Category Archives: Appliance Repairs

Fire Hazard Concerns Cause Major Dryer Recall

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A recall of approximately 21,000 LG Electronics and Kenmore Elite Gas Dryers has been issued by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, LG Electronics, Inc. and Sears. The gas dryer recall concerns a faulty gas valve that can fail to properly shut off once a drying cycle has ended. Such defective dryers continue to experience building heat, both internally and externally— leading to scorched drums, burning of the dryer and its contents and smoke inhalation dangers.

LG and Sears have collectively received over 141 complaints from consumers testifying that clothes dryers have continued to heat post the dryer cycle. Three consumers were burned by the defective gas dryers. Logs show 50 incidents of burnt or scorched clothing.

The recalled clothes gas dryers were manufactured in South Korea. The impacted LG Electronics gas dryers were sold by a variety of appliance stores, including Sears, across the US from November 2009 through August 2010. The recalled Kenmore Elite gas dryers where sold exclusively at Sears stores in the US from November 2009 through August 2010. The gas dryers had a retail price range retailed from approximately $650 – $1,500 depending on the model.

Consumers can determine if their gas clothes dryer is impacted by model number. A listing of model numbers can be found at the following CPSC website, click here. 

Should consumers confirm or suspect that their gas dryer is impacted by this recall, they are advised by the CPSC to IMMEDIATELY turn off the gas supply to the clothes dryer and discontinue further use of the dryer.

Consumers who purchased a recalled LG Electronics or Kenmore Elite dryer from Sears, should contact Sears for a free repair. The remedy is a replacement of the defective gas valve. For consumers who purchased their units from other retailers should contact LG customer service directly for the replacement part.

Here is the customer service contact information:

LG Consumer Contact: For additional information about the recall and to schedule a repair, contact LG toll free at (866) 223-5355 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. CT on Saturday, or visit the firm’s website at www.lg.com/us and click on Public Notices.

Sears Consumer Contact: For additional information and to schedule a repair, contact Sears toll-free at (888) 375-9741 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. Saturday, or visit the firm’s website at www.sears.com and click on Product Recalls under Customer Service.

Additional information relating to impacted model numbers and how to locate a model number can be found on the CPSC website, click here.

 

 

That Funky, Musty, Stinky Washing Machine Smell

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Does your washing machine smell like a skunk? Knowing when and how to clean a washing machine is key to avoiding a smelly washing machine. Both top loading and front loading washing machines can suffer from odor, mildew and mold problems if not routinely cleaned. Owners of front loading machines need to be especially vigilant due to design specifications and operating differences compared to top loading washers. It is generally recommended that the cleaning of a washing machine be performed at least monthly.

Hard water deposits, laundry detergent residue, film from fabric softeners all can accumulate within the washer machine and decrease operating efficiency. Dampness can also cause unhealthy mold and mildew within the washer bin, gaskets and hoses. Collectively, all serve to create an environment that is ripe for creating a smelly, musty  washing machine.

But simply cleaning your washing machine, at routine intervals, can keep your washer operating efficiently and safely —- allowing your laundry to smell and feel wonderful.

Clean Washing Machine With Vinegar

White distilled vinegar, preferably a mild acid variety, can aid in clearing your washer of detergent debris, mineral deposits and odors.

Add a 1/4 cup of vinegar to a hot water wash cycle utilizing the longest possible rinse setting. This “wash cycle” should be free of laundry. You can decrease or increase this amount according to your level of detergent residue or mineral deposits.

Some washing machines may have certain plastic and rubber components that are sensitive to vinegar. It is best to check with the washer manufacturer to see if they recommend using vinegar in their machines to prevent a costly repair or voiding of your warranty.

Washing Machine Cleaning With Citric Acid

A 1/2 cup of Citric Acid Powder can be used in a warm water empty wash cycle to help dissolve buildup and hard water mineralization. Some appliance brands, such as Miele recommend using citric acid when cleaning washing machines over vinegar as it is less corrosive to machine parts.

