A washing machine is undoubtedly one of the most important appliances that a household can possess. While not as glamorous as the television or refrigerator, a washing machine also needs some care and maintenance. If your washer is showing signs of damage and noticeable wear and tear, chances are your hardworking washing machine is already on its last leg.
Do you need a washing machine repaired? Is it better to replace your current washer and dryer? Continue reading to see some of the determining factors in a washing machine breakdown.
How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?
The average life expectancy of a high-quality washing machine ranges from 10–13 years, depending on the type, maintenance, and frequency of use. It’s important to note that washing machines are built differently; thus, the same washer type from two different brands will have varied lifespans.
Here are the average lifespans of different washing machine types:
|
Washing Machine Type |
Average Lifespan |
|
Budget or entry-level washing machines |
5 years |
|
Mid-range washing machines |
8 years |
|
High-end washing machines |
10-13 years |
Ultimately, top-load washers and dryers have longer lifespans than the relatively new front-load washers. However, front-load washing machines may require fewer repairs than the traditional washer design. In addition, a well-maintained washing machine will most likely last longer than one that is not regularly cleaned or checked. In this case, a well-maintained washer-dryer may last up to 15 years. Of course, it may undergo some repairs during the mentioned span of time.
Signs that You Need to Replace Your Washing Machine
Your Washing Machine Leaks Excessively
Leaks may be caused by overflowing or an untightened hose. However, washing machine leaks can also be caused by small items getting stuck or making a hole in the drum, which is a serious problem. Washer leaks may cause water damage to both your appliance and other nearby items. If you have a cracked washing machine tub, we highly recommend getting it fixed as soon as possible. If your washer is already too old, a simple repair may not be the best choice. In this case, we recommend upgrading to a new washer for your laundry requirements.
Your Washer is Too Noisy
Washing machines are meant to produce sounds when operated. However, if you notice a new set of sounds from your washing machine, it’s crucial to find out where the noise comes from. Some weird washer and dryer noises may come from your laundry arrangement. If you encounter a weird noise coming from your top-load washing machine for the first time, stop the cycle and redistribute the clothes. Remember to take precautions when inspecting your washing machine. Your floor or washing machine base is also worth checking, as some noise may come from the washer’s uneven placement.
However, if the noise doesn't come from these, then your washing machine may be encountering some motor issues that can only be repaired by a professional technician.
Your Clothes are Not Getting Properly Cleaned
Your washing machine is designed to make your laundry tasks easier and more efficient. However, a washing machine with some functional issues may not properly clean your clothes and linens as they used to.
Residues from your previous wash may cause this hassle. This may also be an effect of a clogged detergent tray or a tub that is already dirty with all the years of wash residue that are trapped inside the machine. If you notice that your clothes are not properly cleaned even after machine washing, try deep cleaning the washer to get rid of the dirt residue. If regular cleaning does not work, getting a new washer-dryer might be a better choice.
Your Washer Emits Unpleasant Odours
Unpleasant washing machine odours can be caused by dirt, detergent residues, or mould buildup inside the machine. These do not only smell bad, but may also develop unhealthy elements like bacteria that can affect the quality of your clothes and washing machine.
Your Energy Bills Drastically Increased
Increased electricity consumption is a big sign that your washer is already due for replacement. This may be caused by a broken washing machine. In this case, getting a new energy-efficient washer and dryer is a more economical choice than expensive electricity, water consumption, and repairs.
Your Current Washer is Not the Right One Anymore
Your family size and laundry needs may change over the years. If a compact top-load washer was okay for your smaller household for the past few years, you may need a bigger washing machine capacity to accommodate your additional laundry requirements.
Your Washing Machine is Already 10 Years Old
Older washers and dryers will need frequent repairs as they are more susceptible to damage. Older washing machine models cost more to repair as their parts are expensive. In this case, it’s worth investing in a new washing machine model with better performance and energy efficiency.
The Best Washing Machine Investment
When buying a new washing machine, it’s vital to check the new appliance’s capacity, its available wash settings, energy efficiency, and a myriad of other features that can help you with your laundry requirements.
Have a compact space? Try a washer-dryer combo to save more space while maximising its efficiency. Browse through Megafurniture’s collection of washers and dryers from the best washing machine brands in Singapore.