Homeowners have always been responsible for taking care of their own washer and dryer. However, a new trend in apartment living is only offering a washer and dryer connection rather than supplying the actual appliances to renters. This is a great way for these complexes to save on insurance money while at the same time passing on an expensive investment to the renter. This would also make the renters liable for mechanical repairs and damage caused.
Recognize the Issues
With that in mind, you want to ensure you are always on the lookout for possible problems and fixes. You can take care of some of these issues on your own, while others will require an appliance repair technician.
No Power
This is a very common issue and not just because the plug may have come out somehow. In most cases, it will either be a tripped breaker or a blown fuse. If the breaker has been tripped, flip it completely off, then back on again. If that does not work check the fuse. It will be blackened if it is has blown. Just be sure to replace the fuse if blown with one that has the same amperage rating.
Sour Smells
As someone that has lived in apartments that have washers, I can tell you this is a very common problem in a washer that is not receiving a little TLC. They sell pods these days that can go into the washer on a monthly basis to clean out the drum. That smell is often buildup in the drum of scum and grime that has accumulated from your dirty clothes. If the treatment does not work, try adding a couple of cups of bleach on a full fill and hot water. Most times, this will eliminate the odor.
If that does not work, there could be a blockage in the drain hose. The hose could be kinked, catching extra debris, or something may have somehow become lodged in there. If this is the issue, remove the power cord from the outlet, disconnect the hose, and clean it out.
If the smell persists, you will need to call an appliance repair technician.
Bouncing Washer
A vibrating washer is funny on TV, but not so much in real life. If your washer bounces around, it is likely not level. Get your level out and check it, and if it is off, adjust the pegs on the legs of the washer until it is level.
If the washer is level and it is still bouncing around on every load, the inner drum is off-balance because something is probably loose inside the washer. If you do not know what you are doing, do not risk breaking the washer. Call your local appliance repair technician to come and take a look.
To read Part 2, click here.
