When to Repair or Replace Parts in Your Commercial Washer or Dryer Deciding whether to repair or replace parts in your commercial laundry machines can be challenging. How do you know if it’s just a quick fix or if it could lead to equipment failure? This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions, keep your commercial laundry equipment in top shape and help to reduce our environmental footprint. Belts When to Repair One often overlooked aspect of commercial laundry equipment maintenance is belt replacement. Under normal operating conditions, belts should last 3–10 years before replacement. If your belt shows slight fraying or minor cracks but is still intact, you can often handle this with temporary repairs and proper adjustments. If the belt is slipping but otherwise appears in good condition, simply tightening or repositioning it can often resolve the issue. Grinding, squealing or banging noises indicate red flags of a worn-out belt or pulley. If you hear unusual noises, it’s time to call a factory-trained technician for some diagnostics. When to Replace If you notice visible damage, severe cracks, splits, etc., your belt likely needs replacing. If the machine’s belt slips regularly even after adjustments, or you continuously get error codes, it’s definitely time for a replacement. If you’re unsure, call a professional. Pumps When to Repair Small leaks or drips can often be fixed with sealant or by replacing specific components. If your commercial washer pump filter is clogged it could cause standing water in the tub, but thoroughly cleaning or unclogging can usually resolve any minor issues. If clogged pumps have left your clothes smelling of mildew, make sure to deep clean the washing machine to prevent any further build-up. When to Replace Significant leaks are a clear sign that the washer pump is failing and needs attention. Excessive noise during operation often indicates worn bearings or internal damage. If the pump struggles to drain water properly or shows consistent operational problems, take it as a sign that replacement is necessary. Motors When to Repair If the machine’s motor overheats occasionally, it may need maintenance or a minor repair, such as cleaning or replacing worn-out brushes. When to Replace Burnt smells, smoke and persistent overheating suggest major internal issues and require the help of a trained technician. If the machine’s motor struggles to run or doesn’t reach the required speed, it’s time to replace it. Sensors When to Repair Sensors can often be recalibrated or reset to get them back on track. Minor malfunctions, such as a dirty or disconnected sensor, can usually be resolved with cleaning or reconnection. However, if your sensors provide inconsistent or inaccurate readings even after calibration, it’s a sign that replacement is necessary. When to Replace When considering sensor replacement, there are a few key signs to watch for. If your sensors provide erratic or inaccurate readings even after calibration, they need replacing. If sensors are completely non-responsive despite troubleshooting efforts, it’s time to swap them out. WASH has been servicing commercial-grade washers and dryers since 1947, so we understand the importance of maintaining machine uptime and the challenges of repairing this type of heavy-use equipment. Our factory-trained technicians are skilled at diagnosing and fixing top-brand commercial laundry equipment and are ready to help get your machines up and running fast. When you use WASH Repair to fix your washers and dryers, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. And, when it comes time to replace your old machines with new ones, we’ve got you covered, too. To schedule a repair, call (800) 236-5599 or visit wash.com/repair.
Top 5 Signs Your Commercial Washer or Dryer Needs Repair Commercial washers and dryers are the backbones of every smooth laundry operation – but even the toughest commercial machines need a little TLC now and then. Without it, machines may start showing signs of malfunction. The most common causes of washer-related issues include overloading and over-soaping. For dryers, it tends to be caused by dirty or clogged venting. Wondering how to spot if your commercial laundry machine might need a repair before failure? Consider calling WASH Repair if any of these symptoms come up. Here are the top five signs of a machine in need of repair: Drainage Issues – If your washer isn’t draining properly, notice standing water after a cycle, or see any water on the floor, it’s a clear indication of a problem. This could stem from various issues including a clogged pump, faulty water valves or even a malfunctioning drainage system. In washers, failure to drain properly can result in clothes coming out soggy, making them prone to mildew It’s crucial to address drainage issues promptly and have your commercial laundry machine repaired to prevent further damage and ensure optimal performance. Incomplete Drying – When your dryer fails to fully dry your clothes or if they come out damp at the end of a cycle, this could be due to a variety of reasons such as a clogged venting system, faulty heating elements or a broken belt hindering the drum’s rotation. Incomplete drying not only wastes time but also increases energy consumption and can lead to musty odors in your laundry. In addition to cleaning the dryer lint screen after each use, having your dryer vents cleaned regularly makes a big difference in your dryer’s performance and it’s better for the environment. Unusual Noises – Any abnormal sounds coming from your washer or dryer during operation? Grinding, squealing or banging noises indicate red flags. These noises often indicate underlying mechanical issues like worn-out belts, bearings or pulleys. Ignoring these sounds can lead to further damage and costly repairs of your commercial washers and dryers down the line. To sum it up, if the machine is making weird noises, it’s time to call a factory-trained technician. Foul Odors – Persistent foul smells coming from your commercial washer could be a sign of residue buildup in the tub or pump, especially if the machine is frequently overloaded or wet clothes are allowed to sit inside for extended periods. Similarly, a burning smell from your dryer suggests overheating, often caused by lint buildup in the venting system or a malfunctioning component. Ignoring odors not only affects the cleanliness of your laundry but also poses potential fire hazards. Mechanical Malfunctions – An error code is an obvious sign of malfunction, but sometimes mechanical malfunctions of commercial laundry machines arise without setting off any error codes. Take note: if the washer tub is not spinning or agitating, the dryer drum is not turning or the door/lid refuses to open, then there is mechanical failure. These problems can arise due to belt or pump failures in washers and belt issues in dryers. Addressing mechanical malfunctions promptly is key to preventing further damage and ensuring the longevity of your machines. WASH has been servicing commercial-grade washers and dryers since 1947, so we understand the importance of maintaining machine uptime and the challenges of repairing this type of heavy-use equipment. Our factory-trained technicians are skilled at diagnosing and fixing top-brand commercial laundry equipment and are ready to help get your machines up and running fast. When you use WASH Repair to fix your washers and dryers, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. And, when it comes time to replace your old machines with new ones, we’ve got you covered too.