Troubleshooting Your Washer: Three Problems To Look For

Having your washing machine stop working can be frustrating, but knowing a few basics about washer repair can help you troubleshoot some of the smaller problems. If you're having problems with your washer, here are some signs to look for.

Clogged Drain Hose

A clogged drain hose can lead to an array of problems. It can prevent the tub from draining properly, which can leave your clothes soaked even after the spin cycle. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can repair this issue. You can flush the drain with hot water, and you can also use a commercial drain cleaner. If you find that neither solution works, there may be another issue at play. Contact your appliance service to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.

Dirty Drum

While a dirty drum might not impact the washer's ability to run, it can leave your clothing damaged. Bacteria, dirt, and grease can become stuck on the drum over time, and this can leave stains behind on your clothing. You can use vinegar and a soft cloth to clean the surface of the drum to remove more obvious soil and dirt deposits. Use vinegar and baking soda while running the wash cycle with hot water for a more thorough clean. Be sure to wipe down the detergent dispenser as well to remove caked-on soap and dirt, which can otherwise be dispensed during the wash cycle to cause stains.

Agitation Problems

Having a washer that doesn't spin can prevent your clothes from being thoroughly cleaned. There are several reasons that the agitator might not work. For example, you may simply be loading too much clothing inside the drum. Worn or broken belts can also be an issue. If you don't already change out the drum regularly, be sure to add this to your washer maintenance list. You can have an appliance repair person replace the belt for you if you're not comfortable performing repair work on your own.

If your washer is used every day, you may want to consider having it inspected regularly to help diagnose potential problems before they begin. This can help prevent clogs and broken belts, as well as a host of other issues. Your repair person can also inspect the wiring, drains, and other components to ensure safe operation. You can talk to your repair person about installing a leak detector as well, which can help you spot water leaks before flooding has a chance to take hold.

Contact a washer or appliance repair service near you to learn more about repairing your washer.


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