My new tenants have just moved in and are complaining that they can’t use the washing machine due to the mould in the seal and would like it replaced. (I hadn’t even noticed this and have been using the machine no problem for 5 years)
They have said they have tried to clean it but expect the mould is within the drum and machine itself so is unsafe to use for their toddler.
I am not prepared to replace a perfectly good washing machine but have said I will get it cleaned/and or replaced seal. Am I being unreasonable? Alternatively I will say they are able to purchase their own, if mine is not good enough but then who pays for removal and disposal of mine? Not sure how to progress without causing bad feeling on either side? Photo to show mould.
It’s for you to decide if a new machine or part is required. A tenants job is to report a problem. Their requests are ridiculous by demanding a new machine.
Just clean or swap seal.
If you agree for them to swap the machine then technically they should pay for costs of removing yours. It could be sold though so no costs?
Thanks - they are also only there for 6 months so I think it is unreasonable to replace too. Its my first rental so just wanted to double check. Thanks
Seal are not expensive, so for goodwill, you could have it replaced.
Alternatively, clean with mould cleaner, and then make sure they know to leave the door open after each cycle, and if they wish to wipe dry the seal after each use, as mould will always grow in a warm & humid place.
I certainly would not be replacing the machine. Their speculation of mould being within the drum is unreasonable, as the drum is washed every wash, whereas the seal is a trap for moisure. you cannot replace a machine based upon speculation that there ‘might be’ a problem.
If they wish to install their own machine, and store yours & reinstall it when they leave, then that would be fine.
Thank you - my thoughts too!
You can either soak the seal in bleach overnight and then wash in a vinegar cycle at 90 degrees celsius or replace seal
It will come off with elbow grease after the 90 degree cycle
Repeat if necessary
The heat and vinegar loosen the lime and it costs nothing !!
Washing machines should be washed in vinegar at 90 degrees then with soda crystals at 90degrees at least every three months to avoid these problems
Next time put a clause into contract making it the tenants responsibility
you should tell them to wash the soap compartment regularly and the water jets above the soap compartment so they don’t get clogged
You certainly don’t need to replace the washing machine
You should make sure this is cleaned before every tenant changeover. Empty the trap, clean the seals, run a cycle with a washing machine cleaner. I’m amazed you wouldn’t do this.
I stopped providing washing machines. I appreciate it may depend on how much you are charging and the type of tenants you wish to attract.
I replaced a w/m twice in 3 years and had repair company twice during that time.
My w/m last 15-20 years
The older ones did 20 ( they usually fail PAT testing so I have to dispose of them ) now they do about 15 yrs
I go in every year and wash the w/m one alkali cycle then one acid cycle at 90
I wash the soap compartment
I make the tenants do it during tenancy
I had problems in lockdown because no one was cleaning the jets
The biggest problem is stuff left in pockets but the tenants are liable as per their contract
I always make sure washing machine and dishwasher are perfectly clean!!
Seems like they’re nitpicking. Every machine I’ve ever had / used has had this issue.
Bleach / mould remove did nothing, which makes me think it’s unlikely to come off in a wash.
I have been told by a washing machine repairman that the seals aren’t very easy to replace. Worth checking just in case.
This advice from a washing machine repair person many years ago. I’ve stuck with it and have two machines running perfectly for 20 and 15 years with zero smell or mould. Only things that have ever needed replacing are the carbon brushes for the motors which you can do easily yourself if you search YouTube and eBay.
- Put soda crystals in with every wash (delicates too). Works just like Calgon but much cheaper and has ZERO effect on your clothes texture or colour. You can use less washing detergent too.
- Only use washing powder. Liquid and gel tablets stick to the innards of your machine and mould feeds on the residue.
- Depending on how often you use your machine, you should run a 90C empty drum wash every 3 months or so. You do not need any chemicals or detergent with it. 90C water will kill pretty much anything that was alive in your machine.
- always leave the door ajar when not using the machine.
The mould marks in your seal are absolutely nothing to worry about. Run a 90C wash and then use the advice above.