A functioning washer and dryer are two luxuries often taken for granted. You may not realize how vital these appliances are to day-to-day living until the moment one breaks, and your laundry starts piling up. To get ahead of the inevitable, here are four signs that your washer or dryer may be on its last legs.
Your Unit Makes New, Strange Noises
Occasional noises from washing machines and dryers are normal, especially for large laundry loads or from a unit on an uneven floor. However, new noises that aren’t fixable with minor adjustments can signify a failing part somewhere inside the unit. Keep in mind that you may not be able to access this failing part without disassembling the unit and putting it back together, which you may or may not be qualified to do.
Whether or not you decide to repair the unit will depend on the part in question. Not only do you have to obtain the part, but you will also probably need a certified technician to install it safely. Unless you have prior knowledge of washer and dryer mechanics and some background in electrician work, odds are this is one project you may not want to do yourself.
In some cases, it may be more economical to replace the whole machine. Check in with the company or retailer you purchased the unit from, as they may have more options for you to choose from, such as in-house repair service, replacement parts, or full appliance replacement.
Your Washer Leaks
A leaky washing machine can be caused by a number of things, such as a damaged hose or a bad seal. Whatever the cause, a leak is unlikely to resolve itself and is more likely to get worse over time. This is why you should act immediately when you notice a leak by contacting a washer and dryer repair service. A professional repairman can diagnose the issue correctly and fix it in a timely manner, preventing any damage to the machine and to the surrounding area of your laundry room.
As you wait for a repairman, try to keep away from the leaking unit–that includes children and pets as well. Be sure to turn off the power to the unit, as a water leak and electricity do not mix. Be sure to mop up any pooled water from the floor to avoid any slipping or water damage.
Your Clothes Aren’t Getting Dry
Nobody likes putting on wet clothes. Sometimes, a clogged vent or a kink in the air duct can prevent the dryer from drying your clothes effectively. These issues can be resolved easily by manually clearing out obstructions, the lint trap, or recruiting an HVAC service to thoroughly clean your dryer vent.
In fact, hiring a professional is recommended, because the lint trapped in your dryer vent poses a significant fire risk. However, if you see no venting issues, then your dryer probably has a malfunctioning heating element. Once the heating element fails, the dryer will no longer be able to dry clothes. This, unfortunately, means the unit is more or less useless, and either needs repairs, or a full replacement.
Your Unit is Almost a Decade Old
Eventually, your washer and dryer will simply putter out and stop working with age. On average, a washer and dryer will work for about ten years, give or take a few depending on its brand, usage, environment, and maintenance.
If your machine is close to ten years old, it may be more cost-effective to replace than repair, as many companies develop newer and better units each year. Some companies even offer warranties and discounts for their appliances, which may be worth looking into. A warranty for your appliances could be a monthly or yearly fee, often including the provider’s repair services. Enrolling in a warranty program may be wiser than not, but keep an eye out for good deals when you see them.
To keep your laundry room running smoothly, keep an eye out for these issues. Then, be sure to consult a professional expert before embarking on repairs, as these repairs may be out of your league. This way, you can keep your appliance in working order and maximize its lifespan, easing any headaches and preventing problems before they arise.
