Left unattended, a burst washing-machine hose can spill hundreds of gallons of water an hour. Likewise, a dryer can erupt in flame if lint is allowed to build up inside the machine or its ducts. In 1999, dryers caused 14,600 fires, 20 deaths, and $86.8 million in property damage in the United States.



Preventing such mishaps is as easy as replacing a washer's old rubber hoses, ideally with steel-jacketed ones that can't split open. Or discarding the dryer's flimsy — and flammable — vinyl duct and putting a metal one in its place. (Regular lint-trap cleaning, while necessary, won't keep lint from collecting in the duct.)

Once you've made those two major upgrades, as shown on the following pages, get in the habit of checking hoses and cleaning ducts every six months or so. Hoses should be replaced every five years; tag them with the date you installed them so you won't forget. Your appliances will last longer, run better, and use less energy.

Be good to your washer and dryer and those costly machines will be good to you. Here’s how to keep your washer and dryer humming along safely and efficiently.

Before/After Every Load

Clean out dryer lint filter to maximize efficiency.

Dry the washer’s door and gaskets after using, and open the door on top-loaders to foster air circulation and prevent mold.

Always ensure that the washing machine is level and on firm footing.

Always use the proper type and amount of detergent for the machine and load. You can actually damage some models by using the premeasured pods. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Remove damp clothes from washers immediately to prevent mold or mildew buildup.

Every Month

Inspect the dryer exhaust duct for crimps, obstructions, and unnecessary bends.

Inspect washing machine hoses for tight fittings, bulges, cracks, and leaks. Burst washing machine hoses could spill hundreds of gallons of water an hour, flooding your home. Tighten loose fittings. Replace hoses every five years; replace immediately if damaged.

Clean rubber gaskets and drums on washers and dryers with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.

Check and clean drain pump filter on front-loading washers. Consult your owner’s manual for location.

Every Three Months

Wash dryer lint filter with detergent to remove invisible chemical residues that can restrict airflow.

Every Year

Remove and clean out the entire exhaust duct line from dryer to exterior. Clogged ducts cause thousands of house fires every year, with an average of about $10,000 worth of damages per fire.

More Tips

Replace vinyl dryer exhaust ducts with metal ductwork to reduce fire hazards.

Replace rubber washing machine hoses with braided-metal ones to reduce the risk of bursting.

To prevent rusting, fill nicks and scratches on the outside of machines with touch-up paint.

All Done Appliances can give you the peace of mind that comes when you know everything is working properly. When you know chores can be done easily, you can spend more time thinking about the more important things in life. Visit their website for more information regarding their appliance services and call (904) 339-3122 now to schedule an appointment.