To protect your washer and dryer, especially during a move or for long-term longevity, meticulous preparation and regular maintenance are key.
Protecting Your Washer and Dryer During a Move
Moving these heavy appliances requires careful steps to prevent damage to the machines themselves and your property.
Preparing Your Appliances for Transport
Before you even think about moving, ensure your washer and dryer are properly prepared.
- Disconnect and Drain:
- Washer: Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hot and cold water hoses, and drain any residual water from both the hoses and the machine. It's also crucial to drain the internal pump filter.
- Dryer: Unplug the power cord (electric dryer) or turn off the gas supply and disconnect the gas line (gas dryer). Disconnect the exhaust vent.
- Clean Thoroughly: Remove any lint from the dryer's lint trap and clean out the washer's detergent dispenser.
- Secure Internal Components:
- Washer: Install the original shipping bolts or a transit kit. These prevent the drum from moving excessively and damaging the internal components during transit. If you don't have them, consider using sturdy towels or blankets to stabilize the drum.
- Dryer: While dryers don't have shipping bolts, ensure any internal racks or delicate parts are removed or secured.
Safeguarding Against Physical Damage
Once prepared, focus on shielding the exterior from dings, scratches, and other impacts.
- Secure Doors: Tape the doors of both the washer and dryer shut. This is crucial to prevent them from swinging open during the move, which could lead to them getting dinged, scratched, or even breaking off.
- Wrap Machines in Heavy Blankets: Wrap the washer and dryer thoroughly in heavy moving blankets, furniture pads, or sturdy cardboard. This provides a protective barrier against impacts, dings, and scratches that can occur when navigating tight spaces or during transport in a moving truck.
- Use Proper Moving Equipment: Utilize appliance dollies with straps to move the machines safely. This prevents strain on your back and minimizes the risk of dropping or mishandling the appliances.
- Position Correctly in Transit: Load the appliances securely in the moving truck, ensuring they are upright and braced to prevent shifting. Use additional straps or ropes to tie them down.
Here's a quick checklist for moving:
| Task | Washer | Dryer |
|---|---|---|
| Disconnect | Water hoses, power | Power/gas line, vent |
| Drain | All water from hoses and pump filter | N/A |
| Secure Internal | Shipping bolts/transit kit | N/A (ensure no loose parts) |
| Secure Doors | Tape shut | Tape shut |
| Protect Exterior | Heavy blankets, furniture pads | Heavy blankets, furniture pads |
| Transport Equipment | Appliance dolly, straps | Appliance dolly, straps |
Protecting Your Washer and Dryer for Long-Term Longevity
Beyond moving, consistent care and maintenance are vital for extending the lifespan and ensuring the efficient operation of your appliances.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Preventative cleaning can ward off common issues like mold, odors, and reduced efficiency.
- Clean the Washer:
- Run a Cleaning Cycle: Regularly run a hot wash cycle with a specialized washer cleaner, white vinegar, or baking soda to eliminate detergent residue and mildew. Check your user manual for specific instructions. Learn more about cleaning your washing machine.
- Wipe Down Gaskets/Dispenser: After each wash, wipe down the rubber gasket around the door opening to prevent mold and mildew growth. Clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers frequently.
- Leave Door Ajar: After use, leave the washer door slightly ajar to allow the interior to air dry, preventing musty odors.
- Clean the Dryer:
- Lint Trap: Clean the lint trap after every load to maintain efficiency and prevent fire hazards.
- Vent System: Periodically clean the dryer vent ductwork from the back of the dryer to the exterior vent. This prevents lint buildup, which can restrict airflow, increase drying time, and pose a significant fire risk. Energy.gov offers excellent tips.
- Drum Wipe Down: Occasionally wipe the inside of the dryer drum with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Optimal Usage Practices
Using your appliances correctly minimizes wear and tear.
- Avoid Overloading: Overloading puts excessive strain on the motor, drum, and other components of both the washer and dryer, leading to premature wear.
- Use Appropriate Settings and Detergent: Always follow garment care labels and use the correct wash/dry cycles and detergent amounts. Too much detergent can lead to residue buildup.
- Level Appliances: Ensure both your washer and dryer are perfectly level. Unbalanced appliances can vibrate excessively, causing noise, damage to internal components, and even walking across the floor. Check out how to level a washing machine for guidance.
- Check Hoses: Periodically inspect the water inlet hoses on your washing machine for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Replace them every 3-5 years, or immediately if any damage is visible, to prevent catastrophic water damage.
By adhering to these protective measures, you can ensure your washer and dryer remain in excellent condition, serving your laundry needs reliably for years to come.
