854 days ago

How to Care for Your Washing Machine

Robert Anderson from Curtain Clean (The Curtain Store)

Looking after your washing machine will maximise its life and performance.
Our member surveys indicate that the average life expectancy of a top loader is seven years, and 12 for a front loader. A little care and maintenance can go a long way, so here are some tips to help you get the most from your washer.

Watch out for keys and coins
Keys and coins kill washing machines. Check pockets before washing, and look for dirt and objects left in the drum, or hidden in the rubber seals after each wash.

Check your pump filter
Many washing machines have these as a last line of defence against foreign objects. Look for a small hatch low down on the outside of your machine. Check this monthly and clear anything that shouldn’t be in there — use a towel or tray to catch the water when you open it up. If your machine isn’t draining, this is the first thing to check before calling for a repair.

Limit your washer's spin speed
Keep this to 1200rpm, even if your machine goes up to 1400 or even 1600rpm. Higher speeds reduce the life of belts, drum bearings and door seals, without removing much more water.

Don’t use fabric softener with laundry detergent
Fabric softeners react to create a waxy residue called “scrud”. No one wants “scrud” – especially as it clings to unseen parts of the machine, such as under the agitator. If blobs break free, they can leave greasy marks on laundry.

Regularly clean the detergent dispenser
Check the manual to see how to remove it, and wash it thoroughly in warm soapy water.

Clean the door seal
Remove water from the door seal after each wash (if you notice mould, wipe the rubber seal with hot water and detergent). Between washes, leave the door and detergent dispenser open – that lets the interior dry.

Use the service cycle
Many machines have a specific “service” or “cleaning” cycle. It helps your machine smell fresh, prevents detergent build-up, and keeps it cleaning at its best.

If your machine doesn’t have a service cycle, run a hot wash with a full-strength powder detergent once a month.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...

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Closer to home, alongside her son-in-law and daughter, she has discovered a variety of restaurants that showcase the diversity of New Zealand’s culinary scene. Whether you’re planning a road trip, dreaming about your next cruise, or simply searching for a great dining spot, these are Pamela’s top food recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

Click read more for the full story.

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11 days ago

Moe mai rā, Nicholas.

Justin Wong Reporter from The Post

We're sad to announce the passing of Nicholas Boyack, our Hutt Valley reporter who has long written for The Dominion Post, The Hutt News and Upper Hutt Leader.

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K
5 days ago

Begonia house to be demolished at botanic gardens

Karl from Alicetown

It's outrageous that the Wellington City Council are going to demolish the Begonia house at the Botanic gardens. This is an asset. One would have thought the green faction of the council would have supported fixing it. It's strange no one has questioned the price required to fix it. Cycle ways more important than begonia house i think not