When you make a large purchase, such as a washer and dryer, it is important to keep them maintained and working properly so you don't waste your money! Over time, parts in your washer and dryer can shift or wear and cause issues. It is a good idea to be cautious and check the parts to your washer and dryer. Here are some helpful tips for maintaining both your washer, and dryer.
Tips for your Washer:
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Check your washer's water hoses. You want to look for any signs of wear or splits in the hose. Most manufacture's recommend replacing the hose once every 5 years. This is a very important part of your washer to check so you can avoid any leaks or bursts, causing water to flood surrounding areas of your home. An alternative and a way to prevent this from happening is to get a high quality stainless steel hose.
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Make sure your washer is level! If your washer is not level, during the spin cycle it can move back and forth causing damage to the machine...even items that are near it. You can normally adjust the legs of your washer. Check periodically that they have not moved and are now uneven. You also could build a wood platform to keep your washer up, off the floor, nice and level.
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Keep the surface of your washer clean. It ia always a good idea to wipe down the outside of the washer. After all, who wants to set clean clothes on top of a dirty washer before drying them? It is a good idea also to keep it clean so that areas do not rust. This will help your washer look new for a long period of time and will help it last!
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Lint gathers during the drain cycle. Cleaning out the lint filter will keep your washer in good shape. It is important to check the filter and clean out every time you are finished washing your clothes.
Tips for your Dryer:
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Most of the time lint is trapped in the lint filter of your dryer. However, there are times when some lint can escape and accumulate on the inside of the dryer cabinet. This should be checked and cleaned out once a year if necessary. If your dryer is used heavily then it may be necessary to clean out the cabinet more often.
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Your dryer vent should be made from aluminum. Check the entire length of the vent pipe at least once a year or more to make sure there is no lint build up in the pipe. Lint build up in the vent pipe could lead to a fire, so it is important to check this.
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It is a good idea to take your vacuum to the lint filter every once in a while also. Cleaning the lint on the filter is important, but so is making sure you get all the lint that could become trapped in the chute, duct, or the area that the lint filter fits into. This will ensure your lint filter and area around it is clear of any lint particles.
These maintenance tips for your washer and dryer should help keep your appliances in good working condition for a long time. And when it's time to replace them, be sure to stop by Sutherlands for a variety of washers and dryers!
