Were you ever explicitly taught how to look after your household appliances? For many of us, the answer is a resounding “no!” We buy them, use them until they falter, and then face the often-costly exercise of repair or replacement. But what if a little know-how could extend the life of your trusty washing machine and even save you money when it’s time for an upgrade?
This guide will walk you through essential maintenance tips to keep your current washing machine humming. Plus, we’ll explore a savvy option for Brisbane residents looking for a new front-loader without breaking the bank: factory second appliances Brisbane.
Show Your Washing Machine Some Love: Essential Maintenance Tips
A little regular attention can go a long way in preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring your washing machine operates efficiently for years to come. Here are some straightforward tips, expanding on those you might already know:
- Keep it Clean, Inside and Out:
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- Exterior Wipe-Down: Every now and then, give the outside surfaces of your machine a good wipe with a damp cloth. This prevents dust and detergent-residue buildup, keeping it looking its best.
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- The All-Important Filter Clean: Your washing machine filter is a hero, trapping lint, coins, and other debris. A clogged filter can lead to drainage problems and poor washing performance. You’ll likely find instructions for your specific model online. Generally, you’ll need a shallow dish or tray to catch some water and a towel for any spills. Make this a regular check!
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- Don’t Forget the Door Seal: The rubber seal around the door (especially on front loaders) is a notorious trap for gunk, leftover tissues, shopping receipts, and even mould. Regularly wipe it down with a damp cloth, getting into the folds. For stubborn grime, a very mild bleach solution (check your manufacturer’s advice) can be used sparingly.
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- Drawer Duty – Detergent and Softener Compartment: This drawer can get gunked up with detergent and softener residue. Most drawers can be removed for easy cleaning under running water. Use a soft cloth or a gentle brush to clean the nozzles where the water enters the drawer too.
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- Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many modern machines have a dedicated cleaning cycle. If yours doesn’t, run an empty hot wash with a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar (not suitable for bio-systems of course) once a month to help remove internal build-up and keep it smelling fresh.
- Hoses and Connections – The Unseen Heroes:
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- Check Drainage and Pipes: Ensure the drainage hose isn’t kinked or crushed, which can restrict water flow and cause issues. Check that both the inlet and outlet hoses are securely attached and not leaking.
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- Going Away? Turn Off the Taps: If you’re heading off on holiday, it’s a wise precaution to turn off the water supply to your washing machine at the wall taps. This can prevent potential disasters from unexpected leaks or burst pipes.
- Use it Wisely:
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- Don’t Overload: While tempting to stuff as much in as possible, overloading puts strain on the motor and drum, and your clothes won’t get as clean. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity.
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- Use the Right Detergent (and Amount!): Too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes and inside the machine. High-efficiency machines, in particular, require specific HE detergents.
Brisbane’s Smart Laundry Secret: Factory Second Appliances
When the time eventually comes to replace your washing machine, the cost of a brand-new model can be a significant hit to the budget. This is where exploring factory second appliances in Brisbane can lead to substantial savings.
What are Factory Second Appliances?
These are new appliances that cannot be sold as ‘brand new’ typically due to:
- Minor cosmetic imperfections (like a scratch or dent)
- Carton damage during shipping
- Being an ex-display model
- Being a discontinued line
Crucially, these imperfections are usually only aesthetic and do not affect the machine’s performance or functionality.
Why Consider Factory Seconds in Brisbane?
- Significant Cost Savings: This is the biggest drawcard. You can often get a high-quality, reputable brand washing machine for a much lower price than a pristine, in-box equivalent.
- Get More for Your Money: Your budget might stretch to a model with more features or a larger capacity in the factory seconds market compared to buying brand new.
- Environmentally Conscious Choice: Giving a perfectly functional appliance a home, despite a minor cosmetic flaw, helps reduce waste.
- Warranty Often Included: Reputable retailers of factory second appliances in Brisbane will still offer a warranty, giving you peace of mind. Always clarify the warranty terms before purchasing.
Where to Find Factory Second Appliances in Brisbane:
A quick search for “factory second appliances Brisbane” will reveal several retailers specializing in these products. Look for businesses with good reviews and clear information about their stock and warranty conditions. You will no doubt find us! Brisbane Factory Seconds – NOrthside Appliance Spares and Repairs, authorised Electrolux factory seconds supplier.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Factory Seconds:
- Inspect Thoroughly: Understand the nature of the imperfection. For most, a small dent on the side of a machine that will be hidden under a counter is a negligible issue for the savings offered. Our factory seconds are graded and inspected so you know exactly what you are getting
- Ask About Warranty: Ensure you know what warranty is provided and what it covers. Ours is the manufacturers warranty.
- Delivery and Installation: There are associated costs but do ask if this is what you need.
By adopting these simple maintenance habits and keeping the option of factory seconds in mind for future purchases, you’re well on your way to a more efficient, cost-effective laundry experience in Brisbane. Your washing machine (and your bank balance) will thank you!