645 days ago

How to Care for Your Washing Machine

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean Hamilton

Looking after your washing machine will maximise its life and performance.
Our member surveys indicate that the average life expectancy of a top loader is seven years, and 12 for a front loader. A little care and maintenance can go a long way, so here are some tips to help you get the most from your washer.

Watch out for keys and coins
Keys and coins kill washing machines. Check pockets before washing, and look for dirt and objects left in the drum, or hidden in the rubber seals after each wash.

Check your pump filter
Many washing machines have these as a last line of defence against foreign objects. Look for a small hatch low down on the outside of your machine. Check this monthly and clear anything that shouldn’t be in there — use a towel or tray to catch the water when you open it up. If your machine isn’t draining, this is the first thing to check before calling for a repair.

Limit your washer's spin speed
Keep this to 1200rpm, even if your machine goes up to 1400 or even 1600rpm. Higher speeds reduce the life of belts, drum bearings and door seals, without removing much more water.

Don’t use fabric softener with laundry detergent
Fabric softeners react to create a waxy residue called “scrud”. No one wants “scrud” – especially as it clings to unseen parts of the machine, such as under the agitator. If blobs break free, they can leave greasy marks on laundry.

Regularly clean the detergent dispenser
Check the manual to see how to remove it, and wash it thoroughly in warm soapy water.

Clean the door seal
Remove water from the door seal after each wash (if you notice mould, wipe the rubber seal with hot water and detergent). Between washes, leave the door and detergent dispenser open – that lets the interior dry.

Use the service cycle
Many machines have a specific “service” or “cleaning” cycle. It helps your machine smell fresh, prevents detergent build-up, and keeps it cleaning at its best.

If your machine doesn’t have a service cycle, run a hot wash with a full-strength powder detergent once a month.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

More messages from your neighbours
38 minutes ago

Is Your Home Child Proof?

Matt from Matt Wineera - Thats Real Estate with Matt Wineera

🌟 **Home Safety Alert!** 🌟
Bringing up little ones is an adventure, but safety is key—especially at home! ✨
Here are some top tips to keep your precious ones safe and sound. 🏡💕

1️⃣ Secure Your Space: Ensure electrical safety switches and smoke alarms are up-to-date and working properly. ⚡🔥
And don't forget those stair gates—safety first! 🚸

2️⃣ Outdoor Fun, Safe & Sound: Set up a secure play area away from any potential dangers like driveways or pools. 🚗
Plus, check your plants to keep those curious little hands safe! 🌱👶

3️⃣ Tool Time: Keep garages and sheds locked tight to avoid any curious mishaps with tools or chemicals.

Don't forget to learn some life-saving First Aid techniques! 🩹✨
It's not just helpful—it could be lifesaving. 🚑💪

👶 What's your top safety tip for little ones at home? Share below! 👇

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19 hours ago

What has happened to the contractors?

Jill from Welcome Bay

The gutters and drains are choked with leaves. Used to have regular visits by contractors to clear this but not anymore. I have had to do this and take to the transfer station and charged for the privilege.Well Commission, NO MORE. Are my rates for services or cycleways. .Next on the agenda??? Flooding caused by blocked drains.

2 hours ago

Why Leonie loves lawn bowls

Bob Owens Retirement Village

For the uninitiated, lawn bowls may just look like a bunch of people throwing balls up and down a flat piece of grass.

But for Evelyn Page Retirement Village resident Leonie, it is a game of skill that has brought her 40 years of friendship, camaraderie and many fun-filled experiences and memories.

So much so, that she has dedicated most of the last 20-plus years to umpiring the game. It is her way of giving back, she says, and now she is lending those skills to the upcoming trans-Tasman inter-village Ryman Roll Up.

Click read more for the full story.

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