An In-Depth FAQ for Washer and Dryer Owners in Tarzana

• How do you fix a washing machine that won’t drain?
  A washing machine that fails to drain is one of the most common appliance problems. The first and most likely cause is a simple clog. Most front-loading washing machines have a small filter for the drain pump, located behind an access panel on the front of the machine. This filter is designed to catch coins, lint, and other small items before they can damage the pump. If this filter becomes completely blocked, water cannot exit the machine. Carefully cleaning this filter often resolves the issue.
  
  If the filter is clear, the problem may be a blockage in the drain hose itself, or the drain pump motor may have failed. Another common culprit, especially on top-loading machines, is a faulty lid switch. For safety, the washer is programmed not to enter the final high-speed spin cycle (which is part of the draining process) if the lid is not securely closed. If the switch that detects this is broken, the machine will stop before it drains and spins. A professional technician can safely inspect the pump, hoses, and electrical components to accurately identify the obstruction or failure.
• Why is my dryer running but not heating?
  This is the single most frequent dryer issue, and the cause depends on whether you have a gas or an electric model. In an electric dryer, the problem is almost always a burned-out heating element. This is a large coil of wire that glows red hot to produce heat, and it can physically break or short out over time. Another common cause is a blown thermal fuse, a safety device that cuts power to the heating circuit if the dryer overheats, which is often a sign of a clogged vent.
  
  In a gas dryer, the issue is typically a failed gas valve solenoid or a faulty igniter. The igniter is a small, fragile component that glows to ignite the gas from the valve. If it’s weak or broken, no heat will be produced. A professional technician must perform these repairs, as they involve either high-voltage electricity or a gas line. They will not only replace the faulty component but also investigate the root cause, such as a clogged vent, to ensure the dryer operates both effectively and safely.
• What causes a washing machine to start leaking from the bottom?
  A leaking washing machine can cause significant water damage, so it’s a problem that needs immediate attention. Leaks can originate from several sources. The most common are the water inlet hoses that connect the machine to your home’s water supply. Check the connections at both the wall and the machine to ensure they are tight and that the rubber washers have not failed. The drain hose can also be a source of leaks if it is not properly secured in the standpipe or if it has developed a crack.
  
  If the hoses are not the problem, the leak is likely coming from a component within the machine itself. The drain pump is a frequent culprit, as its seals can wear out over time, causing water to drip out during the drain cycle. On a front-loading machine, the large rubber door boot seal can get torn, causing water to leak from the front of the machine. In more serious cases, the tub itself or the tub seal could have failed. A technician can methodically trace the source of the leak to identify the failing component.
• Is it worth repairing a 10-year-old washer or dryer?
  This is a very practical question that many homeowners face. In a great number of cases, repairing a 10-year-old washer or dryer is a very sensible and worthwhile decision. Laundry appliances, particularly well-made models from reputable brands, often have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years or even more. Many of the most common failures—such as a broken dryer belt, a faulty washer drain pump, or a dryer heating element—involve parts that are not overly difficult to replace and can give the appliance many more years of reliable service.
  
  The decision often comes down to the nature of the problem and the brand’s reputation. A simple mechanical repair on a durable, well-built machine is almost always a good choice. However, if the appliance has had multiple previous repairs or if the problem involves a very complex and major electronic component like the main control board or a transmission on a washer, you may want to weigh your options. Our technicians can provide an honest assessment of your appliance’s condition and the nature of the required repair to help you make an informed decision.