Laundry Room Maintenance for Busy Homeowners

Date: September 25, 2014

Keeping your appliances running is a necessity for busy homeowners, and few appliances endure more wear and tear than your clothes washer and dryer. To keep your washer and dryer workhorses in tip top shape, you may want to consider the following maintenance tips:

Washer

• Update your hoses - If your washing machine still has old rubber hoses, it's time for an update. Washer hoses wear out over time and can result in leaks, mold or water damage. Braided metal hoses last much longer, and you can install them all by yourself. They might cost a little bit more, but at $8 per hose, who's counting?
• Keep it level - Take some time to ensure that your washing machine is completely level. If your machine is rattling and shaking more than seems necessary, something is probably off. Take a level and use it on all four sides. If you find a side that is off, adjust the legs at the bottom with a wrench.
• Clean it out - If your washing machine has an odor, you should take the time to wash it out. This can be done by running an empty cycle with bleach or a natural cleaner and then ensuring that the inside is completely dry.

Dryer

• Clear the lint filter - Far too many people still neglect to clear the lint filter before doing a load of laundry. Not only does leaving the lint in the filter cause your dryer to work less efficiently, it also poses a significant fire hazard.
• Clean the exhaust pipe - Less frequently, but still a few times a year, it is important to clean out the exhaust pipe, as this also fills up with lint. If left unattended for too long, this can pose the same problems as a full lint filter. Get a long, flexible dryer vent brush to clear this out.
• Inspect the pipe - Hot air is constantly running through your dryer exhaust pipe when the dryer is running, so it is important that this air can quickly escape to the outside. Regularly ensure that there are no crimps or unnecessary bends in the exhaust pipe. If you still have an old vinyl exhaust pipe, consider upgrading to metal ductwork to reduce the risk of fire.

Keeping your washer and dryer working is easy, but if you neglect this work you may soon find yourself with an expensive repair bill. Remember not to overload your washer or dryer, as repeatedly doing so can significantly reduce its lifespan. If you are worried about the high cost of repairing or replacing an appliance, consider investing in an HMS® Home Warranty. A home warranty will reduce your liability and help protect your household budget against unexpected repair costs.

HMS Home Warranty is an industry leader with over 30 years of creating success for clients and providing peace of mind for customers.  To learn more click www.hmsnational.com.