Washers and dryers are part of our lives, necessities that we use on a regular basis. They are also expensive to repair if they should break down. Replacing them can be extremely expensive. Luckily, there are ways to extend the life of your washer and dryer.

No Overloading Allowed

Any washer and dryer will only hold a certain amount of clothes. The tub should be filled loosely with clothes, allowing them to still move freely when the agitator begins working. When the clothes are packed into the washer too tightly, a greater strain is placed on the agitator, causing premature wear. The dryer should also not be overloaded as too many clothes can cause the machine to take longer to dry, creating undue strain on the motor.

Regular Cleaning is Important

Lint is the enemy of your washer and your dryer, and it should be cleaned out regularly. The lid of a top loading washer can gather lint, making it harder to open and close. Machines that have a center cup for fabric softener can get gummed up in that area from the softener residue. Wipe the lid down with a soft cloth and give the fabric softener cup an occasional rinse. Running an empty machine with a full cup of bleach and hot water will also help to clear away any residue and lint.

It is especially important that the dryer is cleaned regularly. Lint traps that are left filled with lint quickly become fire hazards, as well as shortening your machine's life. The lint trap should be cleaned after every single use. The dryer should never be run if the lint trap is not in place. The screen filter itself should be washed every two to three months to remove residue from dryer sheets. Finally, if you every see dust coming out of your dryer, the venting system should be taken apart and thoroughly vacuumed.

Front Loading Machines

Front loading machines require some special care. About once a month, the gasket around the globe on the door should be rubbed down gently with a small dot of dish washing liquid every month. This will keep the seal in good condition. Also, when the machine is not in use, the door should be left ajar. This will allow the primary seal to dry out and prevent odors from forming.

With proper care, your washer and dryer can last for many years. This will save you money and as well as the hassle of hunting for a new machine. The maintenance is simple to do, and the payoff is well worth the small amount of extra time.