I am the oldest of five children. Both of our parents are still together, so we all share one house. It’s a big, warm, loving, happy family experience - until the washing machine comes into the picture, that is. Save for the household’s one television and video game system, nothing causes more controversy and dissention than the washer and dryer.
’’It’s MY turn to use it!’’
’’No it’s not, dorkwad! You used it last week!’’
’’SOME people do their laundry on a regular basis - unlike YOU!’’(This snotty comment from a twelve year-old? Wow. I guess I taught her well!)
Eventually a punch is thrown, a basket of laundry is heaved out the door, or blood is shed, causing Mom to emerge on the scene like an EMT at an accident site. ’’That’s it! You’re both going to do EVERYBODY’S laundry for the rest of the week!’’
Boy, did I do a LOT of laundry when I was a kid!
So, because of my rotten attitude towards my little sister, I learned a lot about washing machines. I even learned how to replace belts, adjust the transmission, et cetera! But, to keep this review simple, I’ll focus on maintenance versus repair.
First, don’t do a ton of enormous loads in the washer. It can handle big loads sometimes, but as an everyday event? No. It’s not good for tons of clothing and other washable items to spin around in the tub frequently. Rather, do medium-sized loads, with plenty of water in the tub. Also, try to get to the machine as soon as possible when the load unbalances to the point that the washer shuts itself down and stops agitating. The faster you get to it and make things right, the less strain you’re putting on the machine. Or so was the case with the old Whirlpool we had when I was growing up, anyway.
Be sure to clean out the tub frequently. Washing powder, bleach, and other cleaners can build up on the agitator and other moving parts. This in itself may not cause much damage, but eventually the powder and such could sift down further. Besides which, do you really want to gunk up that$500 appliance?
Check hoses and power cord for signs of wear. Your hot and cold water hoses need to be in good condition to prevent them from breaking. Trust me, exploding hoses are not fun to clean up after! Also, check the power cord to ensure that it has not frayed. Remember, sometimes rodents and even your feline companion are compelled to gnaw on it.
Also, check things such as belts. They’re located underneath the washer, so you’ll have to disconnect it from everything and turn it onto its side. Be careful and gentle so as not to dislodge anything attached to the top - such as the timer mechanisms and such behind the dials. Examine belts for fray or slippage and replace if necessary. Make sure that all bolts and nuts are secure and rust-free. And, if anything looks out of whack, be sure to call in qualified service personnel to take care of it - especially if the machine is still under warranty.
All in all, following your owner’s manual, listening to service reps, and using your head will ensure that your washer enjoys a long, virtually trouble-free life. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to wash seventeen pairs of socks, twenty undershirts, and eight pairs of jeans - apparently I haven’t outgrown Mom’s cruel and unusual punishments yet!