Appliance products like Glisten which are formulated with citric acid are ready-made to tackle mineral deposits, rust stains and laundry detergent scum.

Attacking Washing Machine Odors with Bleach

A Whirlpool Rep, Ms. Zeiter, in a Walls Street Journal interview recommended “cleaning washers monthly using an empty hot-water cycle and…bleach ” Zeiter cautioned that not properly measuring laundry detergents and other laundry products creates a buildup of heavy residue in washing machines. Such sticky buildup can lead to a stinky washer and musty laundry.

Adding a cup of liquid bleach to an empty, hot water wash cycle is effective in eliminating collected “gunk”, mold and mildew. Allowing the wash basin to soak several hours in the brew of bleach aides in the sanitation effort

Smelly Washer Cleaner – An Easy Smelly Washer Remedy

Smelly Washer Cleaner is a specially designed cleaner that works to rid washing machines of foul odors. Smelly Washer Cleaner is an all natural, organically derived cleaner.

Buy Smelly Washer Cleaner

More Helpful Ways to Clean a Washing Machine

On front loading washing machines be certain to regularly clean the rubber door gasket. Wiping with bleach or another other type of disinfectant is helpful in ridding the area of mold and mildew. Lint filters should be emptied after to each wash to avoid moisture buildup. Also, take care to remove wet laundry promptly to avoid musty washing machine smells.

Giving your washer time to “air-out” after a cycle can also assist with the elimination of musty odors and the formation of mildew. Opening up a window or running a fan in the laundry room will help the air to circulate and minimize humidity. However, care must be exercised when young children and small pets are in the household. Open washer basins can be used as resting and hiding places, which can lead to an entrapment hazard.

If you are taking care to measure laundry products correctly, but are still finding proof of excessive detergent residue you may want to switch from a liquid detergent to a powdered laundry detergent. Some machines operate more efficiently with powdered detergents. Additionally, you may want to eliminate liquid fabric softeners as some have experienced a sticky buildup with these products.

Give your washing machine time to respond to these treatments. If you still are experiencing a smelly washing machine after cleaning your appliance it may be time to call a professional repair service. Sometimes, black mold can be harbored within an area of a washer that a washing machine cleaner can’t solve.

Knowing how to routinely clean a washing machine can help you avoid costly repair bills, preserve the life of your machine and reward you with clean, fresh-smelling laundry!


Dryer Fires – An Ounce of Lint Prevention is Key

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Lint dryer fires and other causes of dryer fires caused an estimated 7,000 household fires in the years between 2006 -2008, per recent CPSC data. Now, the CPSC is participating in the creation of voluntary standards within the appliance industry to reduce the occurrence of household clothes dryer fires. But prior to manufacturers building safer and smarter dryers, consumers need to take safety into their own hands to protect their family and property. Routine dryer cleaning is mandatory….dryer lint removal a must. Knowing how to properly clean a dryer is a necessary safe laundry tip.

Lint From Dryer

Lint happens. Any act of abrasion, such as the rubbing of clothing across the skin, can cause fibers to loosen and form lint. Lint can be a combination of fabric fibers, skin, and hair and other materials. Fibers and debris gravitate towards one in another in clumps or clusters forming lint.

During the laundry lint is generated as clothing fibers become loosened and separated in the washing and drying process. Natural fabrics, such as wool and cotton, are more apt to produce lint versus synthetic materials—such as spandex.  Newer clothing will shed more lint than older clothing. Quality linen and garments with longer,stronger and better woven threads are less likely to thin and separate.

The agitation of clothing, towels and sheets within the wash cycle contribute to the deterioration of their comprised fabrics. This activity is hastened in the clothes dryer as the air generated by the dryer exhaust “pulls” loose fibers from the fabric. The tumbling of the clothing and other laundry items furthers the friction.

