Washing Machine Repair or Replace?

washing machine repair or replaceThis week on You Got This! we’re talking about your washing machine.  The holidays are coming, and your plumbing can become a bit strained with extra houseguests, but what about the washing machine? Those suckers really go through it. This episode covers repair versus replace, when it comes to issues with the washer. Listen to this week’s episode.

Common issues with washing machines include:

  1. Leaky Washer Tub – In some cases, if a washing machine is leaking, it could be because it’s tub is cracked. A cracked tub is a very expensive repair, and depending on how old the washer is, it might be more cost-effective to buy a new washing machine.
  2. Older Washing Machine – As washers age, they are more prone to break down. Generally, once a washing machine is over 10 years old, its best days are behind it, and it will degrade quickly to the point where it will need to be replaced. If your washer is more than a decade old and giving you trouble, even if repairing it is an option, it may be best to replace it.
  3. Bad Odor – Over time, some washing machines may develop a bad odor that doesn’t ever go away. This is especially true for some brands of front-loading washers. The smell can often be the result of mold and mildew camping out in the machine. If that’s the case, it may be impossible to get rid of the smell, and the best option could be to replace the washer.
  4. Control Panel Issues – Depending on the age of the washer, this can be a repairable issue. Replacing the control panel on an older washing machine may be more cost-effective than replacing the entire washer. Newer machines tend to have more complex controls, which still should be able to be repaired, but it may be more costly than it would be for an older washer.
  5. Excessive Shakiness and Noisiness – A washer that is loud or vibrates excessively may just not be level on the floor. Solving the problem may be as simple as placing something under one of the washer’s feet to keep it from wobbling. If the washing machine is level and the issue persists, there could be a mechanical problem with the washer, such as an issue with the motor or drum.

You can read about this topic in more detail here.

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