Summer in Australia means beach days, pool visits and plenty of washing, making washing machine maintenance more important than ever. From heavy beach towels and sandy clothes to frequent short wash cycles, your washing machine works overtime during the warmer months. Without the right care, this extra workload can lead to poor performance, unpleasant smells, or even breakdowns.
Here’s how to look after your washing machine over summer, and avoid unnecessary repair bills.
The Hidden Problem with Beach Towels and Sand
Beach towels are one of the toughest items for a washing machine to handle. They’re heavy, absorb large amounts of water and often carry sand deep into the drum.
Sand may seem harmless, but it can:
- Settle in the bottom of the drum
- Block filters and drain pumps
- Wear down seals and hoses
- Cause noisy operation during spin cycles
Tip: Before washing, always shake beach towels outside thoroughly. If possible, rinse them with a hose to remove excess sand before putting them in the machine.
Avoid Overloading with Heavy Summer Washes
It’s tempting to throw all your towels into one load, especially after a busy weekend. However, overloading is one of the most common causes of washing machine issues.
Overloading can:
- Strain the motor and suspension
- Prevent proper rinsing
- Cause the machine to become unbalanced
- Lead to premature wear and tear
As a general rule, the drum should never be packed tightly. Leave enough space for items to move freely, particularly when washing thick towels and bedding.
Clean Your Washing Machine Filter Regularly
Summer washing often introduces more lint, sand and debris into the machine. If your washing machine has a lint or drain filter (usually located at the front), it should be checked and cleaned every few weeks during peak use.
A blocked filter can cause:
- Water not draining properly
- Longer wash cycles
- Unusual noises
- Water leaks
Cleaning the filter is a simple task that can prevent much bigger problems.
Combat Odours with a Monthly Maintenance Wash
Frequent cold washes are great for saving energy, but they can allow detergent residue and bacteria to build up inside the machine, especially in warm weather.
Run a monthly hot wash with:
- No laundry
- A washing machine cleaner or white vinegar
- The highest temperature setting
This helps keep the drum, hoses and seals clean and fresh.
When to Call a Professional
If your washing machine starts making loud noises, vibrating excessively, leaking, or failing to drain properly, it’s time to have it checked. Continuing to use a faulty machine can cause further damage.
Blackburn Appliance Repairs provides reliable washing machine maintenance and repairs, helping local households keep their appliances running smoothly through the busy summer months.
Regular care and early repairs can extend the life of your washing machine and keep your summer laundry routine stress-free.
