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Washer Service and Repair
Prior to the advent washing machines, clothes were washed by hand, which was a laborious process. Washing machines were invented and patented as early as 1691 in England. These units were little more than wooden tubs that rotated, powered by a hand crank, with textured sides that required the user to push the clothes against the sides with a stick to create agitation. This method was crude, but still more effective than washing by hand.
As the design continued to evolve, wood was replaced by metal which allowed the tubs to be suspended over an open flame, or an enclosed fire chamber, which raised the temperature of the wash water for more effective washes. Soon after designs began incorporating wringer mechanisms to complete the "clothes washing" process. Electric powered washing machines were first advertised in newspapers as early as 1904. While almost 1 million units of various designs were shipped in the early 20th century, the Great Depression beverly curtailed sales.
In the 1930's, the washing machine went through an evolutionary change. Mechanisms were enclosed in cabinets, and greater attention was paid to mechanical and electrical safety. In 1937, Bendix Home Appliances introduced the first domestic automatic washing machine. Their design was, in both appearance and mechanical design, very similar to modern front loading washing machines. Unfortunately, their design lacked certain features of modern units, requiring that the units be bolted to the floor to prevent "walking" because of their lack fo suspension, and due to its mechanical components was very expensive.
During World War 2, domestic production of washers was suspended in favor of the war effort. While all production was suspended, US manufacturers were allowed to research and develop future machines during the war years, and most developed automatic units believing them to be the future of the industry. After the war, production of these new timer controlled automatic units went into full swing, and by 1953, despite the high cost of the units, manufacturers had trouble keeping up with demand, and sales exceeded that of the early "wringer" type units.
Since the late 1970's, the design of the units has evolved mainly to make the washers less expensive to produce; expensive electromechanical timers and gearboxes were replaced with microcontrollers and variable speed electronic motors. Since the mid-1990's, units have become more efficient and many models and manufacturers have Energy Star ratings. The majority of modern washing machines utilize "High Efficiency" detergents, and only as much water as necessary to wash the garments. With this push for efficiency, many high end units are considered "Smart" through computer control, as well as having the ability to control units via smart phones or computers via WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
As with all modern appliances, the modern washer requires regular washer maintenance. The majority of manufacturers allow for user serviceability and maintenance, but not all. Those units that are not user serviceable still require regular washer maintenance, but also require professional service from time to time.
Does your Washer need Maintenance, Service or Repair? We're here to help. Simply call us at (818) 791-0445, we'll answer any questions you may have or to schedule a Service Call today. We have the experience and expertise necessary to service and repair all major washer brands including the following: