How to Extend the Life of Your Washing Machine
Washing Machine cleaning and care tips for homeowners, especially in service areas like Topeka, replacing a washer too soon means more bills and more stress. Keeping your washer in top shape saves money, prevents emergencies, and delays costly replacements. This guide walks through easy steps to help your washer last longer.
Keep the Load Light
Don’t Overstuff the Drum
Heavy loads stress the motor and bearings. Overloading also leads to poor cleaning and drainage issues.
Stick to recommended limits in your user manual.
A few more loads now are better than a broken washer later.
Balance the Load Every Time
An uneven load causes shaking and damage over time.
Make sure clothes are evenly spaced around the drum.
For top loaders, place items loosely. For front loaders, leave some space at the top.
Clean Your Washer Regularly
Wipe Down the Gasket and Door
Mold and grime build up fast, especially on front loaders.
Use a damp cloth to clean the rubber seal and door after each wash.
This prevents smells, mold, and wear.
Run a Cleaning Cycle Monthly
Run an empty hot water cycle with white vinegar or a washer cleaner once a month.
This flushes out soap, bacteria, and residue.
Clean washers work better and last longer.
Use the Right Detergent
HE Machines Need HE Detergent
If your washer is high efficiency, only use HE labeled soap.
Using the wrong detergent creates too many suds.
That causes buildup and damages the washer’s internal system.
Don’t Use Too Much Soap
More isn’t better. Excess soap leaves residue inside hoses and drums.
Use the measuring cap that comes with the detergent.
Your washer won’t rinse properly if you overdo it.
Watch the Hoses
Inspect Every 6 Months
Check all hoses, especially the water inlet, for cracks, bulges, or wear.
Hose failures cause leaks, flooding, and water damage.
Replace hoses every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if they look damaged.
Use Steel Braided Hoses
They last longer and resist bursting.
Rubber hoses wear faster, especially in warm laundry rooms.
Steel options give peace of mind for busy homes.
Leave the Door Open
Let the Drum Dry Out
Trapped moisture creates mildew and odors.
After each wash, keep the door open to let air in.
This is especially important for front loaders.
Keep the Machine Level
Check the Legs and Floor
A shaky washer shortens its life.
Use a level to make sure the washer sits evenly on all four legs.
Adjust the feet if needed and place the washer on a solid surface.
Use Full Loads Wisely
Avoid Half Loads
Frequent half loads waste water and cause more wear.
Wait until you have a full load before starting the machine.
It’s easier on your washer and your wallet.
Empty Pockets Before Washing
Small Objects Can Ruin the Drum
Coins, keys, and screws do major damage.
They dent the drum, clog the pump, or break the glass door.
Always check pockets before starting a cycle.
Clean the Lint and Drain Filters
Check Monthly
Some washers have lint filters and all have drain pumps.
Lints, hair, and fabric particles can clog them.
A clogged filter stops water from draining and overworks the motor.
Handle With Care
Don’t Slam the Lid
It sounds small, but slamming the lid adds stress to hinges and sensors.
Gently open and close the door every time.
Use the Right Settings
Match the Cycle to the Load
Don’t use the “Heavy Duty” setting for regular clothes.
It puts more strain on the motor and drum.
Follow garment tags and use the right cycles.
Protect From Power Surges
Use a Surge Protector
Storms and outages are common in Kansas.
Plug your washer into a surge protector to avoid electrical damage.
This small step can save you hundreds in repair bills.
Avoid Long Gaps Between Washes
Run the Washer Weekly
Letting washers sit idle for long stretches allows seals to dry out and crack.
Even if you do laundry once a week, your machine stays in better shape.
Schedule a Yearly Check Up
Call a Local Technician
Once a year, have a licensed tech check hoses, seals, motor sound, and water flow.
Small issues get caught before they become major breakdowns.
This is a simple, smart way to protect your investment.
Choose a Trusted Brand
Look for Reliable Manufacturers
Some models break down sooner than others.
Brands like Whirlpool, Kenmore, Samsung, and Gibson have proven track records and better part support.
Local repair services often carry these parts on hand.
Common Signs Your Washer Needs Help
(a) Longer cycles than normal
(b) Strange sounds like banging or grinding
(c) Clothes come out too wet or soapy
(d) Water leaking from below
(e) Error codes on display
(f) Catch these early. Call a repair tech before it gets worse.
When a Repair Call Is Worth It
(a) The machine is under 10 years old
(b) The problem is minor (a worn belt or broken latch)
(c)The parts are still in stock
(d) Your washer still matches the rest of your laundry setup
According to Consumer Reports, fixing a washer is worth it when repair costs are less than half of replacement.
When to Start Shopping
(1) Your washer is over 12 years old
(2) It keeps breaking down
(3) It leaks or shakes even after service
(4) Replacement parts aren’t available
(5) It uses too much water or power
In these cases, it may be smarter to replace than repair.
Conclusion
Washing machines can last well over a decade with care.
The effort you put in now saves money later.
Simple steps like cleaning, balancing, and checking hoses go a long way.
Don’t wait for leaks, noise, or smells to get worse.
If your washer shows signs of trouble, call a trusted local technician.
A quick fix today can stop a costly breakdown tomorrow.
