Is it possible to run an empty washing machine?

Many people are unsure about whether running an empty washing machine is safe or even advantageous. When you want to clean away detergent residue, eliminate smells, or freshen up the machine, this question frequently comes up.

Although it may not seem necessary, running an empty cycle can really keep your washing machine in good working order. It’s an easy and quick method to make sure your appliance remains clean and performs well.

We’ll look at the benefits of running an empty washing machine, when to do it, and why it can extend the life of your appliance in this post.

In order to keep the washing machine in good operating order, it can be helpful to occasionally run the machine empty. This helps remove dirt, odors, and detergent residue that can accumulate over time.

Rules for the first launch

When starting the machine for the first time or after completing a cycle of laundry, experts advise leaving it idle for at least two minutes. It is best not to skip the "test run" if you can continue without cleaning the drum. This is very easily explained: without endangering your personal property, you must inspect the machinery and remove the factory grease.

No one cleans the washing machine in a store before selling it, not even the most renowned and costly ones. As a result, the items placed inside the drum will quickly become stained by technical oils and debris that remain after production and testing. The initial empty wash will assist in preventing needless issues. To maximize the effectiveness of the first start, you should adhere to the guidelines.

  1. Without loading the laundry, close the hatch door of the machine.
  2. Pour the detergent into the tray. It can be any powder or gel intended for machine washing and marked "automatic" on the label. Hand washing mixtures are prohibited, since these compounds cause increased foaming. It is also allowed to wash first with a special cleaner that can remove factory grease faster and more efficiently (specific examples are given below).

It is sufficient to use half the detergent dosage for an empty cycle.

  1. Connect the equipment to the electricity directly, without using tees and extension cords.
  2. Select a program. It is advisable to stop at a long mode with strong heating of water, for example, "Cotton 60".

It is now necessary to verify that the washing machine you purchased operates as intended. To accomplish this, watch the washing process rather than getting out of the machine. Normal operation will be indicated by the following indicators:

  • The drum spins gradually, changes the direction of movement, accelerates during spinning and slows down when draining water.
  • The water has heated up within 10 minutes after starting the machine (the hatch door should warm up significantly).
  • No visible leaks.
  • There are no extraneous knocks and no increased vibration.

In the event that the machine exhibits any malfunction, you will need to manually empty the emergency drain, disconnect the unit from the power source, and press the "Start/Cancel" button. After that, notify the technical support center of the issue right away, and wait for the technician to arrive.

Remember to get the machine’s warranty card and related paperwork ready so the technician can do diagnostics at no cost to you. However, a free check can only be performed in the event that all installation and connection guidelines are adhered to and the transport bolts are removed on schedule. The most important thing to remember is that attempting to solve the issue on your own will only make matters worse.

A product for "blank" washing

Special consideration needs to be given to the detergent. There are situations when the oil and bad smell from leftover grease are so tough to remove that ordinary powders are unable to handle them. Then a specialized technical cleaner, Helfer Start HLR0054, will save the day.

Strong surfactants found in Helfer Start HLR0054 can remove grease from metal surfaces and remove fuel oil, oil, carbon deposits, limescale, and other debris from the washing machine’s drum and internal components. This means that extra grease can be disposed of in just one cycle. The product’s adaptability, which lets you use the powder in any machine model, is another nice feature. It is also simple to use.

  1. Pour the powder into the main compartment of the tray (there is no need to measure the dosage, since one package is designed for one cycle).
  2. Set a mode such as "Cotton 60".
  3. Start washing.

No more than one cycle is needed. It’s important to take your time and avoid switching on the mode too quickly. You can load a load of laundry safely and worry-free about the quality of the wash after the program is finished.

Action Can I run an empty washing machine?
Cleaning the Drum Yes, running an empty wash helps clean the drum, removing detergent residue and odors.
Saving Energy No, running an empty machine wastes water and electricity if not done for maintenance purposes.
Frequency It’s okay to do it occasionally, but not too often, as it can be unnecessary unless cleaning the machine.
Using Vinegar or Cleaner Yes, adding vinegar or a washing machine cleaner during an empty cycle can improve cleaning effectiveness.

The benefits of running an empty washing machine are numerous. It aids in deodorizing the drum and other internal parts and stops the accumulation of detergent residue.

Regularly performing this ensures that your washing machine runs well and extends its life. It’s a straightforward maintenance procedure that, over time, can have a significant impact.

To get the best results when running an empty cycle, don’t forget to use the appropriate settings, a small amount of detergent, or a specific cleaning product made for washing machines.

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How often do you conduct maintenance of your washing machine (cleaning filters, drum, and t.d.)?
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Dmitry Kuznetsov

Technical consultant and blogger. I have always been passionate about technology and enjoy learning how various equipment works. On this site I share my knowledge about washing machines, offer advice on caring for them and talk about new products on the market.

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