Don't Let Your Front Load Fail You! Front Load Washer 101 And Maintenance Tips
Washing machines and dryers offer efficient cleaning of your clothes and linens without a great deal of effort on your part. With various designs, colors, and sizes available, finding the best appliance for your laundering needs can be challenging. However, front load washing machines are becoming favorites due to their conservative nature and sleek designs. If you have a front load washer, be sure it stands the test of time by using this informative guide.
Front Load 101
As an appliance owner, you may first notice the modern, open front of a front load washing machine. While appealing, the appliance's design is actually very beneficial.
Most washers contain a bulky agitator to spin and turn laundry during the wash cycle. The agitator may seem like an essential part of your washing machine, but the design utilizes a larger amount of energy and water. In addition, the agitator wears down fabrics quickly due to the aggressive washing.
To wash in a more eco-friendly and gentle manner, manufacturers designed front load washing machines without agitators in the tub's center. Each wash is not only gentle on your laundry, but requires less energy and water. When saving an estimated $100 savings in energy costs and 6390 gallons of water each year, it is easy to see the appeal of a front load washer.
General Cleaning
Washing machines clean your clothes, shoes, and linens, but they still require periodic maintenance to ensure they remain clean and in good condition.
If you wash a load each day, wipe down the interior of your washing machine afterwards. Using a microfiber cloth after each load to dry off leftover water will reduce your risk of rust or potential mold.
Every other week, consider running an empty hot water cycle to clean and sanitize your front load washer. After the cycle is complete, use a microfiber cloth to dry out the interior tub.
Detailed Cleaning
The drain of your front load washer has a filter that collects dirt and debris during each wash cycle. This filter can quickly clog up and create an unappealing odor inside the tub. Without cleaning the filter, the odor will eventually permeate your laundry.
Every few months, locate the filter at the bottom of the washer. Pull the filter from the drain pump and soak in a sink filled with hot water. Be sure it dries completely before reinstalling.
Due to the design of the front load washer, moisture can easily build up under the door seal. Every few weeks, inspect the seal for signs of buildup or for foul odors. If you notice dark green or brown patches around your door's seal, you have mold and mildew. Combine 2 cups of white vinegar and a cup of hot water in a spray bottle to naturally remove the mold and mildew.
Spray around your door seal and allow it to rest for 30 minutes. Then, wipe away excess with a damp rag. Lastly, run an empty load using your hot water cycle, but add 1 cup of white vinegar to sanitize the interior tub, door, and drain line.
The expense of a front load washing machine is a smart purchase. Using this guide, you can maintain your front load washer to protect your investment. Contact a local repair service if you have problems.