Could These Common Mistakes Be Shortening Your Washing Machine’s Lifespan?

 

Could These Common Mistakes Be Shortening Your Washing Machine’s Lifespan?

Washing machines are designed to simplify life, dealing with laundry loads daily. But if not properly maintained and used, even the most superior machines can malfunction before their time. Most households unwittingly engage in daily practices that gradually lower the lifespan of their washing machine.

If you're always looking for Washing Machine Repair in Calicut, maybe it's time to sit back and think: Am I using my washing machine correctly?

In this article, we'll expose common pitfalls that could be ruining your washing machine—and how you can steer clear of them to make your machine last longer.

1. Overloading the Drum

Squeezing in "just one more towel" is harmless looking, but it's one of the quickest ways to wear out your machine.

What occurs when you overload:

• The drum goes out of balance
• The motor labors, resulting in premature wear
• Clothing doesn't get cleaned properly
• Bearings and suspension components wear out prematurely

Pro Tip: Follow the manufacturer's load capacity. If your laundry quantities exceed that, do several loads instead of jeopardizing long-term function.

2. Too Much Detergent

More soap does not equal cleaner clothes. In fact, too much detergent can produce excess suds that your washer has trouble rinsing off.

Hazards of overusing detergent:

• Soap residue accumulates in the drum and hoses
• Produce foul smells and mold growth
• Causes more wear on internal parts
• Deposits residue on clothing, causing skin irritation

Use the amount suggested, particularly if you have an HE model. Always use HE detergent with HE machines.

3. Forgetting the Lint Filter and Drain Pump

Your washing machine, like a dryer, also has filters that trap lint, coins, hair, and other foreign material.

Forgetting these components can cause:

• Inadequate drainage or water leak
• Unusual noises or vibrations
• Foul odors
• Pump failure

Maintenance tip: Clean the lint trap and drain pump filter every 2–3 months. If you’re unsure how, a quick inspection by a professional can help.

4. Not Cleaning the Washer Itself

Washing machines clean your clothes, but they also need cleaning to stay effective. Dirt, detergent, and moisture can combine to create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

What can go wrong:

• Musty-smelling clothes
• Gasket mold (especially in front-load washers)
• Odors from the drum
• Less effective washing

Professional tip:

• Every month, perform a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a washer cleaner
• Clean the drum, gasket, and detergent drawer
• Leave the washer door open when not in use to promote air circulation

5. Washing Stuff That Shouldn't Go into a Machine

It may be tempting to add everything from rugs to shoes, but not all things are suitable for the washer.

Hazards of the wrong items:

• Throw rugs with rubber backing will rot and clog hoses
• Huge items such as sneakers may ruin the drum or suspension
• Unattached coins or buttons will jam the pump

Solution: Always read labels, and if unsure, hand wash some items or have them cleaned at a professional laundry shop.

6. Incorrect Wash Cycle

Your machine has different settings for a purpose. Using the wrong one consistently will overwork or underwork some functions.

Examples:

• Overuse of "heavy duty" results in unnecessary wear on garments and the rum
• Over-washing on high-speed washes results in stretching or breakage
• Quick wash is less effective for oversized or heavily stained loads

Fix: Select wash cycle according to fabric type and soil level. It provides effective cleaning and makes your machine last longer.

7. Neglecting Professional Maintenance

As with any appliance, routine checks are required for washing machines, most importantly after years of service. Failure to perform checks may lead to undetected wear that progressively causes breakdowns.

What can be detected early:

• Belt or motor wear
• Pump inefficiencies
• Loose parts or faulty sensors
• Limescale deposits in hard water locations

If you've been following Washing Machine Repair in Calicut more than annually, it may be time to take up preventative maintenance rather than reactive repairs.

8. Failing to Level the Washer

A washer that is not levelled will vibrate excessively, compromising internal parts and surrounding furniture.

Symptoms of imbalance:

• Rustling noises during spin cycles
• Machine "walking" or moving during operation
• An abnormal wear on the drum or motor

Solution: Utilize a leveling tool and raise the machine's feet. Adding anti-vibration pads for extra stability is also possible.

9. Failing to Check Hoses and Connections

Washing machines can leak when their hoses crack or become loose. Failing to respond to these hints will result in water damage and mold on your machine.

What to do:

• Check hoses every few months
• Replace rubber hoses every 5 years with steel-braided ones
• Look for rust or water marks around connections

Conclusion

Your washing machine is a long-term investment, and with the right care, it can serve you well for over a decade. Avoiding these common mistakes not only extends your machine’s lifespan but also saves you money on repairs and replacements.

For professional attention and guaranteed solutions, count on Fixail — the leading name for washing machine maintenance, testing, and assistance. Whether your appliance requires periodic checkups or emergency repair, Fixail keeps your equipment in mint condition.