"My Washing machine smells" 07/06/2010
Poor Drainage: Many problems are caused by poor plumbing. Nowadays it’s not unusual for a machine to be plumbed into existing under-sink plumbing. This can reduce the machine's ability to pump out. As the flow of the machine decreases old water gets trapped in the sump of the machine. This is an ideal place for the build-up of mould mildew & bacteria. If the sump or coin trap of your machine gets blocked, this will reduce the pump rate of water leaving the machine. How do I fix it: If your machine is connected to the sink then pouring oils, fats & tea leaves down the sink can block the u-bend. By reducing the things that can block your sink, you will reduce blockages from your washing machine. Always check pockets of clothes for coins and other small objects that could block the pump. Put small items and bras in a wash bag or pillow case before placing in the machine. This should stop bra wires blocking the sump. Too much washing powder/liquid & Fabric conditioner: Most of the modern machines today match the water level to the amount of clothes in the machine. This is a good thing for saving water and the environment. However, although our machines have changed our habits have not. This means that most people continue to use a full cap/ball, or more of powders and liquids. Due to poor drainage these products can accumulate in the machine. Eventually they help to accelerate mould build-up and cause a condition called 'grease balling'. This is where the old soap products start to put oily spots back onto clothes. How do I fix it: Reduce the quantity of soap or fabric conditioner to a third of a cap or ball of that recommended by the product's manufacturer. Take note of the quality of wash over the next couple of washes. If you are not happy with the quality of wash then increase to no more one cap or ball. The machine takes a few washes to rinse off the build up of old soap. When using tablets, try to only have a full load with the recommended two tablets. Constant use of low temperature wash: Low temperature washing reduces the machines ability to purge itself of old soap. If your machine keeps smelling or puts marks on the clothes then this may be force you to replace it. How to fix the problem: Low temperature washing is good for the environment, and helps to reduce the cost of each wash. Modern powders and liquids work best when activated at 29°c. Over 29°c there is no significant benefit, so heating the water up to 95°c is futile. However doing a boil wash at 95°c, ideally once a month, without any clothes in the machine really helps the machine burn off old residual soap. Putting a De-scaler in your machine might help to remove lime-scale, subsequently making your machine more efficient. It will also help reduce the rough surfaces that the mould and old soap deposits stick to. Note: Vinegar is so mild it would first have to be boiled then left in the machine overnight to have any effect. Electrolux Washing Machine and Dishwasher De-scaler can be used on a 60°c wash (without clothes). I would recommend this once every 4-6months, depending on the amount of washes you do each week. Add Comment |
