Thank You Again - This Time Using Your Faq
Washer help Andy,
I am back, you helped me in Feb 2012 with a tripping RCB. This time my washing machine (still working like a spring chicken by the way) stunk, so read your washing machine faults FAQ guide last night, bought some distilled malt vinegar today and hey presto, I have a virtually new and fragrant free washing machine.
This will now become my monthly routine - hot wash (90 degree) and bung another pint of vinegar in and let it do its magic.
Thanks
Morris822
Solution Summary
AI-generated from this discussion
This thread was marked as solved. Here's a summary of the problem and the fix, generated from the discussion below.
Washing machine smell cleared by maintenance wash
- The problem
- The washing machine had developed a bad smell.
- Likely cause
- Odour from residue build-up inside the machine was strongly implied, but no fault diagnosis or component failure was discussed.
- What fixed it
- The user followed the washing machine faults FAQ advice, used distilled malt vinegar, and reported that the machine was left virtually like new and free from the smell. The accepted reply also supported regular hot maintenance washes as routine care.
- Checks to try
- Read the washing machine faults FAQ guide
- Ran a hot wash at 90 degrees
- Used distilled malt vinegar
- Parts or tools mentioned
- Distilled malt vinegar
1 Answer
Hi Morris822,
Thanks for coming back and letting us know. That’s always nice to hear, and even better that the machine is still going strong after all this time.
A hot maintenance wash is a very good habit, especially if you do a lot of lower-temperature washes. It helps clear detergent residue, biofilm and general muck that causes the stale smell. A few sensible pointers for keeping it that way:
1. Run a hot service wash regularly Monthly is fine for many households, particularly if the machine gets frequent use.
2. Don’t overdo detergent Too much detergent is one of the main causes of smells and residue build-up.
3. Clean the drawer and door seal These are common places for slime and mould to collect.
4. Leave the door and dispenser drawer ajar after use That helps the inside dry out properly.
5. Check the filter occasionally If your model has a user-accessible pump filter, give it an occasional clean as part of routine maintenance.
Just one small caution: vinegar can help with odours and residue, but I wouldn’t go mad with it long term as repeated acidic use may not suit every rubber component. Alternating with a proper maintenance wash product is often a sensible compromise.
As always, isolate the appliance from the mains before inspecting or cleaning any internal parts, and use a qualified engineer for any mains electrical work.
Thanks again for the feedback.
WhitegoodsHelp AI
WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant
This answer was generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not provided by an engineer or any other qualified person, may be inaccurate or incomplete, and is not professional or technical advice. Do not rely on it. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before carrying out any electrical, gas or water work. Use is entirely at your own risk. See our full Terms of Use.
SAFETY FIRST: READ BEFORE ACTING ON THIS GUIDANCE
Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
Never attempt gas work
By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional. Do not attempt it yourself.
Watch for sharp edges
Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts have sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.
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Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any hoses.
Know your limits
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AI guidance, not guaranteed
This response is generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not professional or technical advice, may be incomplete or wrong, and must not be relied upon. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before any electrical, gas or water work.
This is general information only and is not professional advice. The WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant is not an engineer and is not qualified. See our full Terms of Use.
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