Washing machines are more likely to malfunction if they are treated carelessly and forced to go beyond their inherent limitations. To avoid the need for washer repair in the future, learn about the types of practices that can lead to a breakdown.
1. Overloading the Tub
If you stuff the tub full, the machine works harder, which means more wear and tear on the bearings and other components. It's easier on the equipment to run two times with normal-sized loads than to run once over capacity.
2. Adding Items That Are Too Heavy
That sleeping bag or quilt may not seem exceptionally hefty when you first put it into the machine, but consider how much extra weight is added once it gets wet. If that extremely heavy laundry winds up on one side of the machine, the tub can go off balance in a dramatic fashion.
Some machines shut off automatically when the drum becomes unbalanced. If yours doesn't, and you don't shut it off immediately, the weight of the wet fabric might even break one of the bars holding the tub in place.
3. Putting Too Little Laundry in a Top Loader
Very small loads can cause a top loader to go off balance. If your machine came with a small washtub to place inside for small or gentle loads, don't avoid using it. If it doesn't have this device, wait until you have more laundry to wash -- or do some by hand.
4. Leaving Things in Pockets
Facial tissue is a common culprit for being left in a pocket. In the washing machine, it disintegrates, leaving behind a mess of tiny pieces of paper you have to clean up. The main problem is that some of those paper pieces go down the washer drain. That can clog the drain and filter, especially if it happens frequently.
5. Washing Very Dirty Items
If your clothes are caked with dirt, it's best to rinse that dirt off before putting the laundry in the washer. Clumps of dirt and grit can plug the drain and filter. You might hose the clothes off in the yard, or rinse them in a bucket and dump that water outside.
6. Not Inspecting Hoses
Go behind your machine at least once a year and check over the hoses. They can become brittle over time and crack, leading to water leaking into the room. If the hoses have seen better days, call an appliance repair technician and get them replaced.
To learn more, contact a washer repair company like Jerry's Appliance Services.
