Washing Machines Can Make Apartment Living Easy

If you’re lucky enough to live in an apartment that includes a washing machine, you know just how incredibly convenient it can be. No lugging baskets overflowing with clothes and heavy bottles of detergent down flights of stairs to the apartment complex laundry room or nearest laundromat only to find that the washers are all in use or are out of order. You can do laundry whenever you want without having to leave home. Now that’s the good life!

Washing Machine Hookups

While your apartment may not come with its own washing machine, it may have washer hookups available. Usually found in a utility closet, washer and dryer hookups make it possible for you to set up a washing machine and a dryer, since they require more than just a simple electrical outlet. Typically, an apartment complex will advertise their units or some of their units as having “washer and dryer hookups.” This may be a good thing to ask about before you sign the lease. Ask them for details about setting up a washing machine. You’ll also need to know if the hookups and space require the washing machine to be stackable. Many apartment complexes will rent you a washer and dryer if you don’t already have one. Be sure to ask your apartment manager about this option if you’re interested in leasing a washer and dryer.

Washer Tips

With a washing machine in your apartment, you’ve got serious convenience. It’s no doubt a great amenity. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your apartment’s washer:

• Be courteous of your neighbors. They may be able to hear your washing machine through the floor or wall when it’s running, so you may not want to do laundry late at night or very early in the morning.
• Never use more detergent than what’s recommended on the detergent bottle. Using too much can lead to a big, soapy, wet mess.
• Don’t leave your apartment while the washer is running. If it overflows or malfunctions, you need to be there to take care of the situation.
• To use your washer efficiently and avoid wasting water, it’s recommended that you only do laundry when you have enough for a full load. Washing just one T-shirt can be a huge waste of energy and water.
• If you have a roommate, don’t leave your clothes just sitting in the washer for too long after they’re done, as your roommate might also want to do laundry.
• Very large comforters, blankets and rugs can potentially damage a washing machine. You may want to consider taking these items to a laundromat where they have oversize washers available.
• If you suspect your washer is broken or not working correctly, put in a maintenance request at your apartment manager office. (Of course, if you own the washer, it’s your responsibility to keep it in working order.)
• Check your dryer’s lint filter regularly. Clogged lint filters cause your dryer to run much less efficiently – and are a leading cause of household fires.

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