About Washer and Dryer Repair

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By Mary S. Yamin-Garone
eHow Contributing Writer

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Washers and dryers are designed to work for many years. When they do malfunction, the rising cost of repair services is creating many do-it-yourself repairmen. Oftentimes bringing in outside help can be avoided completely by learning some simple repairs. When troubleshooting washers and dryers, it is important to know that multiple issues may be responsible for the same problem. The key is to eliminate as many as possible to isolate the source.

Considerations

Fundamental washer and dryer repair can be performed by anyone--regardless of technical ability or skill level--if they are equipped with the proper tools and knowledge. Thanks to the Internet, a myriad of online resources are available to aid in identifying and fixing the problem. Searching for a particular symptom reveals potential causes. Many websites provide step-by-step, easy-to-understand instructions complete with illustrations, while other sites may offer repair guides specific to these appliances on CD-Rom or for downloading (see Resources below).

Identification

Determining what is causing your washer or dryer to malfunction can be challenging. As with most appliances, resolutions to basic washer and dryer repair problems are the same for most models and manufacturers. With a dryer, defective gas coils may prevent it from heating up; a broken drive belt and/or idler pulley stops it from tumbling; defective motors result in a noisy machine; and a bad cycling thermostat will trigger overheating. With a washer, a bad lid switch keeps the machine from spinning; a blocked drain line prevents the water from being pumped out; and if both occur simultaneously, the machine's pump pulley is most likely frozen.

Prevention/Solution

Minimize washer and dryer repair by conducting routine maintenance. Examine the dryer's vent pipe for lint annually and the lint filter after each use for lint build-up. Replace any worn or torn filters and clean any residue with a soft brush and liquid detergent. The interior of the dryer's cabinet also is a haven for lint. Set up a maintenance schedule for your washer that includes checking and replacing worn hoses and, in some models, cleaning the lint filter. Lint filters are located inside the agitator or near the tub's topside.

Misconceptions

One misconception associated with dryers is that softener sheets do not damage the machine. The residue they produce, however, may impede the lint filter. In those instances, cleanse the filter with liquid detergent and a soft brush. Clean the sensor with cotton and rubbing alcohol.

Warning

The primary focus of washer and dryer repair should be safety. That includes taking the obvious precautions, such as unplugging the appliance from the source of power before you begin any troubleshooting or repair work. Any fuse box or circuit breaker connections to the washer and dryer also should be disengaged. Be aware of sharp edges found on some parts, and always keep children and pets away from disassembled appliances.