Dryer lint is highly flammable. In fact, it is considered excellent timber for campfires. Routine emptying of the dryer lint trap is a good first step to eliminating dryer lint. But, consumers must also perform additional dryer maintenance to prevent dryer lint from clogging the dryer vents.

What is a a dryer vent?

The dryer vent is the vent that facilitates the outflow of air exhaust and remaining lint. It is connected to the dryer and travels to either a vent cap outside or other outside clearance such as a window.

A dryer vent should be constructed of aluminum. Any vinyl dryer vents, even white vinyl, should promptly be exchanged for an aluminum dryer vent that meets current fire safety standards.

A telltale sign of a clogged dryer vent is a loss of drying capacity. Chris Hall, of Repair Clinic.com, states “If you notice that it’s taking longer for your clothes to dry, it’s likely that lint is clogging the venting system. You should clean it out as soon as possible.” When a dryer vent gets clogged by lint air flow it is compromised. The appliance thus consumes more energy as it takes longer and longer to dry the same amount of laundry. A reduction in air flow also means that the dryer can become overheated. The rise in dryer temperature and the build-up of lint within the dryer vent make for perfect fire conditions.

Cleaning a Dryer Vent

Unfortunately, many consumers assume that they have completed dryer maintenance simply by emptying the dryer lint catch after each load. However, the really hazardous buildup of dryer lint is hidden from view within the walls of the dryer vent.  A true cleaning of the dryer starts from inside of the dryer to the outside vent cap. Cleaning a dryer vent is best done three to four times a year to ensure safety. The amount of laundry you do and the type of garments that you launder can all impact lint levels. It is better to be aggressive in your lint removal efforts than lax.

Consumers no longer have to rely on a professional when cleaning the dryer. Today there are simple to use vent cleaners that can be purchased to help with the task of cleaning your dryer. Our favorite is the Gardus  linteater dryer dryer vent cleaning system rle202.

This dryer vent cleaning tool is an investment in energy savings and laundry room safety. The Gardus linteater has become a popular choice with consumers because it REALLY works to keep your dryer free of lint. This vent cleaning tool is sturdy and comes with easy to follow directions to assist in cleaning the dryer.  The Gardus Linteater can be purchased with for long dryer vents.

You will be amazed at how much faster your laundry drys. Some consumers feel as if they have a brand new clothes dryer. Think of the savings your wallet will realize from home energy savings.

 

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Avoiding A Washing Machine Flood

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Stopping Water Damage in the Laundry Room
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Did you know that washing machines are the most frequent cause of home disasters? Insurance adjusters have identified burst washing machine hoses as the single most preventable source of damage to your home. Just one burst washer hose can fill a home with hundreds of gallons of water per hour.

The Problem

Your washing machine is a hard-working appliance. Joey Suarez, of A & A Plumbing in San Antonio, Texas states” It handles thousands of gallons of water, with lots of temperature swings and jarring movement. The hoses can become easily become brittle, form leaks or burst.”

The Solutions

You should inspect your washing machine hoses periodically for signs of  brittleness, leaking and unusual wear.  Most washer rubber hoses have a three year lifespan. When replacing the rubber hose consider purchasing a braided mesh / stainless steel washing machine hose.

Don’t ignore signs of a leaking washing machine. Even minor leaks in your laundry room have the potential to cause unseen and extensive water damage to the floors, walls, subfloors and frame of your home.  Untreated moisture build-up can lead to unhealthy mold growth.

Installing a washing machine drain pan can keep the immediate area under your machine free from minor water damage.

A small leak is a warning sign of larger problems ahead. Never delay. Take quick preventative measures to avoid a more costly leak.

You may also want to consider equipping your home with a Leak Detection System. Many insurance companies will offer you a homeowner’s insurance discount if you notify them that you have installed a water leak detector

Passive Leak Detection Systems are an affordable option for homeowners. These detectors signal leaks as they occur in your home. The downside is that someone needs to be in proximity to the detector to hear the alarm signal.  So, it’s alert is only useful if someone is at home to stop the flow of water.  This won’t help if you are work or the grocery store but it far better than not having any alarm at all.

