1. Run a Monthly Maintenance Wash
Set a reminder to run a maintenance wash once a month: empty drum, 90°C cycle, with either a proprietary washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar in the drum (not the dispenser). This dissolves grease and soap residue, kills bacteria, and descales the heating element — the single most valuable maintenance habit you can build.
2. Clean the Pump Filter Regularly
The pump filter at the bottom front of the machine (behind the small access panel) should be cleaned every 2–3 months. It catches coins, hair grips, buttons, and fluff that would otherwise block the pump. A blocked filter is one of the most common causes of drainage failure — entirely preventable with regular cleaning.
3. Leave the Door Ajar Between Washes
Keeping the door closed traps moisture in the drum and promotes mould growth in the door seal. Leave the door open a few inches after every wash to allow the drum to dry. Do the same with the soap drawer — pull it out slightly after use to allow air circulation.
4. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Most people use too much detergent. Excess suds put strain on the machine's pressure switch and cause build-up in the drum and pipework. Check your detergent's dosage guide for your water hardness and load size — you almost certainly need less than you are using.
5. Do Not Overload
The drum should be full but not tightly packed — the laundry should be able to move freely during the wash. Consistent overloading is the biggest cause of premature bearing failure, motor wear, and suspension damage.
6. Check Pockets Before Loading
Coins, hairpins, and small metal objects are the enemy of washing machine pumps. They pass through the drum and collect in the filter and pump, where they can jam the impeller or cause wear. A 10-second pocket check before loading saves expensive pump repairs.
7. Level the Machine
Check all four feet are in contact with the floor and the machine is level. An unlevel machine vibrates excessively during spin, accelerating wear on bearings, shock absorbers, and counterweights. Check levelness with a spirit level and adjust the feet as needed.
8. Use a Descaler in Hard Water Areas
If you live in a hard water area (most of southern and eastern England), limescale is your machine's biggest enemy. Use a descaling product monthly alongside your maintenance wash. This is especially important for the heating element, which limescale coats and insulates, causing it to overheat and fail prematurely.