Home Repairs Rx

By James Becksdale

 A washing machine has become an essential part of life since we dropped the scrub board for electrical efficiency and we all know how much easier life is within one. If your washing machine has broken then the next best alternative may be to take it to a dry cleaners which can become costly over time, not to mention the hassle of going there in the first place and then getting your dirty laundry out in public...literally. This is why you want to maintain your washing machine as well as possible by using limescale and detergent remover once a month to keep the mechanics fresh. In addition you should also change any filters such as a dust filter regularly so that you don't have bits all over your fresh washing. However even the best maintained washing machine can still break so here is a run through of some common problems and how you may be able to fix them without the need of a mechanic.

Washing Machine shakes violently
Often this problem should just be an easy fix; the problem comes from uneven feet on the machine meaning it shakes as the drum spins. Your washing machine should probably have feet that can be adjusted by screwing them in and out to raise the legs, try this using trial and error until all four feet touch the ground. Also if you own a level, use it to try and get the machine flat for the optimum position.

Washing Machine is completely dead
One of the only ways you will be able to fix this problem yourself without the help of a mechanic is to try changing the fuse in the plug with a fuse from another appliance and see if this solves it. Otherwise the problem may be with the wiring on the power switch, if you don't know how to rectify this then best to leave it to a professional so you don't get hurt. If you are going to try and fix this, make sure the washing machine is unplugged first!

Washing Machine is on but won't start
The problem here is likely the door switch, this is activated when the door is closed as a safety feature so that the machine doesn't start with the door still open. You can try fiddling with it to see if the mechanisms are jammed because of dirt, otherwise it may be the wiring that needs fixing and you should call in a professional.

Washing Machine is leaking
This can come from a few places, if the machine is leaking from the soap drawer then it may be from a blockage caused by putting in too much. Try cleaning this out with boiling hot water after you have cleaned out any visible soap powder. Other leakages may not be as easy to fix so you should contact a professional.

Washing machine repairs may not be as expensive as you may think so if you are going to call a mechanic, make sure they specialise in appliance repair.