As we step into a new year, it is an ideal time to prioritize the well-being of your household appliances, and your washing machine is no exception. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life span of this essential appliance but also ensures optimal performance and efficiency. Here’s a comprehensive washing machine maintenance checklist to kick off the new year.
Clean the Door Seal and Drum
Kick off your washing machine maintenance routine by cleaning the door seal and the drum. Over time, residue from fabric softeners, detergent and dirt will accumulate, causing reduced efficiency and unpleasant odors. Wipe down the door seal and the drum with a mixture of white vinegar and hot water, paying special attention to any grime you can see or feel.
Run an Empty Wash Cycle
Running an empty wash cycle reduces odors to ensure your laundry smells fresh because it removes bacteria buildup from inside your machine. When running the empty cycle, set the water temperature to hot and add white vinegar and baking soda. This ensures that you clear out any residue you are not able to reach by wiping out the drum.
Clean the Dispenser Drawer
The detergent dispenser drawer is a prime spot for residue buildup. Remove the drawer and clean it thoroughly to ensure that no detergent or fabric softener remnants are present. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away any hardened deposits. If your washing machine has a self-cleaning dispenser, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for this process to avoid damaging the machine.
Clean Your Washing Machine Filter Regularly
Most washing machines have filters that are designed to capture lint, debris and foreign objects to keep them from causing drain clogs. Refer to the user manual for your machine to locate the filter and follow the instructions for cleaning it. If you have an older appliance and do not have a user manual, an appliance repair specialist can help you locate the filter and provide you with useful cleaning instructions. Depending on your usage and the type of laundry you wash, experts recommend that you inspect and clean the filter every three to six months. This simple step can enhance water drainage, prevent blockages and improve the overall efficiency of your washing machine.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
While there is much you can do to maintain your washing machine on your own, scheduling regular maintenance is a must. An appliance repair specialist can inspect all the components of your washing machine for wear and tear and recommend fixes for problems they find. They can also repair small problems before they can become catastrophic. Ideally, you should schedule maintenance once each year.
By following this washing machine checklist, you are ensuring its reliability for a long time to come. If you are looking for an appliance repair specialist in Chattanooga, TN to help you give your washing machine a fresh start, contact Signature Appliance and ask about our services we offer for washers and dryers without delay.
