How long is the life of a washing machine and what does it depend on?
It is essential to know how long your washing machine can last. But it is also important to maintain your machine regularly to extend its life. A washing machine lasts between 10 and 14 years, depending on the type, quality and frequency of use. If you wash several times a week, your machine will probably have a normal long life than appliances used several times a day.
There are two main types of washing machines: front-loading and top-loading. It is a myth that some last longer than others. The truth is that the same components are used in the assembly, such as the motor, electronics, etc. The fact that there are two bearings in top-loading washing machines is a marketing trick. Not the most important thing is that the bearings have other things that break much earlier. Front-loading washing machines are more popular, having been on the market relatively recently. At the same time, the second type of appliances are the oldest and are not equipped with so many functions. Top-loading washing machines are used for narrow spaces and are not so popular, in fact, the manufacturer knows that appliances for hard-to-reach places are in demand and the customer is willing to pay enough to have it. From there, the price of the appliance and the parts are determined. The truth is that front-loading appliances are massive and it is normal for the percentage of broken ones to be higher. If 90% of the appliances are front-loading, it is normal for there to be more broken ones.
Method of use
The more you use it, the more it wears out. If you load your washing machine several times a week, your machine is unlikely to last as long as if you only do it once.
Laundry size
Overloading the machine with more clothes can wear out the motor and the most likely reason is to break the drum. There is a myth that if you run it 3 times a day with 2 clothes inside, it will not be damaged. This is like when people find it easier to walk 2 km without a backpack on their back than with a full one. This inevitably leads to less repairs and a longer life of the washing machine. On the other hand, not loading enough laundry per cycle is extremely inefficient, due to the waste of detergent, water and energy. You can find instructions on the correct load size in your washing machine's user manual.
Cleaning and maintenance
If you maintain your machine regularly, it can last longer. Perform frequent maintenance on your washing machine. Wipe it down and clean it after each use. Watch for leaks or drainage problems. Also, when placing the machine, make sure it is leveled correctly. This will certainly have a positive effect on its longer service life, if the vibration is small during the spin cycle, there is no load on the drum, shock absorbers, and also the risk of rubbing wires on the appliance is high with high vibration.
Clean your washing machine at least once every three months to keep it running efficiently. It is essential to do this regularly to avoid the appearance of mold and mildew. You should also check your washing machine for problems at least once a year.
Preventing overload
Putting too much laundry in the washing machine can cause an imbalance in the spin cycle and damage the motor. Instead, fill the drum to about 70% of its capacity. If you hear unusual sounds while the machine is running, stop the program. Redistribute the laundry evenly or remove some items.
Check the hoses
Check the soft connections of the washing machine at least once a year for cracks, bulges and leaks.
Remove the laundry from the drum after the cycle is finished.
Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine for more than 24 hours after the cycle is complete will cause mold and mildew to grow. Remove them as soon as the cycle is finished and leave the door open to let the drum dry between washes.
Limit your use of detergent
Use only the recommended amount for your machine to avoid deposits on the drum and inside walls. It is difficult for the appliance to rinse clothes if too much detergent is added. This leads to deposits on the crossbar inside the appliance and wear and tear of the machine over time.
Factors for a longer washing machine life:
Regular maintenance and prevention |
DO NOT OVERLOAD |
Follow the instructions for laundry size |
