Did you know your washing machine could last 15 years or more with proper care? Many washers fail early due to simple maintenance mistakes that cause unnecessary wear and tear.
Ignoring small issues—like residue buildup, overloading, or skipping routine cleanings—can shorten your washer’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs.
This guide explains practical steps to help your washer run efficiently, reduce breakdowns, and last longer.
Understand the Average Lifespan of a Washing Machine
How long your washer lasts depends on machine type, usage, and maintenance.
- Front-load washers: Typically last 10–15 years if well maintained.
- Top-load washers: Can last 12–18 years, depending on brand and care.
🔹 Manufacturer expectations vs. real-world use
Most manufacturers design washers to last 10+ years, but heavy use and poor maintenance can cut that lifespan in half.
🔹 Impact of usage frequency and load size
- A washer used daily wears out faster than one used a few times a week.
- Overloading strains the motor, drum bearings, and suspension system, leading to early breakdowns.
Why Washing Machines Fail Early
Common causes of early washer failure include:
🛑 Lint and residue buildup – Detergent and fabric softener clog internal components.
🛑 Hard water scaling – Mineral deposits reduce efficiency.
🛑 Overloading and imbalanced loads – Too much weight puts stress on internal parts.
🛑 Ignoring unusual noises or vibrations – Small issues can escalate into costly repairs.
🛑 Using the wrong detergent – HE (high-efficiency) washers require HE detergent to prevent excessive suds and residue buildup.
10 Proactive Tips to Extend Your Washer’s Life
✅ Maintenance Checklist (Quick Reference)
✔ Use HE detergent in HE washers to prevent residue buildup.
✔ Clean the washer monthly with a cleaning cycle or mild cleaner.
✔ Leave the door open after use to prevent mold.
✔ Wipe the gasket and drum regularly to avoid mildew.
✔ Check and clean the drain pump filter every 2–3 months.
✔ Avoid overloading the washer to reduce motor strain.
✔ Ensure the washer is level to prevent vibration damage.
✔ Flush the water inlet filters every 6 months.
✔ Replace washer hoses every 3–5 years to prevent leaks.
✔ Run a hot water wash occasionally to remove bacteria and soap scum.
1. Use the Right Detergent and Dosage
✅ HE detergent for high-efficiency machines – Regular detergent produces too many suds, leading to buildup.
✅ Measure detergent properly – Too much detergent causes residue and mold growth.
2. Clean the Washer Monthly
✅ Run a drum cleaning cycle – Many washers have a self-clean mode.
✅ DIY cleaning – Run a hot water cycle with vinegar or a washer cleaner to remove buildup. (Whirlpool advises minimal vinegar use to prevent seal degradation.)
✅ Clean the gasket, detergent drawer, and lint filter – Prevents mold and clogs.
3. Leave the Door Open After Use
✅ Allows airflow to reduce moisture buildup.
✅ Prevents mold growth in front-load washers (a common issue).
4. Wipe Down Gasket and Drum Regularly
✅ Removes moisture and detergent residue that cause mildew.
✅ Preserves rubber seals—dry seals are less likely to crack or leak.
5. Inspect and Clean the Drain Pump Filter
✅ Check every 2–3 months or when drainage slows.
✅ Prevents blockages that strain the pump and motor.
6. Avoid Overloading the Washer
✅ Balance loads to reduce strain on the drum, motor, and suspension system.
✅ Prevents premature bearing failure, which is costly to repair.
7. Use Washer Feet to Level the Machine
✅ Reduces vibration and prevents internal wear.
✅ Keeps the washer stable—uneven machines cause damage over time.
8. Flush the Water Inlet Filters Periodically
✅ Removes sediment and mineral buildup that slow water flow.
✅ Prevents low water pressure issues.
9. Check and Replace Hoses Every 3–5 Years
✅ Old hoses can crack or burst, leading to costly water damage.
✅ Use braided steel hoses for durability.
10. Run Hot Water Washes Occasionally
✅ Removes soap scum and bacteria buildup inside the machine.
✅ Ideal for towels, bedding, and sanitizing cycles.
Signs It’s Time for Maintenance (Before It Breaks)
Call a professional if you notice:
🚨 Excessive noise or shaking – Could indicate loose parts or an unbalanced drum.
🚨 Slow drainage – A sign of a clogged drain pump filter or drain hose.
🚨 Foul odors even after cleaning – Indicates hidden mold or bacterial buildup.
🚨 Skipped spin cycles – May be due to an overloaded machine or motor issue.
🚨 Leaking from the bottom or hose areas – Hoses or seals may need replacement.
When to Call a Professional
Some washer problems require expert repair:
🔧 Electrical or motor failure – DIY fixes can be dangerous.
🔧 Persistent fault codes – May indicate a major issue with the control board.
🔧 Drum bearings or suspension replacement – If the drum makes loud grinding noises, it may need professional repair.
If your washer isn’t working properly, Appliance Repair Southern California can diagnose and fix the issue before it gets worse.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my washing machine is running efficiently?
A well-running washer should fully drain, spin smoothly, and have no unusual vibrations or sounds. If cycles take longer than normal, efficiency may be decreasing.
2. What happens if I never clean my washing machine?
Over time, soap scum, mold, and bacteria build up, leading to musty smells, reduced efficiency, and potential clogs in drain systems.
3. Are washer vibrations normal?
Mild vibrations are normal, but excessive shaking may mean the washer is unlevel or overloaded.
4. Should I use fabric softener in my washer?
Fabric softeners can cause buildup in HE washers, leading to mold and residue. Use vinegar as an alternative or switch to a fabric softener dispenser.
5. Can I use bleach for washer cleaning instead of vinegar?
Yes, but use it sparingly. Bleach kills bacteria but can damage rubber seals if overused. Stick to washer-specific cleaning products for the best results.
Eric
Eric is the founder and lead repair expert at Appliance Repair Southern California. With 17+ years of experience, he has built a reputation for providing fast, reliable, and high-quality repair services across Southern California. His expertise covers a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines. Eric is committed to exceptional customer service and ensuring every repair is done right the first time. Under his leadership, Appliance Repair Southern California continues to be a trusted name in the industry.
