A broken washing machine is a major problem. As soon as something goes wrong, a supernatural force will compel your kids to run to the nearest pile of dirt and play for hours, burying you under Mt. Washmore with no way to escape. Here’s how you can get your machine back into operation and begin conquering that pile of dirty garments.
Make A Proper Diagnosis
The first thing to remember is that you don’t necessarily need a new washing machine. You may not even need to pay someone to do the repairs. Like a car with a dead battery, a washing machine with one simple problem is unusable but easy to repair. The most important thing is to identify the issue correctly so that you don’t waste time and money fixing what ain’t broke.
There are plenty of online sources for troubleshooting your washing machine, many of which include photos and videos. One tip, though: Check at least two different sources. This may come as a shock, but not everybody who posts advice on the internet knows what they’re talking about.
Locate a Parts Source
Some washer breakdowns can be corrected with adjustments, but more than likely you’ll need some parts to repair a washing machine. This can get tricky because there are countless makes and models out there, each with dozens of components to sort through.
This could end up being the most time-consuming part of the repair, but it’s usually easier if you can remove the troublesome part to view part numbers and take measurements. If you’re torn between two different models, buy both if the store’s return policy permits. Once you get the real part in your hand, you’ll be able to compare it to the old one. Just don’t install it if you aren’t sure it will fit. This could make it impossible to return it.
Install Properly and Carefully
Now it’s time to stop stalling and start installing. Gather all your information, including paperwork included with your parts to repair a washing machine, guides you’ve found online, and your washer’s owner’s manual. If you’ve followed consumer tradition and lost the manual, you can probably find one online. It’s worth the effort because it may include an exploded diagram of your washer, reducing the odds that your brain will explode.
You’ll also need the appropriate tools for installation. Do this right. If you only have adjustable wrenches, leave them in the toolbox and ask a grownup if you can borrow real crescent wrenches or sockets. If you strip just one nut, the whole project could be wrecked, and Mt. Washmore may erupt. Follow the installation steps carefully, reassemble your washer, and try it out.
An out-of-commission washing machine is a huge hassle. Repairing it yourself can save a lot of time and money, but you have to do it right. That means getting the correct diagnosis, buying the right parts, and installing them correctly. If you’ll follow this plan, you’ll rinse away your problems much faster.