6 Signs You Need a New Washing Machine

Washing your clothes is second nature, right next to showering and eating. Whether you’re washing a load of laundry for yourself or piles of dirty clothes for a large family, chances are your washing machine is one of the more important appliances in your household. 

According to a 2016 study by Nielsen, 67% of the world’s population says they do laundry at least twice a week and 31% claim they do laundry every day. When it comes to using a washing machine as opposed to dry cleaning or washing by hand, Americans come in a close second to Europeans, with 82% of the population using washing machines. 

With millions of spin cycles happening every day across America, it shouldn’t be surprising that even the most high-end washing machines will break down eventually. But how do you know when your washing machine is fed up and can’t manage to wash another dirty dish towel?

When Is It Time to Buy a New Washing Machine? 

Between juggling work, family, and personal time, you’re likely on autopilot when it’s time to do the laundry. While there are some DIY fixes that may take care of some common washing machine anomalies, if these problems persist, it may be time to call a repair technician or admit that your washer needs to be replaced. Here are 6 signs you need a new washing machine. 

1. Noisy Washing Machine

There are two ways this scenario can go. We’ll start with the easy fix. If you have noticed that your washing machine is shaking and making a racket, it could be that your washing machine is simply not positioned properly on a level surface. You can find the corner that isn’t level by pushing on either side of the machine and seeing where it rocks back and forth. 

Most washing machines have adjustable legs that can be twisted to either make them shorter or longer. If you don’t see adjustable legs on your washer, try the old ‘coaster under the table leg trick’. Place a folded up piece of cardboard or anything stiff under the corner of your washer that isn’t adequately reaching the floor. Make the adjustments as needed and see if that stops the washer from shaking during a cycle. 

Now, if leveling the washing machine doesn’t remedy its noisy antics, it may be that your washing machine has a more serious problem. These mechanical issues include worn belts and pulleys, an uneven drum, or a worn clutch and transmission. At that point, you’ll need to weigh the costs of repairs with replacing the unit entirely. 

2. Water Leaking

Just like the case of the wobbly washer, some leaks can be easily fixed and others could be a sign that it is time to buy a new washing machine. One of the most common reasons that your washer is leaking is due to a broken or worn-out hose. Take a look at the back of your washing machine. There should be two hoses, one for cold water and one for hot water. Both hoses run from the washing machine to a water source. Over time, these hoses can rupture or get cracks in the seams. If this is the case, then take a sigh of relief, because washing machine hoses are fairly cheap and easy to replace. 

There are also a series of hoses, seals, and fixtures within the washing machine itself that might need to be tightened or repaired. This can be affordably accomplished by contacting a local washing machine repair technician. And lastly, on the more serious side of washing machine leaks, is a broken or cracked washer tub. This would be a reason to start shopping for a new washing machine. 

3. Old Washing Machine

The typical lifespan of your average washing machine is between 8-11 years. If your washing machine is simply old and has never been repaired or replaced, you’ll need to start weighing your options. It may be less costly over time to squirrel away all that money you would put towards repairs and invest in a new, more efficient washing machine. Modern washing machines will come with a lengthy warranty and use less water. An energy-efficient washing machine means you’ll save more money on your utility bill over time. New washing machines also come equipped with loads of high-tech options to make doing the laundry a more pleasurable experience. 

4. Washing Machine Shakes & Moves When in Use

A sleepwalking washer is a reason for concern, unfortunately. Even if it shakes a bit during the spin cycle, it doesn’t mean it should be going for a stroll across your laundry room. There are a couple of things you can do to help stop it from shaking uncontrollably. As previously stated, check to see the washing machine is on level ground and the legs are all firmly planted on a flat surface. You can also check to see that the drum of the washer is adjusted so it isn’t tilted during a cycle. If none of those simple fixes help the problem, it is probably safe to say you need to buy a new washing machine. 

5. The Washing Machine Drum Doesn’t Fill With Water

If your washing machine isn’t filling up with water or only filling up halfway, it may be due to a variety of reasons. These include a malfunctioning chip that is tricking the washer into delaying a complete cycle, a twisted belt, hose and faucet issues, or water intake and filter problems. It could even be a malfunctioning lid switch. You can try to take a look at the belts to see if you can easily correct the problem, but if it is a lid switch you’ll likely need to contact a professional appliance repair technician. 

6. You Notice a Bad Smell

A foul smell coming from your washing machine is not a pleasant problem to encounter. And while the smell may be annoying, it actually could be an indicator that mold and mildew are present in the machine. Older front-load washing machines are especially prone to mold and mildew and can even wind up ruining your clothes if the problem is left untreated. The problem is so pervasive that both Whirlpool and Sears had to settle class-action lawsuits for washing machines that were manufactured between 2001-2010. If you suspect that your washing machine has mold growing inside, it is a health hazard and you should immediately replace your washing machine. 

Is Your Washing Machine Broken? Time to Contact a Professional

If you are unable to fix your washing machine on your own with the above troubleshooting measures, it may be time to call a licensed washing machine repair technician. Wilshire Refrigeration is trained and certified to work on a variety of appliances. We can help you resolve any issue you may be having with your washer. 

In light of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Wilshire Refrigeration is abiding by all of the CDC recommendations so that we can continue to provide the high-quality service our clients are used to. We have stepped up our safeguards. All of our Sub-Zero and Asko appliance repair technicians are fully outfitted in the appropriate preventative gear and are closely monitored for any symptoms of the coronavirus. Wilshire Refrigeration will go above and beyond to ensure that your environment is left unaffected when we come to service your appliances. 

Wilshire Refrigeration is the only factory certified service provider for Wolf Appliances in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. If you need to get your Sub-Zero or Asko appliance serviced, we’re the people to call, at 800.427.3653.