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Category: Maintenance

Commercial Washer and Dryer Preventative Maintenance: The Importance

Posted on by Will Hershfeld

Did you know a commercial dryer has a lifespan between 10 and 15 years? This lifespan can be extended with commercial washer and dryer preventative maintenance.

Commercial washers and dryers are essential pieces of equipment for any business, but they require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.

Without preventative maintenance, these machines can break down unexpectedly, leading to costly repairs and downtime that could have been avoided with proper care.

Fortunately, there is a way to ensure your washers and dryers stay in top condition – commercial washer and dryer preventative maintenance.

Keep reading because in this article we will discuss the importance of preventive maintenance for your commercial laundry equipment so you can keep it running at its best and start preventing washer damage.

Benefits of a Commercial Washer and Dryer Maintenance Routine

If you are a business owner with commercial washers and dryers, you understand the importance of keeping these machines in optimal working order. Let’s look at them now:

Reduce Breakdowns

Commercial washers and dryers are expensive pieces of equipment that can be prone to breaking down. By conducting preventative maintenance, you can significantly reduce the number of breakdowns experienced by your machines and save money on repairs.

Improved Efficiency

Regular maintenance can help improve the efficiency of your machines by ensuring they are operating at their optimal performance level. This will allow them to complete more cycles in less time, resulting in cost savings for your business.

Longer Machine Life

Regular dryer inspections not only reduce machine downtime but also improves its lifespan as well. The more regularly they are maintained, the longer they will last and therefore save you money on replacements or upgrades over time.

Enhanced Safety

By performing regular checks, you can ensure that your washers and dryers remain safe for use. This will reduce the risk of harm, like dryer fires, to customers or employees. It will also help protect your business from any potential liabilities.

Best Way to Keep Your Washers and Dryers in Good Condition

Now that you know the importance of commercial washer and dryer preventative maintenance, what is the best way to keep them in good condition? Let’s look at them now:

Clean Out the Lint Trap

It is important to regularly clean out the lint trap of your washers and dryers as this can be a major cause of breakdowns. Make sure to check it frequently and remove any lint or debris that has accumulated.

Check Machine Parts

Take some time every few months to inspect all the parts of your machine, including hoses, seals, and valves. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or corrosion, which may indicate a need for repair or replacement.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Have a qualified technician perform regular maintenance checks on your machines every six months or so to ensure they are safe and working properly. This will help you catch any issues early, which can save you money in the long run.

Hire Commercial Washer and Dryer Preventative Maintenance

To keep your business running smoothly, your commercial dryers must be in good working condition. No matter how well you take care of your machine, there’s bound to be an issue or two occasionally.

The best thing to do when one of your machines starts acting funny is to call for a commercial washer and dryer preventative maintenance. That way the issues are fixed quickly and business can resume as normal.

Our team of professionals is ready to help you with all your commercial dry needs. Contact us here with all your questions and concerns.

3 Warning Signs Your Commercial Dryer Needs Repair

Posted on by Will Hershfeld

A commercial dryer has an average lifespan of between 10 and 15 years.

However, during that time your dryer will likely need a few repairs to keep it running efficiently. There are several signs that you need to be aware of, so you can call for a commercial dryer repair right away.

Continue reading so you can save yourself some time and money in the future if your commercial dry starts to act up.

1. Burning Smell

There are several reasons why a burning smell could be coming from your commercial dryer. The first thing you should do is turn the machine off; you do not want to risk a fire.

Then check to see if there is any lint build-up. After you check and see there is lint, you can gather it with your hands. You can also clear it out using a vacuum if there is too much.

If the burning smell continues, there may be an issue with the temperature gauge. If the thermostat is still reading a low or normal number, but your machine is overheating, you will need to call a dryer repair company to fix the broken component.

Another reason for the unusual odor could be due to melting rubber. If the dryer belt has loosened, it may have come in contact with the heating mechanism of the dryer. You will need to call for a repair right away before using your machine again if that’s the case.

2. Long Drying Times

The last thing you want is for you or your customers to open up the dry only to find that the laundry is still wet. A commercial dryer should dry the items fairly quickly. You should not have to restart it multiple times to get your clothes fully dry.

If you notice the machine is taking longer to dry laundry, it is time to call a professional dryer repair company. The fix could be a simple issue. For example, the lint trap could be full or the vent hose may be blocked.

However, the issue could be more extensive. There is a good chance if it is taking the laundry a long time to dry that there is an issue with the heating components of your machine. This issue requires commercial dryer repair services from a professional.