Active Leak Detection Systems are more expense to install but can save you thousands if you ever have the misfortune of a serious water leak. These devices not only signal a warning alarm but also have the capacity to shut the water supply off at either the appliance or the main house supply. Some systems have the ability to activate central alarm systems.

Vacation Planning

Remember before leaving for vacation or a business trip to shut the water supply off to your washing machine. You don’t want to later find that your home was devastated by water damage while you were traveling.

With these simple preventative measures you can avoid a costly washing machine hose burst or other water damage accident in your laundry room.


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Avoiding Washing Machine Repairs Can be Costly

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It always happens at the worst possible time. You knew something sounded odd that last time you did laundry. But, your attention turned to other other household happenings: dinner plans, a bake sale and soccer practice. Then as you finally get a chance to combat that mounting load of laundry—-before your in-laws arrive that afternoon—your washing machine won’t start. Zilch, nada , zero response ….  In a panic you call your local washing machine repair hero and hope and pray that the service bill doesn’t break the bank. Or worse yet, deliver news the fateful news that you washer machine is beyond repair and that a replacement is needed. How can this be prevented?

Know the Warning Signs

Most washing machine repairs are preceded by a warning call of sorts. Recognizing what your washer is trying to “communicate” to you is the key to avoiding a costly repair or pricey replacement. The appliance repair specialist’s at 0800 Repair want consumers to beware of these telltale signs of washer trouble:

  • Loud, uncharacteristic noise
  • Unpleasant smells
  • Clothes coming out dirty,
  • Leaks and broken doors

Whenever you witness one of the above signs (or other abnormal operation) in your washing machine you need to act quickly to resolve the problem. Don’t let little problems repairs turn in large repairs.

Repair Options

A good place to start troubleshooting your washing machine problems is by consulting the manufacturer’s manual. Review the common problems section for an obvious explanation as to your machine’s poor performance or lack of operation. Sometimes the cause could be related to a power source…so be certain to check plugs and fuses.

Next you will need to determine if your washer is still under warranty. If it is you should consult with the manufacturer prior to starting any repairs. Most appliance manufacturers’s will require you to utilize an authorized service provider. Not doing so could void your warranty protections and leave you with a huge bill.

If you are out of the warranty period and handy, you may be able fix the problem yourself without professional help.  Assistance can be found with the helpful customer service representatives at AppliancePartsPro.com. This online resource has round-the-clock help to assist you with your washer repair, clothes dryer or other home appliance. The company has over a million parts stocked in their warehouse. They realize how vital it is to have a functioning washer for your family — and most washing machine parts are shipped in 1-2 days. No worries if you order the wrong part as the company allows you 365 days to return parts. Their website also offers free access to an appliance repair forum, where you can receive further advice and tips for your washing machine repair.

AppliancePartsPros.com, Inc.

Sometimes a washing machine repair is best left to a qualified appliance repair specialist. Many newer model washers can be quite complicated for the average consumer to repair. Paul Feek, Managing Director of 0800 REPAIR,states: “Technology plays a much larger role in today’s appliances and it is important to ensure that the goods such as washing machines are well maintained, and that repairs are carried out when necessary.

The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers cautions consumer’s to get a repair quote prior to contracting service. Ideally, this should be done at the initial inquiry call. They also remind consumer’s to keep track of all paperwork relating to the repair—-bills, written estimates and  service contracts. Receipts should be detailed. Proper documentation is especially important when your product is still under warranty. You will need to seek reimbursement and/or negotiate with the manufacturer for a replacement if you received a lemon.

Remember the important safe laundry tip here is to act quickly to repair the washing machine. You don’t want a $50 repair to turn into a $200 repair—or worse— by forcing the washer to operate in a broken state.