The washing machine has become an electronic equipment that many people rely on to wash clothes quickly and save energy.
However, as reported by Consumer Reports, some people reported that their washing machines underwent repairs in the first three years, while others claimed their washing machines were still good after 28 years.
In fact, according to a survey conducted by Consumer Reports in 2021, the average age or service life of a washing machine can last up to 10 years.
Even so, the survey results found that about 30 percent of newly purchased washing machines tend to experience problems or damage in the first five years of use.
Meanwhile, for the dryer in the washing machine, there was a decrease of about 20 percent.
To make the washing machine last a long time, there are some maintenance that need to be done. Well, here's how to make washing machines and dryers last up to 10 years.
1. Pay attention to put the washing machine
The drums of modern washing machines can spin up to 1,600 rpm. To prevent the machine from vibrating excessively and damaging it, place the washing machine upright with firm feet on the floor.
2. Don't use too much detergent
Excess foam makes the washing machine work harder and can trigger extra rinse cycles, prolonging wash time and wasting energy and life.
Therefore, it is best to use the right type of detergent and in the amount recommended by the washing machine manual.
Newer models of washing machines use less water than those of 15 years ago and high efficiency (HE) detergents, which produce less suds.
3. Clean the dispenser drawer
Detergent that builds up in the dispenser drawer can cause foam to build up, making the washing machine work harder. For that, remove and clean the detergent from the dispenser drawer regularly.
4. Prevent mold growth
Mushrooms thrive when they have food and water. Washing machines provide a lot of both sourced from detergent and fabric softener residue.
To minimize mold growth, run the tub cleaning feature regularly. The recommended frequency varies depending on the washing machine. However, you can run it once a month up to every 50 cycles.
If your washing machine doesn't have this cleaning feature, you can run the washer empty on the hottest setting, then add a cup of bleach.
While the front-loader is doing its job, wipe away any moisture inside the door and on the rubber gaskets, then gently pull the gaskets to remove residue and dry the surface.
Between loads, leave the front loading door of the washing machine open or unscrew the top opening and open the dispenser to dry it.
5. Check the water supply hose
A burst water supply hose can cause flooding and damage equipment and floors. For this reason, immediately replace the water hose if it is cracked or brittle.
6. Clean the dryer lint trap
Clogged lint traps require the dryer to run longer, adding to the damage to the machine and requiring regular cleaning.
7. Change the drain of the washing machine
Washing machine exhaust ducts made of accordion-style plastic or foil may sag, allowing lint to accumulate at low points.
If the lint builds up to restrict airflow, your clothes won't dry out. Instead, replace the conduit made of rigid metal. It has smooth walls that allow air to flow and reduce lint buildup.
Use conduit connectors and metal clamps or foil tape to connect the conduit sections and provide sheet metal screws. This can trap lint as well as cause buildup in the ducts.
8. Keep the channel clean
Once you have the right type of drain, be sure to clean it at least once a year. Disconnect the duct from the dryer, then vacuum the dryer vent with the long-handled joint.
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Next, use a special brush made for cleaning the dryer duct. Insert the brush into the channel to suck up the bits of lint as you move them back and forth.
“If possible, split the channel into shorter sections for better access,” says Handel CR.
Reinstall and attach the duct to the dryer. Make sure all joints in the conduit are properly connected and held in place with clamps or foil tape.