We get a lot of usage out of our appliances. Specific appliances like our washing machine and dryer are tasked with handling large loads of laundry, day in and day out. We also spend a lot of money on laundry detergent, dryer sheets, and washing machines cleaning supplies. We never really realize how often we use these appliances until they are no longer working. Washing machine repairs can be expensive and can leave us running to the local laundry mat numerous times per week. These tips will help you take better care of your appliances and will hopefully reduce the number of washing machine repairs you need.
Always go with the appliance warranty
When you purchase a new appliance, you usually have the option to add a warranty. Although this warranty cost will likely put you over what you wanted to spend, it is usually a good purchase. If something goes wrong on your machine within the first couple of years, the repair and replacement costs are covered. This can prevent you from having to spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars on washing machine repairs right after you have purchased it. In 2014, the average cost to repair an appliance was $254 to $275.
Follow all of the manual instructions
Most appliances come with detailed manuals. Many appliance owners never look twice at this manual, throwing it in the bottom of a drawer somewhere, or even throwing it out. This manual, however, can help you prolong the use of your appliance. There may be specific settings or features that can help you more efficiently use your appliance. The manual can also be helpful in troubleshooting problems, preventing you from having to call for washing machine repairs. Even if you do not thoroughly read through the owner?s manual, make sure you store it in a place that you can easily reach it.
Schedule routine preventative maintenance and inspections
Routine preventative maintenance and inspections can also prevent your appliance from wearing out prematurely. Your washing machine, for example, should last 10 years before you think about replacing it. Even your dishwasher should last at least nine years before you have to think about replacing it. Both dishwasher repairs and washing machine and dryer repairs can be expensive. It is even more expensive to fully replace an appliance, so make sure you are keeping up with regular inspections and preventative maintenance.
Regularly clean your appliance
Cleaning might fall under the preventative maintenance category but is very important in preventing damage. When a washing machine gets too dirty, it can become clogged and stop working. If the clog is not handled in a timely matter, you could be faced with a backed up machine. This could lead to flooding and water damage in your laundry room. You could also damage the clothing items that are currently in the washing machine at the time of the backup. Regardless of the type of appliance you are using, it should be regularly cleaned.
Know when it is time to replace your appliance
Household appliances do not last forever. If you are constantly calling in for repairs or having trouble with your washing machine, it might be time to replace it. Although you will have to dish out a couple hundred dollars for a new appliance, you will find that you are saving money in repair costs. Additionally, newer appliances are made with better efficiency ratings, meaning you will also reduce your monthly household utility costs.
Many Americans rely on household appliances for daily chores. The washing machine and dryer are two of the most used household appliances. It is important that you are keeping up with regular cleanings, inspections, and preventative maintenance tasks. These preventative measures will prolong the life of your washer and dryer.
