One of the most common maintenance requests we receive involves washing machines failing to drain. The good news? Most of these issues are 100% preventable. This guide will help you keep your laundry room running flawlessly.

The "Small Object" Problem

Modern high-efficiency (HE) washers, particularly brands like Samsung, are precision-engineered. While they are great for the environment, they are highly sensitive to foreign objects. Items as small as a hair tie or a coin can bypass the drum and lodge themselves in the drainage pump.

Common Culprits for Clogs:

• Hair Ties & Bobby Pins: These are the #1 cause of pump failures.

• Loose Change: Coins can chip the plastic impeller blades inside the pump.

• Tissues & Receipts: Paper breaks down into a thick pulp that suffocates the drainage sensors.

5 Proactive Tips for a Clog-Free Wash

To avoid the inconvenience of a flooded laundry room or a repair bill, follow these simple steps:

1. The 30-Second Pocket Sweep

Always check pockets before loading. A quick scan for keys, coins, and scraps of paper can save you from a major mechanical breakdown.

2. Use Mesh Laundry Bags

For small items like hair accessories, delicate lingerie, or reusable makeup pads, use a mesh laundry bag. This keeps them contained so they can’t "escape" into the machine's internal plumbing.

3. Clear the Debris Filter Monthly

Most front-load washers have a small access panel at the bottom front. Once a month, open this hatch, use the emergency drain tube to empty excess water, and unscrew the filter to rinse away lint and trapped objects.

4. Stick to "HE" Detergent

Using "Regular" soap in an HE machine creates "Sud-Lock"—a wall of bubbles that the pump cannot move. Always look for the HE symbol on your detergent and avoid using more than the recommended amount.

5. Mind the Load Capacity

Overloading puts extreme stress on the motor and suspension. For the best results, leave about a hand's width of space at the top of the drum so your clothes (and the water) can move freely.

Maintenance & Your Lease

At LuxOasis Living, we handle all mechanical failures resulting from normal wear and tear. However, it’s important to note that repairs caused by misuse or foreign objects (like hair ties or overloaded drums) are typically the responsibility of the resident.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you ensure your appliances remain reliable and your living experience remains stress-free.