What to do When Appliances Misbehave

Dryers that take hours to effectively dry clothes or washers that do not fill or drain adequately may suffer from a clogged hose, vent, or scree

For most families, keeping up with the laundry can seem like a never ending battle. If the washer or dryer isn’t working efficiently, the piles can quickly multiply. Homeowners experiencing issues with their washers and dryers can try the following to troubleshoot before the problem gets out of hand. 

Check for level install

Washers and dryers that are not installed properly or are not level can vibrate, make strange noises, or even leak during operation. To check this without using a level, place a glass or jar half-filled with water on top, and watch to see if the water appears even or dips to one side. If the water appears sloped, refer to the manufacturer’s manual for instructions on leveling them safely.

Clear out hoses, vents, and screens 

Dryers that take hours to effectively dry clothes or washers that do not fill or drain adequately may suffer from a clogged hose, vent, or screen. The following steps might lead to a quick and easy fix: 

For a dryer: 

• Clean out the lint screen thoroughly after every load

• Disconnect the exhaust hose and use a shop vacuum to clean the lint buildup from the hose and openings on the rear of the dryer and wall vent

For a washer: 

• Disconnect the intake hoses on the back of the washer and clean off the connection screen

• Check the drain hose for clogs by running water through it to see if it runs freely or it is clogged 

Homeowners who try these tips and still are met with washers and dryers that are not functional may need to call a professional to help.