7 Common Washing Machine Problems

There is famous saying that reads, ‘Cleanliness is next to Godliness’, often used to encourage people to stay clean and tidy at all times. Everyone has a moral duty to be clean and presentable and this has been made relatively easy with the advent of technology which has seen washing machines replacing the traditional strenuous way of washing clothes using hands meaning there is no excuse to be dirty anymore. Washing clothes with hands has become absolute and an outdated practice with no space in the modern world.

 Washing machines play an important part in enhancing the quality of life and can be regarded as essential appliances which every household cannot do without. Premised on this little background it becomes increasingly important to know everything about washing machines, their benefits, faults, types and this is what this article aims to do. Keep reading to learn everything about washing machines.

WHAT IS A WASHING MACHINE?

A washing machine is an electronic home appliance used to wash laundry without putting in any physical effort. It works by agitating clothes in a soapy suds and water to remove any dirt and stains before spinning to drain the water after the cycle. To complete this activity the washing has several parts which include;

• An inner drum: -This is where clothes are put in preparation to be washed. The drum has lots of punched holes which allow water to come in and wash the clothes.
•  Paddles: – These are ridges that lay on the edge of the drum and help move your clothes around while being washed.
• Agitator: -Commonly found in top load washing machines and help turn around the clothes in the soapy water.
•  Thermostat and heating element: – The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water and the heating element like its name suggests, heats up the water to the specified temperature.
• Pump: -The pump removes the water from the drum after washing.
• Programmer: – This can be said to be the brain of a washing if such a thing existed. It controls all the steps of the washing machine when from washing to rinsing and spin drying.
• Pipes and valves: – These allow the water in and out of the washer.

These are the basic components that constitute a washing machine and now let’s proceed to take a look at the various types of washing machines in existence.

TYPES OF WASHING MACHINES

There are two main types of washing machines, namely the front load and top load.

Front load washing machine

Front-load washers work by filling the bottom of the inner tub with a small amount of water and using the rotation of the tub and gravity to move the clothes through the water. The rotation action is similar to the tumbling action found inside clothes driers. The side paddles on the inside drum lift the clothes and move them in and out of the water. This provides the mechanical action (scrubbing) needed to remove soil from fabric.

Top Load washing machine

The heart of top load washing machine is the vertically aligned drum. Clothes are loaded and unloaded via a door on the top. During the wash cycle, water is added to float clothes, which are then moved about by the agitator. This is a very different washing action to front loaders which use gravity and a tumbling action to wash.

Both types of washing machines serve the same purpose so why the need to have two distinct types and which one is better.

Front load vs. top load washers

Front load washing machines are considered superior at cleaning clothes with less water and less wear on fabrics though they are more expensive than top load washers. However top load washing machines are easy on the back, clean faster and are slightly more ergonomic, so if the deciding factor when purchasing a washing machine is monetary then the top loader will win but if its efficiency then the front load wins.

In case you are having difficulty making a choice to purchase a washing and need expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact Isocool pty Ltd to shed more light on washing machines.

11 BENEFITS OF WASHING MACHINES

Washing with hands was and still is a very strenuous exercise which proves challenging, in some cases people even go on to outsource washing duties as they find it cumbersome to do on their own. Luckily with the coming of washing machines all these problems are now a thing of the past. Washing machines are no longer a luxury but a necessity for every home offering a wide range of benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits offered by washing machines.

• Washing machines save time when compared to hand washing. For an automated washer, you just need to put clothes, detergent, set the cycle and start. The rest will be done automatically.
• Washing machines that come with drying option not only wash but also dry clothes meaning there is no need to take out the washing to dry and even on rainy days or when there is bad weather you have no need to worry about wet clothes.
• Washing machines come in different sizes and shapes hence you can pick one according to your requirements. For instance if you live in an apartment where space is enough, you can prefer a big machine with various features and if not you can settle for a smaller washing machine.
•  Washing machines wash all types of fabric from clothes to all household linen. They can wash the giant queen size blanket and the small towel with the same precision meaning you don’t have to worry as they cover all types of fabrics.
• You get modern washing machines in compact and portable design. So, you can get convenience while you travel. Moreover, you can use them in dorms, recreation vehicles or camping.
• A washing machine can do its jobs successfully years after years without maintenance or with the least maintenances. That means you remain hassle-free for a longer time.
• There are various types of washing machines at different price ranges. So, you can pick one according to your budget.
• While a washing machine does its jobs you can do your other household tasks at this time.
• In modern washers, you have the option to schedule a wash for a later time.
• Some washers are Bixby or Alexa supported. So, you can control them using your Smartphone even from your office.
• Most of the Washing machines are easy to use control with digital display which means even a child is capable of operating them.