3. Abnormal Sounds

An abnormal sound coming from your dryer is a good indicator that you need to call for a repair. There could be an issue with the dryer drum or the motor.

Whether it is a thumping, grinding, or squealing noise, it is best to call a pro as soon as possible so the issue does not continue to get worse.

Commercial Dryer Repair

To keep your business running smoothly, it is crucial that your commercial dryers are in good working condition. No matter how well you take care of your machine, there is bound to be an issue or two every once in a while.

The best thing to do when one of your machines starts acting funny is to call for a commercial dryer repair. That way the fixes of issues happen quickly and business can resume as normal.

Our team of professionals is ready to help you with all your commercial dry needs. Contact us here with all your questions and concerns.

5 Hidden Costs of Maintaining an On-Premise Laundry Room for Residents

Posted on by FMB Laundry

Did you know that you should wash your white shirts after every single wear? Gym clothes should also be washed after every wear and jeans after every five wears.

Laundry facilities on premises can make the life of residents easier. If you are considering on-site facilities, keep in mind that laundry room installation costs can be higher than you anticipate because of hidden costs.

It’s not just about the cost of your equipment. Before you make a decision to maintain an on-premises laundry room, keep on reading to understand all the hidden costs.

1. Cost of Space

First, consider the cost of the space. Your communal laundry room will need its own space. If you don’t have any space, you will need to spend money on renovations to create the space.

The renovations will involve wiring and plumbing, and sometimes a complete overhaul of your premises. It also includes potential upgrades in the future to accommodate changing needs.

2. Laundry Room Repair Costs

The cost of a laundry room includes repair costs when the equipment breaks down. Even the toughest commercial laundry facilities will have to deal with repair costs. Repair costs for a washing machine include the labor costs, cost of replacement parts, and the brand of the washing machine at an average cost of $50 to $180.

3. Ongoing Laundry Room Maintenance

To avoid repair costs, you will want to conduct ongoing maintenance to ensure that your equipment runs well. This can save you money in the long term, including damage to your building caused by leaks. Ongoing maintenance includes replacing water hoses, cleaning filters, and cleaning the equipment.

4. Utilities

You will also have to deal with utility costs, including water and electricity. These costs will increase as your equipment ages, or your equipment breaks down.

The cost will also vary depending on usage. While a portion of the utilities can be offset by the profits, inefficient machines can end up increasing this cost.

5. Liability Insurance

Your on-premise laundry facilities can lead to damage to your building, including water damage, fire, and vandalism. To protect your commercial property from these damages, you want to make sure that you have the right coverage with liability insurance. You can also get sued if someone gets hurt in your laundry room.

However, this will add to the cost of your laundry room. The premiums that you pay will depend on the age of your equipment, the number of apartments and residents, and the location of the building. You can get coverage for property damage, loss of income, equipment breakdown, and sewer backup.

Contact Us for Your Laundry Room Solutions

You now know all about the hidden costs of a laundry room. It’s not just the cost of the equipment that you have to keep in mind, but the cost of the space, repair costs, and ongoing maintenance.

Contact us to find your laundry room solution today.  We provide coin-operated equipment and services while offering generous commission and flexible lease terms. With our top-quality service, you don’t have to inconvenience residents or lose out on profits with equipment that doesn’t work properly.

Different Fabrics Demand Different Care

Posted on by FMB Laundry

If it seems that clothing material is becoming more specialized and blended, you are absolutely correct. The old days of natural fibers have given way to new-age fabrics that challenge your ability to clean them properly. It is one thing to wash a single garment incorrectly and a whole other problem when you wash an entire load incorrectly. If you have a more extensive operation and you are cleaning for teams, groups of employees, or multiple residents, you cannot afford to make a mistake that ruins dozens of clothing articles simultaneously.

A Few Simple Guidelines for Fabric

With all the different types of fabrics found in clothing and household items, it may seem like you need to take a class on how to handle each one. Some fabrics require very little maintenance, while others are so delicate that one mistake can ruin the garment’s integrity. Knowing how to handle different materials will help you understand what to do to clean them safely. If it makes it easier, creating a chart and placing it near the washer and dryers within your property can help you and others remember how to care for their most delicate fabrics. Here is a list of different materials and how to wash them properly:

  • Cotton is the king of natural fibers, soft, absorbent, lightweight, and blendable. It is typically used for garments worn against the skin, and it can be washed in hot or cold water and tumble dried. Remove immediately to prevent wrinkles.
  • Linen is a natural fiber woven from flax and often used in bedding. It is durable but easily stained, and it should be washed in cold water and preferably air-dried. If tumbled, use the lowest heat setting.
  • Polyester is a stretchable, durable synthetic often blended and used in uniforms and outerwear. Wash in cold water, do not bleach, and tumble dry with low or medium heat.
  • Acetate is a soft, pliable synthetic. Make sure you do not overheat it. It should always be hand washed and air dried only.
  • Wool is an animal-based fabric that is used primarily for outerwear. It should be hand washed and air dried with no exposure to heat.
  • Silk is a highly delicate fabric to wash, and it’s better to hand wash it in cool water or machine wash in a delicate setting. Immediately after washing, you have the option to hang dry or tumble-dried on a cool setting.

The Most Important Guideline

Caring for your fabrics is crucial when you want them to last. If you notice that similar problems develop with your larger loads of laundry, then it may have to do with faulty equipment. To prevent your garments from shrinking or getting destroyed, contact a professional to inspect your laundry services. This can help pinpoint any issues and avoid any further damage to clothing and machines in the future.

For your future commercial laundry room needs, contact FMB Laundry by calling 410-324-3654 or email us to learn how we can help you set up your on-premise laundry services today!

Budget Now for Upgraded Laundry Services

Posted on by FMB Laundry

In any given apartment community, laundry service can be a huge pain for property managers. From outdated appliances to broken-down equipment, replacing or even upgrading them can be a huge cost. However, it’s important to factor this in because residents are looking for a clean, well-lit facility with state-of-the-art appliances. For many, the question is why should I include this in the yearly budget?

The Added Importance of Updated Laundry Services

With the recent pandemic, there is a new model placed for cleanliness and sanitation in the laundry industry. Clothes not only need to be clean; they also need to be disinfected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set guidelines that should be considered the new standard for laundry staff and the equipment when face with washing bedsheets and garments for others:

  • Separate areas should be maintained for unwashed and washed clothing.
  • Those washing and drying should employ PPE to avoid contact with potentially contaminated clothes.
  • Washing clothes in 160º water for 25 minutes should be sufficient to eliminate any microbes.
  • Extra care should be taken to prevent cleaned clothing from contamination before wearing.

The Ecological Way to Wash Clothing

Of course, the prevention of spreading a virus is one reason for upgrading to a high-quality laundry machine. Another has to do with advancements in energy-efficient machines. High-efficiency washers use 25% less energy and 33% less water than regular washers. Of course, this depends on the washer capacity, load size, cycle type, etc. but, regular washers will use anywhere between 14-20 gallons of water per load. For the average household that runs between 4-6 loads a week, that’s over 5,000 gallons of water a year! Talk about a costly water bill. By using an energy-efficient washer you are not only lowering your overall water bill cost but also lowering the amount of water used every year.

On-site and multi-family laundry services need to utilize state-of-the-art equipment to meet today’s ecological and sanitation standards. To find the best available appliances and get them economically, contact FMB Laundry by calling 410-324-3654 or emailing us.

Secrets to Longer Lasting Clothing

Posted on by FMB Laundry

They are your clothes. You would think you know them. In truth, however, as often as you have worn them, your clothes have kept some secrets from you. The good news is, as you find out what they are hiding, it will allow you to extend their lives—sometimes almost indefinitely. Make sure you like new clothes when you buy them since using these laundry tips will make them part of your lives for a long time.

Laundry Hacks to Make Your Clothes Last

Some of these may make sense to you, while others may seem counterintuitive. Give them a try and see if your clothes thank you for looking attractive and feeling comfortable a lot longer:

  • Wash in cold water except for towels and soiled whites. Warm water fades, shrinks, and is more abrasive.
  • The more detergent you use, the faster your clothes age. For most loads, a tablespoon will suffice.
  • Turn your dark clothes inside out as well as your clothes with decals. Colors rub against other exteriors and fade.
  • If you have a stain, soak it in cold water and spray it. There is no need to add more detergent for the whole load.
  • Take your time drying wet clothes. Use the “delicate” cycle, which ensures lower temps.
  • Avoid the dry cleaner, which exposes your clothes to abrasive chemicals. Place delicates in a mesh bag and use cold water and a gentle setting.

Smart Tech Comes to the Laundry Room

While we are discussing smart ways to wash your clothes, you may be interested in knowing that smart tech has found its way to the laundry room. You can utilize washers and dryers by programming your smartphone with the help of FMB Laundry, which provides smart equipment for residents of colleges, multi-family homes, and more. You can check us out on our website or give us a call at (800) 832-6193.

