In today’s busy households, washing machines are, a lot of times, the unsung heroes. Whether it’s cleaning sporting attire, daily workwear, or a weekend of bedding changes, your washing machine puts in work. 

But, like any machine, it has its limits. If your washing machine is being overworked, it could be costing you in performance, energy efficiency, and even repairs bills down the road. 

Here’s how to tell if your washing machine is working too hard, and a few easy tips to help extend its life.

Signs Your Washing Machine Is Being Overworked

1.) It’s Running More Than Five Loads Per Week

Most standard, residential washing machines are designed for around 5-7 loads per week. However, if you’re running multiple loads per day, especially in a large household, your machine may be racking up more cycles than it was built to handle. 

Over time, this can strain the motor, drum bearings, and the suspension. 

2.) Strange Noises, Shaking, or Bouncing

If your washing thumps, rattles, or seems to “walk” across the floor, it might be a sign that the loads are too heavy, or there are unbalanced loads. This not only strains the internal components, but also shortens the overall lifespan of the machine.

3.) Clothes Aren’t Getting Clean, or Are Coming Out Damaged

Overstuffed loads, or back-to-back cycles, can lead to ineffective cleaning, detergent buildup, or even torn fabric. If your clothes are coming out dirty or frayed, your washer might not be keeping up with your demands.

 

Washing machine with clothes spilling out of it.

 

“Beyond the damage to your things, your washing machine will also sustain much more intense wear and tear if it's consistently overloaded,” Southern Living magazine reported. “A heavy drum can strain the electric motor that turns it, causing stress to happen quicker. Essentially, overloading shortens the lifespan of your appliance.”

4.) Frequent Maintenance Issues

If your machine needs repairs more than once a year, it’s likely working too hard. Consistent strain will eventually lead to premature breakdowns, especially if you’re not keeping up with basic maintenance.

How to Give Your Washer a Break, and Help It Last

1.) Space Out Your Loads

Instead of back-to-back loads in a single day, try spacing them out throughout the week. This gives the motor and internal parts time to cool down before being used again.

2.) Follow the Load Size Guidelines

Check your washer’s manual—or look inside the lid or door—for load size recommendations. Avoid cramming too much into one cycle, which can damage the drum and reduce wash quality. A good rule of thumb: Your clothes should be loosely packed, with enough room for water and detergent to circulate.

3.) Switch to a High-Efficiency Detergent

If your washer is a high-efficiency (HE) model, make sure you’re using the proper detergent. HE detergent creates less suds and rinses cleaner, helping your machine perform better under heavy use.

4.) Clean It Regularly

Run a cleaning cycle or use a washer cleaner once a month. This helps prevent buildup in the drum and hoses, which can cause clogs or foul odors that worsen under frequent use.

 

A gloved hand cleaning the inside of a washing machine.

 

5.) Rotate Laundry Duties

If you have access to a second washing machine, maybe in a basement apartment or guest house, alternate usage if possible. Even if just once a week, sharing the load can extend the life of both machines.

6.) Consider Upgrading If Your Household Has Grown

If you recently added a new baby, started working from home, or have adult children moving back in, your washer’s original workload may no longer fit your lifestyle. Consider a larger-capacity or commercial-grade unit that’s built for more frequent use.

Protect What Works Hard for You

Your washing machine works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your home running smoothly. The best way to return the favor? Regular care and proactive protection. 

With an America’s Preferred Home Warranty, you can choose your own licensed contractor for covered repairs, giving you peace of mind when your washer (or any other essential appliance) needs attention. 

Plus, our plans cover normal wear and tear, so you’ll have coverage if that overworked washer eventually gives out, APHW is there to assist with covered repairs.

Last Word

If you think your washer is being overworked, don’t wait for it to break. 

Being proactive may keep it spinning efficiently, and keep your household humming along. And if you end up needing a covered repair, you’ll be glad you had a home warranty in place to help handle the repair costs.

Get a quote today: https://www.aphw.com/get-coverage/.