It’s important to have a functional washing machine at all times which is why you should always be on the lookout for signs of a broken down washing machine and its associated symptoms. There are several common washing machine problems to look out for and let’s take a look them one by one.

7 COMMON WASHING MACHINE PROBLEMS

Washing machine not starting

There are many problems that may cause a washing machine to not start. So, start with checking the main power switch for loose connections, power socket not working, if the fuse is okay etc. If this doesn’t help, check the door lock is working fine if you have a front load washing machine. In some cases, the main power switch or the control module (PCB) of the washing machine stops working. If don’t have prior experience in working with live wires and high voltages, call a repair professional to examine the washing machine. In Johannesburg contact Isocool pty Ltd professionals available 24/7.

Washing machine is noisy

Objects trapped in between the outer tub and drum can also be the cause of noise, things like coins and debris are extremely common to be retrieved from around the heater between the drum and they can cause damage to the machine and any clothing in it. Make sure you clear out all the pockets of cloths before putting them in the machine.

With time the bearings of the washing machine also starts to degrade and become faulty causing loud noise while rotating. Operating a washing machine with faulty bearing can cause fatal damage.

Contact Isocool pty Ltd professional to come and make an assessment on whether the bearings need to be lubricated or completely replaced.

Excessive vibrations during operation

The most common reason for this is an unbalanced tub or the whole washing machine. Make sure the washing machine is placed on a completely horizontal surface. If not, get a stand/trolley with adjustable screws beneath. In some cases, the tub gets unbalanced due to wear and tear of the suspension system. Make sure you don’t overload the machine with cloths to prevent degradation of the suspension mechanism.

Washing machine not draining properly

In this case, the drain pump is faulty or blocked. Blockage in the pump can happen due to accumulation of cloth fibers and dirt. Simply cleaning up the pump and the connected hose will solve the problem. It is recommended to hire a repair professional for this task as it will require dismantling the pump assembly. Contact Isocool pty Ltd to carry out the repair anytime.

Washing machine over-filling or under-filling

Most likely the pressure switch is not operating as intended, this can have a number of causes, either the switch is faulty, there is a hole in the pressure pipe or it has come off or the most common reason is the pressure chamber is blocked. To check the switch you have to blow into it and listen for one or more clicks if you hear them it’s fine, a close inspection of the hose should tell if it is OK or not, whereas the chamber has to be removed and washed out to clear it. If you have attached a filter in the water intake pipe, make sure the filter mesh is clean.

Washing machine not spinning

The spinning mechanism and drainage system are both connected. So if the drainage doesn’t work then the machine will not spin. The pump filter may be blocked or the hose from the drum going to the pump may be blocked. The motor’s carbon brushes may be warn-out, if the motor does not have brushes then there is a chance that the motor capacitor has failed. There can also be a case where belt from the motor to the drum may be snapped or has come off.

Water leaking from soap drawer

There are many possible reasons for this problem. Water pressure is too strong, build-up of undissolved detergent, blocked drain pipe, over-filling, too many suds and surge in power supply (surge can cause the motor to spin out of control). Rectifying this problem is fairly simple takes few minutes, but requires the know-how of a washing machine technician.

How do you diagnose washing problems?

The honest truth is you don’t. Modern washing machines are a blend of technology and by trying to do a quick fix you might do more damage than good. So here is what you should do if your washing machine is giving you problems. Switch it and call the experts. If you are based in the Gauteng province in South Africa, call Isocool pty Ltd with more than 10 years experience working with washing machines.

Isocool pty Ltd Washing Machine Services 

Isocool pty Ltd South Africa does the following, washing machine supply, washing machine service and washing machine repairs in areas around Gauteng which include, Johannesburg North, Johannesburg South, Johannesburg West and Johannesburg East. Jump to the end of this article and check areas covered or continue reading to learn which the best washing machine brands are.

BEST WASHING BRANDS WE TRUST AT ISOCOOL PTY LTD

There are various manufactures of washing machines claiming their units to be the best on the market. However having worked closely with almost every brand we have discovered this not to be true and have come up with our own comprehensive list of brands that we trust judging on their durability, quality and aesthetics.

At Isocool pty Ltd we do not advocate for all brands and the following are the ones are the ones which we recommend.

