Step-by-Step Guide to Maintain Your Laundry Machines for Longevity

Commercial laundry machines work hard daily, handling load after load to keep your operations running smoothly. But without proper maintenance, even the best commercial washers and dryers can lose efficiency, drive up energy costs, and break down more often. Regular maintenance keeps these machines operating efficiently, helping reduce downtime, extend their lifespan, and avoid costly repairs.

Luckily, maintaining your laundry machines doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps can keep them in top shape and prevent unnecessary breakdowns. Let’s walk through a step-by-step maintenance guide, giving you the best practices for maintaining your laundry equipment.

Read & Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Every laundry machine comes with a user manual outlining specific maintenance instructions. The document details proper detergent usage, recommended load sizes, and ideal water settings for optimal performance. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to excessive wear and tear, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of breakdowns.

Manufacturers like Dexter also specify when certain parts, such as filters and hoses, should be replaced. Following maintenance schedules enables smooth operation and prevents unexpected failures. Most brands offer digital versions on their websites if a physical copy of the manual is unavailable.

Keep the Machine Clean Inside and Out

A clean machine performs better and lasts longer. Over time, dirt, detergent residue, and lint buildup can build up, affecting performance and hygiene.

To clean the machine’s outside components, wipe down the control panel, door, and outer surface daily with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Regular cleaning keeps buttons responsive and prevents residue from clogging electronic components.

For the interior, clean detergent dispensers weekly to prevent clogs. The washer drum should also be wiped down and sanitized monthly using a machine cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and hot water. Regular cleaning helps prevent odors and ensures optimal washing results.

Dryers require extra attention—always clean the lint filter after every cycle to maintain airflow and prevent overheating. A clogged lint filter reduces drying efficiency and poses a fire hazard.

Inspect Hoses and Connections

Water hoses are a common source of leaks, which can lead to serious water damage if ignored. Check hoses regularly for:

• Cracks, bulges, or signs of wear
• Loose connections at the back of the machine
• Any signs of leaking around hose fittings

If a hose shows signs of damage, replace it immediately. Even if it looks fine, it's best to swap out hoses every 3 to 5 years since they naturally weaken over time. Also, check for kinks—restricted water flow can put unnecessary strain on the machine’s pump, leading to bigger issues down the line.

Maintain the Drain Pump and Filters

The drain pump is responsible for removing water after each wash cycle. If it becomes clogged, it can cause drainage issues, musty odors, or even machine failure.

Most commercial laundry machines have filters that catch lint, buttons, and debris. The filter should be checked and cleaned at least once a month. If the machine doesn’t have an accessible filter, refer to the manual for drain pump maintenance instructions.

Ignoring drain maintenance can lead to standing water inside the drum, increasing wear on internal components. Routine cleaning allows for proper drainage and prevents unpleasant odors.

Check Belts, Bearings, and Seals

The belts and bearings inside a washing machine keep the drum spinning efficiently. However, these components can wear out over time, leading to unusual noises, excessive vibration, or operational failures.

Common warning signs of a failing belt or bearing include:

• A high-pitched squeaking or grinding noise during cycles
• The drum wobbled excessively
• A burning smell, indicating belt friction

Inspect these components regularly, and if you notice any issues, schedule a replacement before they cause significant damage. 

Ensure Proper Ventilation for Dryers

Proper ventilation is essential for commercial dryers. A clogged vent restricts airflow, forcing the machine to work harder, increasing energy costs, and potentially posing a fire risk.

To maintain ventilation:

• Clean the lint filter after every cycle to maintain proper airflow
• Inspect and clean the external vent monthly to prevent blockages
• Check for overheating signs, such as longer drying times or a burning smell

If clothes take longer to dry than usual, it may indicate a clogged vent. Routine cleaning keeps the dryer running efficiently and extends the life of its heating elements.

Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

Even with routine upkeep, some maintenance tasks require professional expertise. A trained technician can inspect internal components, calibrate sensors, and perform deep cleaning that extends the lifespan of your laundry machines.

Key benefits of professional maintenance include:

• Early detection of potential issues before they cause major failures
• Improved energy efficiency, reducing operating costs
• Extended machine lifespan through expert servicing

From simple cleaning routines to professional inspections, every maintenance step contributes to longer-lasting, more efficient equipment that guarantees the continuous operation of your laundry facility. 

Tired of Maintenance Headaches? That’s Where Dexter Comes In

While many commercial laundry machines require frequent service or are difficult to maintain, Dexter Laundry equipment is built differently, specifically to reduce maintenance hassles.

If you've ever dealt with hard-to-access parts, complex repairs, or repeated breakdowns, you'll appreciate how Dexter brings maintenance down to a science. These machines are designed with both operators and service technicians in mind, offering benefits like:

• Simple Access to Key Components – Service panels open quickly for easy troubleshooting and part replacement.
• Fewer Moving Parts – Dexter minimizes wear points, which means fewer breakdowns over time.
• Stainless Steel Build – Resists rust, detergent residue, and wear, keeping machines cleaner and more hygienic.
• Self-Diagnostics – Advanced controls monitor machine health and alert users to problems before they escalate.
• Efficient Airflow & Venting – Especially in dryers, this helps prevent lint buildup and overheating.

Whether you're operating a small facility or a large-scale laundry room, Dexter gives you the power of performance without the pain of constant upkeep. It’s no surprise that many businesses are switching to Dexter to save time, labor, and repair costs.

Reliable Laundry Machine Maintenance by AAdvantage Laundry Systems

Your laundry machines need regular maintenance from experienced professionals to maximize efficiency and longevity. The knowledgeable technicians at AAdvantage Laundry Systems offer expert servicing, preventative maintenance plans, and quick repairs to keep your equipment performing at its best.

As an authorized Dexter Laundry equipment distributor, we also provide industry-leading washers and dryers that are designed for low-maintenance performance and long-term reliability.

Complete our service request form or contact us to schedule a maintenance service!