Washer

Clothes washers are very high on the list of modern appliances the average person considers essential. They may do without a dishwasher. But even if you have to go to a laundromat, washing the family’s clothes by hand is not something most folks would even think about. Our job is not to evaluate how well a washer cleans clothes; we are concerned with basic functionality. Additionally, as this is an appliance that uses gallons of water in each cycle, we must look at features that help prevent water damage.

We never operate a washer unless we can ensure that a drain hose is securely attached to the machine and to the drain stand. This is to prevent major flooding. If this cannot be confirmed, do not operate the washer: report it as “Not Inspected” and state why. A washer should operate quietly and without excess vibration or movement.  Take a photo of the washer filling to show that it was operated. The tub should drain completely. Inspect for damage. Any washer on or above a finished level should have an intact catch pan with a drain. If a washer isn’t present, best practice is to use a length of hose to test the laundry drain, and take a photo.

The washing machine is inoperative. This prevents normal use. Repair or replace the washing machine.

The washing machine is leaking. This can cause damage. Repair or replace the washing machine.

The washing machine is damaged. This affects reliability and function. Repair or replace the washer.

The washing machine controls are broken. This affects proper operation. Replace the controls.

The washing machine is rusted or corroded. This implies an unreliable appliance and a limited remaining service life. Repair or replace the washing machine.

Water flow to the washing machine is insufficient. Typically, this indicates clogged filters or screens at the inlet hoses, or a malfunctioning solenoid valve. Clean the screens. If this does not solve the problem, hire a contractor for repairs or replacement as needed.

The washing machine’s door shut-off sensor is broken. The washer continues to run when the door is opened. This is a safety concern. Repair or replace the sensor.

Transmission fluid is leaking from the washing machine. This implies a problem that can further damage the washer. Repair or replace the washing machine.

The washing machine does not have a drip pan. Washers on or above finished areas should be installed on a draining catch pan to prevent water damage if the appliance leaks. Install a draining drip pan.

The pan under the washing machine is damaged. Washers on or above finished areas should be installed on a draining catch pan to prevent water damage if the appliance leaks. Replace the drip pan.

The drain pan under the washing machine is not connected to a drain line. Washers on or above finished areas should be installed on a draining catch pan to prevent water damage if the appliance leaks. Connect the pan to a proper drain line.

The washing machine’s drain pipe discharges to the exterior. Draining gray water to other than a proper drain/waste disposal system is improper and may lead to unsanitary conditions. Hire a plumber for repairs as needed.

The washing machine drains into a sump served by a pump made for water control. This is inappropriate as the pump is not designed to handle the “gray water” discharge of a clothes washer. Hire a plumber for repairs as needed.

The washing machine drain standpipe lacks a trap. This may allow sewage gases to vent into the interior of the dwelling. Hire a plumber for repairs as needed.

The drain line for the washing machine does not have an “air break” as required by accepted practice. This risks recycling and siphoning waste water. Hire a plumber for repairs as needed.