Signs That it's Time to Get a New Washing Machine
Washing machines take a lot of impact from multiple loads of laundry as well as the force caused by introducing water and spinning action to the mixture of clothes. Our laundry room appliances therefore do need to be replaced every so often, but how do you know if your washing machine is on the outs? Let's take a look at a few signs that it's time to get a new washing machine:
Noise and the mystery of the walking machine
These two signs are presented together for the fact that they can occur at the same time and be caused by the same issue. Washing machines already have some inherent noise to begin with, but excessive banging and irregular noises could mean that something's wrong. Before you call in a professional, try simply adjusting the load within the washer so that the clothes are more evenly distributed. If this doesn't help, your motor mount or drum may need to be tightened.
Making sure the machine is level can also help with your noise problem, leading us to the issue of the moving washer. If your appliance isn't level, it could be the reason why it's moving. However, a walking washer could lead to other issues down the road like leaking water outside the unit or pulling out its connections. Call in a plumbing expert to determine the best solution in this instance and whether it can be fixed.
Repairs cost more than buying new
Let's say your washing machine breaks down and you contact a professional plumber to conduct repairs. Depending on the extent of the damage, it could end up costing you a lot more to fix the machine than it would to simply buy a new one. Repairs can extend the life of your appliance and potentially save you money in the process, but if the costs are comparable, a new washing machine may be the best option.
It's showing its age
Homeowners should typically start looking into new washing machines if their appliance is over 8 years old, however, some newer models can last up to 11 years. Be sure to consult your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. It's important to note that the longer you keep the machine, the more problems are likely to appear. Some common issues can include water remaining or not filling the drum, as well as the drum not turning. Older appliances can also be more susceptible to leaks from loose connections or failing water hoses.
When the washer shuts off the water, it has a significant effect on the capabilities of the connections. The water hammer slams the valve, causing the pipe to expand to compensate for the pressure spike. This happens during each load of laundry and causes the rubber hoses to lose their flexibility over time. Eventually, they will fail and burst. When transitioning out your washing machine, it's good to replace your hoses to ensure they can handle the load.
Washing machines degrade over time, and depending on how they're used, their lifetimes may vary. Call your local plumbing expert at your local Roto-Rooter to discuss washing machine issues and other plumbing problems you may have.