Improve your washing machine’s lifespan with these tips

Face it, none of us enjoy doing laundry. It naturally follows then, that a washing machine happens to be our best friend in general. For the most part, washing machines are fit-it-and-forget appliances. However, that is not to say that they don’t require any care or maintenance.  

Like any other appliance, washing machines have a finite lifespan as well. Their average lifespan varies between 10 and 13 years. That doesn’t necessarily mean your new washing machine will last that long either though. Wear and tear over the years, coupled with improper care could result in your unit dying out much sooner.  

Fret not though, for we’ve brought for you this list of washing machine dos and don’ts to ensure they last you as long as possible. 

Signs of a failing washing machine

First off, to identify just how much a washing machine can last you though, it would probably be a good idea to look for a few tell-tale signs for the same. 

If your washing machine is beginning to show signs of strain, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Before you go out and buy a new model, try determining whether it’s still feasible to repair it or if getting a new one is the better option. 

ALSO READ: What is a smart washing machine? 

When the rotation of your washing machine’s drum starts becoming uneven, you’ll likely hear strange noises or smell a foul odour. This could be caused by an unbalanced load, but it could also be a sign that your washer has gone past its lifespan. 

Not only will an uneven load cause strange sounds, but it may also cause vibration. This can affect the performance of the washing machine and may also cause damage to nearby furniture or other items. Additionally, if you find water leaking from anywhere on the washer or around its base, this could indicate a problem that requires attention. 

Dos and Don’ts

Here’s how to ensure your washing machine lasts a long time. 

Dos

1. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for usage help and care.

2. Clean the hoses regularly.

3. Use a regular cycle for cleaning the drum once a month.

4. Inspect your washing machine regularly for any signs of wear or damage.

Don’ts

1. Do not overload your machine with a lot of laundry.

2. Do not leave wet clothes in the washing machine for extended periods of time.

3. Do not use fabric softener or bleach more often than recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Do not leave detergent residue on clothes or in the drum.

Washing machine maintenance tips

Here are a few washing machine care and maintenance tips, which will help elongate its lifespan.

1. Clean out the filter regularly 

The filter of your washing machine should be checked and cleaned at least every three months. This will prevent lint, soap, and dirt build-up that can affect the overall performance of your machine and reduce its life expectancy. 

2. Choose gentle wash cycles when you can 

Using the gentle wash cycle for delicate clothing items prevents fabric damage and helps keep the drum in good condition for longer. The general rule is to use a gentle cycle for any item of clothing that you don’t want to shrink or lose colour over time. 

3. Balance heavy loads and use the right detergent 

Ensure you are not overloading or underloading the washing machine and check the label on your detergents to ensure they are compatible with your washer model. For instance, most brands offer separate detergents for top-load and front-load washers, and you shouldn’t be mixing the two. Overloading or using the wrong detergent can damage the internal components of your washer, leading to issues over time and a generally reduced lifespan. 

4. Invest in an AMC for your Washing Machine 

Consider investing in an Annual Maintenance plan such as Croma’s ZipCare Annual Maintenance Contract for Washing Machines, which includes panel function checks, cleaning of the washing machine drum on an empty load, as well as the outer body, checks on the inlet and outlet pipes, as well as cleaning of its immediate premises. 

With these small tips and tricks, you can ensure your washing machine lasts you enough for years to come, such that you don’t have to frequently change it and burn a large hole in your pocket.