Washing Machine Problems?
Precautions
It’s common knowledge that before working on a washing machine or any other electric appliance, the appliance must be unplugged. People sometimes think a small repair doesn’t warrant unplugging a washing machine or other small appliance, but no matter how small the repairs, always unplug a washing machine or any other electrical appliance before working on it. Unplugging a washing machine or other electrical appliance only takes a second, and that second may be the difference between life and death by electrocution.
Tips for Buying Parts to Repair a Broken Washing Machine
Before taking apart your broken washing machine, consider where you’ll buy washer parts if you discover you need them. Avoid buying washer parts from a washing machine repair company. Washing machine repair companies buy washing machine parts from wholesale appliance parts dealers, and the prices of the parts are marked up considerably. Search for wholesale appliance parts dealers, and call around or compare online stores for the best price. Take the time to shop where the washing machine service companies buy their parts, and you’re sure to save a considerable amount of money in the process.
Spinning or Agitating Problems
If your agitator stops spinning or agitating, don’t panic. Many washing machine problems involving the agitator are easy to fix. The washing machine drive belt makes the agitator turn, and a loose drive belt can cause a number agitator problems. To check the drive belt you’ll have to remove the back access panel of the washing machine. Locate the drive belt, and press in on it. A drive belt that moves more than 3/4 of an inch will need to be tightened. If the belt has cracks, tears, or appears worn it will need to be changed.
Tightening the drive belt of a washing machine is easy. All you need to do is loosen the mounting nut upon the motor, and ease the motor along the mounting rail until the belt tension tightens sufficiently. Tighten the mounting nut, put the access panel back on, and your washing machine should be ready for a load of dirty clothes.
Leaking Washing Machine
If you find your washing machine has sprung a leak, if the hose is the source of the problem it’s easy to fix. Keep an eye on the washing machine while it’s filling, and pay careful attention to the hoses. If the inlet hoses aren’t leaking, keep an eye on the drain hose while the washing machine is spinning. The hose may simply be loose and require tightening.
Snags or Rips in Material
If you’re finding mysterious snags or rips in items washed in your washing machine, your washing machine tub or agitator may be to blame. Many newer washing machine tubs are made of plastic and won’t rust, but older models sometimes begin rusting around the holes and become rough. Checking for rough spots on the interior of a washing machine tub is easy. Simply put an old nylon stocking over your hand, and go over the tub. If there’s a rough spot snagging your clothes during the washing process, you’ll find it with the stocking. If you locate a rough spot inside the washing machine, you can easily sand it down with fine textured sandpaper.
Replacing the Agitator
If your agitator is obviously cracked or damaged it should be replaced as soon as possible. A cracked or damaged agitator will ruin clothing and other laundry. Don’t let the thought of changing the agitator of your washing machine intimidate you. Changing a broken agitator is easier than you might think. If your washing machine is equipt with a softener dispenser on top of the agitator, remove the dispenser, and unscrew the cap beneath it. Most people don’t realize the agitator of their washing machine has a removable cap. After removing the cap, just lift the agitator up and out. If the agitator is stubborn and won’t come out, partially fill the washing machine tub with hot water to loosen any soap or other debris that might be holding it down. If hot water doesn’t work, tap the agitator gently with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Remove the broken agitator and replace it with a new one.
Washing Machine Won’t Fill
If you turn on your washing machine and discover it never filled with water, chances are there is a clogged filter screen in either the hot or cold inlet hose. Simply turn off the hot and cold water faucets, and unscrew the hoses. Examine the filter screens and clean them if they’re dirty. Also make sure the hoses aren’t pinched and cutting off the water supply to the washing machine.
Clothes are Too Wet After Spin Cycle
Clothes that seem to be too wet after spinning may be caused by a kink or clog in the drainage hose. Examine the drainage hose for any noticeable problems, and clean out the drainage hose with a long-handled bottle brush if necessary. Long-handled bottle brushes of various sizes and lengths are available in the aquatic section of most pet stores or discount stores that sell pet supplies. The brushes designed for cleaning aquarium tubing also work well for cleaning out hoses and such. If the problem is caused by a kink in the drainage hose, try to work out the kink. If the kink has hardened and appears to be a permanent problem, the drainage hose will require replacement so your washing machine is able to drain completely and properly.
