Many people are afraid to run their washing machine empty, fearing the drum will become unbalanced if it's not loaded with the required amount of laundry. However, this approach is fundamentally flawed, as, on the contrary, "empty" runs are not only permitted but also necessary. We'll explain in detail below when it's best to remove items from the drum and which cycle to use.
First Launch Rules
Experts recommend running the machine empty in at least two cases: an additional cycle at the end of the wash cycle or when starting the machine for the first time. If you can still do without cleaning the drum, then it is better not to neglect the “test run”. The explanation is simple: you need to check the equipment and remove the factory grease without risking your personal belongings.
Even the most expensive and reputable stores won't clean your washing machine before selling it. Therefore, residual oils and dirt from production and testing can easily stain the items loaded in the drum. A first empty wash will help avoid unnecessary problems. For the best possible first run, follow the instructions.
Without loading the laundry, close the machine door.
Pour detergent into the detergent dispenser. Any powder or gel intended for machine washing and marked "machine" on the label can be used. Hand-washing detergents are prohibited, as they cause excessive foaming. You can also wash the garment first with a special cleaner, which can remove factory grease more quickly and thoroughly (see specific examples below).
For an empty cycle, half the dosage of detergent is sufficient.
We connect equipment to the electricity directly, without using tees or extension cords.
Select a program. It's best to choose a long cycle with high water temperature, such as "Cotton 60."
Now you need to check whether the washing machine you just purchased is working properly. To do this, don't leave the machine, but rather observe the washing process. The following signs will indicate proper operation:
The drum spins gradually, changes direction of movement, accelerates during spinning and slows down when draining water.
The water heated up within 10 minutes after starting the machine (the hatch door should become significantly warmer).
No visible leaks.
There are no extraneous knocks and no increased vibration.
If any malfunction is detected, press the "Start/Cancel" button, unplug the machine, and manually drain the water through the emergency drain. Then, immediately report the problem to the technical support center and wait for a technician to arrive.
Don't forget to have your warranty card and accompanying documentation ready so that a specialist can conduct a free diagnostic. However, a free inspection is only possible if all installation and connection rules are followed, and the transport bolts are removed in a timely manner. The main thing is not to try to fix the problem yourself, as inept experiments will only make the situation worse.
Empty wash detergent
Particular attention should be paid to the cleaning agent. Sometimes residual grease can be so stubborn that standard detergents can't remove the oil and unpleasant odor. In these cases, a specialized technical cleaner, such as Helfer Start HLR0054, will come to the rescue.
Helfer Start HLR0054 contains powerful surfactants that degrease metal surfaces and clean the drum and internal parts of your washing machine of fuel oil, oil, carbon deposits, limescale, and much more. This ensures that one cycle is sufficient to flush excess grease down the drain. The product's versatility is also impressive, allowing it to be used in any washing machine model. It's also easy to use.
Pour the powder into the main compartment of the tray (there is no need to measure the dosage, as one packet is designed for one cycle).
We set the mode to “Cotton 60”.
Let's start the wash.
An additional cycle won't be necessary. The main thing is to take your time and avoid using a too-fast cycle. Once the program is complete, you can safely load your laundry without worrying about the cleaning results.
Tips for beginners
The first start-up will go smoothly if you approach it responsibly and patiently. It won't hurt to be careful in the future, either – knowing a few simple tips will help you avoid risking your belongings and extend the life of your washing machine. For example, don't neglect the following recommendations:
Always start the wash cycle without laundry after finishing the machine to wash away any remaining powder from the surface of the drum.
After washing, wipe the body, drum, tray and rubber seals to remove moisture to prevent mold and rust.
Leave the hatch door and powder receptacle open, ensuring free air flow into the unit.
Clean the waste filter and the drainage system as a whole regularly.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage of detergents.
Choose high-quality washing powders and gels.
Carefully check the pockets of items loaded into the drum to ensure that no hard or sharp objects are allowed to enter the drum.
Empty washes are a necessary step in washing machine maintenance to ensure high-quality cleaning and a long service life. It's important to follow these and other care recommendations.
In the 60g Cotton cycle with an empty drum and Tiret detergent, the program time decreased after a while. From 2 hours 30 minutes to 30 minutes. That's a reduction of 2 hours. Why? Did the machine get clean?
Many people are afraid to run their washing machine empty, fearing the drum will become unbalanced if it's not loaded with the required amount of laundry. However, this approach is fundamentally flawed, as, on the contrary, "empty" runs are not only permitted but also necessary. We'll explain in detail below when it's best to remove items from the drum and which cycle to use.
What if there is no way to connect directly?
Will have to sell ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The LG washing machine does not start empty; there needs to be something in the drum.
In the 60g Cotton cycle with an empty drum and Tiret detergent, the program time decreased after a while. From 2 hours 30 minutes to 30 minutes. That's a reduction of 2 hours. Why? Did the machine get clean?