7 Essential Tips to Prevent Breakdowns and Extend Its Lifespan
A washing machine is one of the most frequently used appliances in any home. Whether you own a top-load or front-load washer, proper usage and routine maintenance play a major role in preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.
Based on real service experience, most washing machine issues are caused by overloading, improper detergent use, and lack of maintenance. Below are 7 proven washing machine tips that help extend the life of your appliance and improve performance.
1. Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine
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Overloading is the leading cause of washer failures. Too much laundry puts excessive strain on the motor, transmission, suspension, and bearings.
Best practices:
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Front-load washers: leave space for your hand at the top of the drum
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Top-load washers: do not load above the lower rim of the drum
Over time, overloading leads to loud noise, poor spin cycles, and internal mechanical damage.
2. Use the Correct Amount of Detergent
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Using more detergent than recommended creates excess foam. This prevents proper rinsing and can damage internal components such as pumps, sensors, and hoses.
Best practices:
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Use HE detergent for high-efficiency washers
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Follow manufacturer dosage guidelines
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Reduce detergent amounts if you have soft water
3. Clean the Washing Machine Drain Pump Filter
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The drain pump filter traps debris like coins, lint, hair, and small objects. A clogged filter can cause slow draining, leaks, or error codes.
Maintenance tip:
Clean the drain pump filter every 3–6 months or whenever draining becomes slow.
4. Perform Regular Washing Machine Maintenance
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Monthly maintenance helps prevent mold, odors, and detergent buildup.
Recommended steps:
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Run an empty hot wash cycle once a month
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Use a washer cleaner or white vinegar
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Wipe the door gasket after use
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Leave the washer door slightly open between cycles
5. Balance Laundry Loads Properly
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Unbalanced loads cause excessive vibration and damage suspension components, especially in top-load washers.
Tip:
When washing bulky items like blankets or jackets, add a few smaller items to help balance the load.
6. Check Pockets Before Washing
Keyword focus: washing machine pump clogged, washer making noise
Small objects left in pockets often damage drain pumps or hoses.
Common problem items:
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Coins
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Screws
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Keys
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Hairpins
Always empty pockets before loading laundry.
7. Pay Attention to Early Warning Signs
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Early symptoms usually indicate minor issues that are easy to fix.
Warning signs include:
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Unusual noise
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Strong vibration
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Slow draining
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Persistent odors
Ignoring these signs often leads to major component failure.
When to Call a Professional Washing Machine Repair Service in San Diego
If your washing machine continues to show issues despite proper use and regular maintenance, professional diagnosis can help prevent further damage and costly repairs.
ALFA Appliances provides trusted washing machine repair services in San Diego and surrounding areas, working with both top-load and front-load washers from all major brands.
🔧 Need expert help?
If your washer is making noise, shaking, not spinning, or not draining properly, contact ALFA Appliances for professional inspection and honest recommendations.
Early service can save you time, money, and extend the life of your washing machine.
