When it comes to washing and drying appliances, the “average Joe” isn’t the most qualified to determine when your machine needs a simple repair or needs to be replaced completely. Here’s some of the most common problems with washers and dryers that you can become aware of to save yourself headaches and hundreds of dollars on future appliances.
Moving or Shaking
A washing machine’s purpose is to wash clothes- not waddle around your laundry. If you find that your machine starts to shake from side to side, then there is a clear problem. Make sure that all legs or the washer are even on the floor. If they are not even, try balancing them out by placing a slider underneath the height bottom corner of your washer. Although the washing machine can still serve its purpose while waddling, it’s extremely unsafe to allow your washer to remain in this state. The washing machine can potentially spill water onto your floor, causing mold a mildew or even unplug itself. When in this state, it might be time to start looking for a new washer.
Age Matters
When it comes to washers and dryers, they have a lifespan that’s a tad bit shorter than the average dog. After eight years of your loyal and trusted machine’s career, it’s in your best interest to get it replaced as soon as possible. Around this time, your washer and/or dryer will start to break down more often and the repairs will become more costly. You would be much better off investing that same money into a newer, more energy efficient model that will actually help your save on your monthly household bills.
Loud and Proud
Similar to the problem with your washer or dryer shaking; if your machine sounds like a rock band performing at the Staples Center, it’s not a good sign. Once again, check to make sure your machine is level on the ground. If it is off balance, you can place a platform underneath the washer or dryer to stabilize it in place, if the area is large enough. If you’ve tried all that you can to fix to uneven machine, you can call an appliance repair service or technician to inspect either or your washer, dryer or both. They will run diagnostics, tell you the repair process of your machines and the cost to fix them. With this information, you can determine whether or not it’s worth repairing or getting and new machine entirely.
Hopefully you took some value away from this information. Now that you can spot when it’s time to replace your washer or dryer, you should be aware of the best time to buy a new machine. It is often recommended to purchase them online as online shops are in competition with stores, so websites offer much cheaper prices to drive and maintain sales. Holiday discounts and coupons are even offered exclusive to email subscribers by these websites.
When shopping in-store, try to find holiday sales. Around Christmas time, massive discounts are added to the appliances. The manufacturers will also have new drops, usually in the fall, where season’s model last will go on sale to make room for the new machines.
All in all, if you follow these practices, you should be well on your way to getting your new washer or dryer. Make sure to do your research on the manufacturer’s to get the right product for you to keep your machines from running away and your clothes smelling fresh.