You probably don’t think about your washer or dryer much—until they stop working. Then suddenly, laundry piles up, panic sets in, and I get a call. As a laundry machine repair man, I’m the person people call when their clothes are trapped in a drum full of water or when their dryer won’t heat on laundry day.

Let me take you behind the scenes of what it's like to fix these essential machines—and how you can avoid some of the most common problems.

Morning Call: Washer Won’t Drain

This is a classic issue. A customer calls because their washer is full of water and won’t move to the spin cycle. Nine times out of ten, it's a clogged drain pump filter—sometimes filled with coins, hair ties, or even socks.

I once pulled a wedding ring out of a washer filter and handed it back to a very relieved customer. You never know what surprises are inside.

Tip: Clean your washer’s drain filter every few months, especially if you wash small items or have pets.

Midday: The Dryer That Doesn’t Dry

Dryers that run but don’t heat are another regular issue. Common causes include a blown thermal fuse, a faulty heating element, or—most often—a clogged vent line.

Blocked vents aren’t just inefficient—they’re dangerous. Lint buildup can cause fires, which is why I always remind homeowners to clean their lint traps and check their vents.

Tip: Clean the lint filter after every load, and inspect your dryer vent every 6–12 months.

Afternoon: Washer Walks Across the Floor

A customer calls to say their washer is shaking the entire house—or "dancing across the laundry room." This usually means it's not leveled properly, or the drum shock absorbers or springs are worn out.

If ignored, it can lead to expensive damage to the drum or motor.

Tip: Make sure your washer is balanced and sits on a level floor. If it wobbles when empty, it’ll shake even worse when loaded.

Evening Advice: Keep Your Machines Healthy

Just like a car, laundry machines need occasional TLC. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your machines by years.

Here’s a simple checklist:

• Clean washer detergent drawers and filters monthly

• Leave the washer door open after use to prevent mold

• Check water hoses annually for bulges or leaks

• Use the right amount of detergent—too much can cause buildup

Final Spin: The Repairman’s Reward

There’s something satisfying about helping people get their laundry routine back on track. I’ve rescued clothes, stopped floods, prevented fires, and even saved a few relationships (yes, laundry stress is real).

If your washer or dryer starts acting up, don’t wait until it stops completely. A little attention now can save you time, money, and frustration later.