SAMSUNG WASHING MACHINES

Samsung washing machines are packed with nifty and smart features, designed to make doing the laundry easier for busy households, but also more efficient with most models featuring water-saving functions like Quick Wash and Speed Cycle. Front load and top load washers are available in various capacities and price points. Samsung’s washing machines aren’t the cheapest in the market, but retail at a fair price for the smart capabilities and features they offer.

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Samsung washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

LG WASHING MACHINES

Based on our extensive evaluation, LG is one of the most reliable brands of washers, as it currently holds the number-one spot in both product and service quality in the South  Africa Customer Satisfaction Index rankings.

At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out LG washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

BOSCH WASHING MACHINES

The average user rating for the washer is 4.5 stars out of five, which is better than average for any type of washer and the dryer earns a 4.2 out of five. The Yale Appliance blog named Bosch the most reliable compact laundry brand, as well as one of the most reliable brands that they sell overall.

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Bosch washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

HISENSE WASHING MACHINES

Durable – One of the standout features, as confirmed by various customer reviews, is that Hisense washing machines are very durable and reliable. They compete with the very best in the market in this department and have staked their claims among the brands that can be trusted

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Hisense washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

KELVINATOR WASHING MACHINES

The Kelvinator washing machine has very high standards for clean clothes, thanks to its Hygiene plus feature. The washing machine comes with an in-built heater to sterilize clothes, kill germs and improve wash efficiency by heating the water to 90 degrees.

At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Kelvinator fridge repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

SIEMENS WASHING MACHINES

Overall wash performance is good, and while its stain-tackling talents at 40c are marginally inferior to Bosch’s, the Siemens just nudges the balance in its favor at 60c. As with most modern machines, though, program times do take a little longer than many people might expect.

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Siemens washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

SMEG WASHING MACHINES

While Smeg has a bigger focus on kitchen appliances, with extensive models in its oven and dishwasher ranges, its washing machines are also fairly well designed. Key factors to keep in mind when shopping for a new washing machine include the design, variety of wash programs and value for money.

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out Smeg washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

AEG WASHING MACHINES

4.7 out of 5 stars. Read reviews for average rating value is 4.7 of 5. Backed by a 5 Star energy rating and a range of efficient features makes this washer eco friendly, despite its size. 

 At Isocool pty Ltd we carry out AEG washing machine repairs in Johannesburg on all models so contact us if you face any problems.

Washing machine experts say

You can get professional advice on all washing machine related issues from, buying a washing machine, washing machine installation, washing machine repair / service at Isocool pty Ltd. At Isocool pty Ltd South Africa we have been serving Gauteng, for more than 10 years. We have the knowledge and experience to deal with all technical problems that affect washing machines. Call us on 078 922 2884 or contact us via email at info@isocool.co.za for all inquiries.

You can also find us on social media,  click the links below:

FACEBOOK
TWITTER
LINKEDIN

Areas we cover include;

JOHANESBURG NORTH:

Darrenwood, Cresta, Northcliff. Melville, Randburg, Rosebank; Sandton;  Rivonia;  Bryanston, Morningside, Inanda, Chartwell, Fourways, DouglasDale, Benmore Gardens, Sandton, Sandton City,Linden,Fairland,Norwood, Houghton,Saxonworld,Hydepark, Craighall, Auckland Park, Pretoria, Bedforview, Northclif,Bramley.Rosebank, Jan Smith Sandown

JOHANNESBURG EAST:

 East Rand; Kempton; Benoni, Boksburg, and Brakpan; Bedfordview; Edenvale; Greenstone; Linksfield

 JOHANNESBURG WEST:

 Randfontein to Roodepoort, Krugersdorp, Carletonville and Westonaria, Soweto, West Rand

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH:

 Bassoni; Glenvista; Lenasia; Oakdene; Winchester Hills and Mulbarton;Aeroton; Belevue East; Aspen Hills; Bellevue;Berea;Betrans; Benrose; Braamfontain; Yeoville; Troyeville; Regents Park; Ormonde;Newtown; Mulbarton; Meredale; Malvern; Kensington; Johannesburg Inner; Hillbrow; Glenvista;Denver;ElandSpark; City Deep;Betrans; Grow Gardens;Droste Park; Fairview; Randview; Winchester Hills; Glendale; Highlands; Rosettenville;Turfontein; Kenilworth; La Rochelle; Mondeo; Oakdenea;The Hill;Tulisa Park;Selby; Vredeorp;Robertsham; Pageview;Nasrec; Moffatview; Marshall town;Linmeyer;Kibler Park; Fordburg; Elcedes.