Make Doing Laundry Stress-Free

Posted on by FMB Laundry

Laundry room etiquette can be a new concept or unclear for some people that use a communal laundry room. The most basic rule in the laundry room is to treat others with respect. There are some dos and don’ts of laundry room etiquette that will save you from having to deal with any bother or headaches while doing laundry in your building!

Be Timely

First and foremost, do not leave your items in the washer/dryer for an extended period of time. This is rude to other residents and may result in your garments being removed and tossed aside before you return.

Instead, try and do laundry when you have the time to complete a load in both the washer and dryer. While it may take some effort to find the time, it is preferable to having your clothes become dirty as a result of being thrown away or accumulating mold as a result of being left in the washer for too long. With the Clothesline Mobile app, you will receive alerts when your laundry is done, making timeliness much easier to accomplish.

Be Patient

If a unit has been in use for a while, be patient. If a machine has been stopped for more than an hour and is still occupied, stack the clothing neatly or remove the garments inside and place them in a plastic grocery bag. Place them beside the machine in case they were placed there by a resident.

Be Prepared

It is important to be prepared when doing your laundry in a shared space. Be sure to have your SmartCard with you with enough money on it to do your laundry. Double-check that you have detergent before you head to the laundry room. If you get there and realize you forgot detergent, going back to grab it not only wastes time, but you might lose out on an available machine.

By using some common courtesy, you can make doing laundry in your building a stress-free experience. For more tips on creating a stress-free laundry environment, contact FMB Laundry today!

Preventative Maintenance Tips For Your Laundry Equipment

Posted on by FMB Laundry

Take your laundry room equipment to the next level by acknowledging that maintenance goes beyond just fixing what is broken. Investing in preventative maintenance for your commercial laundry equipment can go a long way. At FMB, we provide several maintenance options to prolong the life of your equipment. In addition to professional maintenance, monitoring your equipment is crucial to your laundry room’s overall health.

Clean Lint Filters

Ideally, lint filters should be cleaned out after every use or at the very least once a day. When lint builds up, the dryer has the potential to overheat.

Inspect Water Inlet Valve

There are water inlet valve connections on the back of most machines. While you can keep an eye out for leaks daily, but make sure they are thoroughly inspected at least once a month. If there are any cracks, deterioration, or blisters, the hose will need to be replaced as soon as possible.

Clean the Dryer

The condition of your equipment has a direct impact on how clean the laundry comes out. Sanitization can prevent the spread of disease and illness. It can also remove pesticides and petroleum chemicals. Extensive cleaning needs to be performed by a professional once a year.

Maintain the Door

One of the easiest daily tasks you can do is ensure that the door and its locks work. Test the doors at the end of each day, then leave the door open so that any moisture can evaporate. You should also be sure to clean the glass regularly with a damp cloth.

If you invest in simple maintenance for your commercial laundry machines, you can avoid more expensive problems down the line. Laundry equipment is expensive to replace, but with preventative maintenance, you can prolong the life of your washer and dryer. To learn more, contact FMB Laundry today by calling 410-324-3654 or sending us an email.

We Trust Speed Queen and So Should You

Posted on by FMB Laundry

When you look around, you’ll notice a lot of different types of washers and dryers. They come in various colors, multiple sizes, varying ways they function, and a variety of other differentiating features. At FMB Laundry, we stand by the Speed Queen brand and so should you.

Manufactured in the United States

By supporting a company that manufactures products in the United States, we’re supporting everyone in the country. Not only does it boost the economy to use Speed Queen machines, it makes servicing the machines easier too. If the machine does break down, it’s easier and quicker for us to get the parts we need.

Expected To Last 25 years

Sure there are a lot of machines with flashy features and modern designs, but they don’t often last as long as the Speed Queen. The Speed Queen washers and dryers are expected to last at least 25 years, offering 10,400 wash cycles before they wear out. This is why Speed Queen is great for college dorms, apartment buildings, and other areas where the machines may experience heavy, consistent use.

Capacity To Handle Large, Heavy Loads

Speed Queen doesn’t have the largest drum out of competing washers on the market, but they are large enough for horse blankets, King size comforters, and other big items such as those. If your load contains dense blankets or towels that you worry might become an unbalanced mass, don’t worry about it. The sturdy structure allows you to get all your biggest, heaviest loads done without a problem.

Contact Us

At FMB Laundry, we are focused on the laundry needs of multi-family units, medical buildings, college campuses, and more, and we trust Speed Queen with all of them. Call 410-324-3654 or email us today to learn more!