Although they have the same purpose, front load washers have numerous pros in comparison to top load washers, therefore, they are a much more often choice. These types of washers usually have very fine controls over the temperature settings, they can handle large washing loads, and they can have smart functionality allowing control via an app on your phone. But, like any complex appliance, a front loader does require a certain amount of maintenance to ensure performance, efficiency, and a long operating life. Take a look at a few of our tips for providing the best performance of your front load washing machine.
Detergent Choices
High efficiency detergents are mostly advised by the manufacturers for the front load washers to work properly and efficiently. If you use a standard detergent, you may notice more soap suds, and this will leave a thin film on the surfaces of your drum and hoses. This may seem like a minor problem, but it actually promotes the growth of mold in your washer. This residue can also damage the mechanical or electronic components in your machine. If you have not been using a detergent specifically designed for your high efficiency front load washer, you may find that your warranty is void. Remember that a front load washer is designed to use less water and less detergent. If you add too much detergent, there isn’t any excess water to dissolve the soap, and this creates the residue. Look for a detergent marked as “High Efficiency” or “HE” and stick to the recommended amounts. Therefore, you will not get a better clean as a result if you put more detergent.
Open the Machine
One thing that is highly advised is to remove the clothes from the washer as soon as it's done with the cycle. Then keep the door slightly ajar to allow air to circulate inside the drum. If a front load washer is left closed, mold and mildew can grow, and this will affect your future washing loads. If you do leave your damp items in the machine, you will notice that they smell musty. It’s likely that you will need to wash those items a second time, and that musty odor can be hard to remove. Cleaning your washer with vinegar will kill the mildew if it starts to smell. Make sure to run an empty cycle after cleaning it.
Levelling the Washer
The reason leveling is needed is because front load units rotate much faster than top load ones. This can cause the washer to vibrate, and it is essential to level the machine correctly to minimize lateral movement. This is especially true if you’re washing a larger or heavier load. Ensure that your washer is positioned on a flat surface, use a level to gauge how flat it is, and adjust the leveling feet as required. You can run a few empty cycles to make sure your washing machine is more stable, as you finish leveling.
Programming
For various reasons some people don't like to program their appliances, but this could actually be quite a convenience. Washing can be a frustrating task, and anything that can make it more efficient should be practiced. So, if you always wash your whites on a higher temperature, set that program as a favorite and then can call it up as needed. This will eliminate any mistakes that you may make under pressure when trying to program a wash on the fly. Generally, as this is our almost daily task, it's a good thing to implement something new to make it more easy and efficient.
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