Clean Lint Traps
It’s essential to clean the lint trap to help prevent lint build-up and potential fires. Ideally, a lint trap should be cleaned after each load you put in the dryer. This can be done by removing the lint with your fingers and wiping the edges clean with a cloth. Inspect the dryer ducts and vent as well to help prevent lint build-up. If you notice your dryer hasn’t been working well, consider hiring professionals to clean the ducts.
Keep Detergent Products Out of Reach and Out of Sight
Young children can mistake laundry packets for toys or an object to put in their mouths. Be sure to keep children and pets safe by placing laundry detergent products and cleaning supplies tightly sealed in hard-to-reach areas and away from their sight level. Even when you are planning to do laundry, avoid leaving any packets on top of a laundry basket or somewhere a child could easily grab it. Contact your local poison control centre if you think a child has come into contact with them.
Catch Leaks in Advance
To help prevent water damage and potential flooding, have a pan or tray that sits under the washing machine and connects to a floor drain to catch any leaks before they cause damage. This is especially important if your washing machine is located on the upper level.
Lock Washer and Dryer Doors
Machine doors should be locked to prevent any small children or pets from climbing in, even when the machines are off. Most front-loading washers and dryers contain built-in safety locks, but if your models don’t have them, you can invest in a child-safe lock. To help prevent children from playing with the washer and dryer, you can set up laundry room rules for them to follow.
Replace Water Hoses
Inspect the condition of the washing machine supply hoses to see if they need replacing. If you notice any signs of wear and tear or know that you’ve had them for over five years, consider replacing them. Just make sure when you are replacing them, you turn off the water valves to avoid any accidental water excess.
Machine Maintenance
Overall washer and dryer maintenance can help improve longevity and limit any future breakdowns that could cause the laundry appliances to be out of commission or result in costly repairs. Little laundry tasks such as leaving the washer lid or door open between loads can assist in preventing unpleasant odours and mildew and washing the actual washing machine can help improve its overall productivity.
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These tips are provided for information and prevention purposes only. They are general in nature, and Desjardins Insurance cannot be held liable for them. We recommend using caution and consulting an expert for comprehensive, tailored advice.
In Quebec, Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins General Insurance Inc. In Ontario and Alberta, Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Direct Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance.
