain Filter
Most front-loading washers have a small drain filter or trap at the bottom front of the machine, usually hidden behind a small panel. This filter catches lint, coins, hair ties, and other small items that could clog the drain pump. If it gets too clogged, the machine will not drain properly, and you may notice water pooling inside the drum or an error code on the display.
I recommend cleaning this filter every two to three months. Place a towel and a shallow pan underneath before opening it, because water will come out. Remove any debris, rinse the filter, and snap it back in place. It takes five minutes and can prevent a service call.
Need help with your washing machine? I diagnose and repair all major brands, and same-day service is available in the Denver metro area.
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
These six habits take very little time but can add years to the life of your washing machine. Most of the washer repairs I handle in the Denver metro area could have been delayed or avoided entirely with basic upkeep. If you are already noticing issues like strange noises, leaks, or error codes, do not wait for the problem to get worse. A $75 service visit now can save you hundreds down the road.
