Is Your Commercial Washer Costing You More Than It Should? Here’s How to Stay Ahead
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In Kenya and across East Africa, running a laundry business — in a hotel, hospital, gym, or a neighborhood laundromat — isn’t easy. You’ve got bills to pay, customers to satisfy, and machines that work overtime. But what most business owners miss is that a poorly maintained commercial washer or dryer can quietly drain your profits.
Just like a matatu needs regular servicing to stay on the road, your commercial washing machine needs routine maintenance to keep it working efficiently. And with costs of power and water going up, even a small issue left unchecked can eat into your bottom line.
So, what can you do? Let’s break it down.
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Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Our region has its own unique challenges — inconsistent water pressure, power surges, dust, and even hard water in some areas. All these can take a toll on your machines faster than you think.
Ignoring maintenance leads to:
• More breakdowns (meaning lost business)
• Higher electricity and water bills
• Reduced lifespan of your machines
• Poor washing results — and unhappy customers
Regular checks and small fixes can help you avoid major repairs or expensive replacements.
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Simple, Actionable Maintenance Tips
You don’t need to be an engineer to keep things running smoothly. These practical steps can help any business owner or manager extend the life of their LG Commercial Washing Machines:
1. Clean the Drum Weekly
Soap scum, fabric softener, and dirt can build up fast. Wipe the inside of the drum and door seal with a damp cloth. This prevents odor and keeps the washer hygienic.
2. Check Water Inlet Filters
If your area has low water pressure or a dirty supply, filters can clog quickly. Clean them once or twice a month to ensure proper flow and faster cycles.
3. Wipe Down Controls and Exteriors
Dust and moisture are common — especially in Nairobi or Mombasa. A clean machine is not just good-looking, it’s also safer.
4. Keep the Door Slightly Open After Use
This helps air out the drum and prevents mold and mildew buildup — especially important in humid coastal towns.
5. Use the Right Detergents
Stick to commercial-grade detergents. Using local powders meant for home use can cause buildup and damage over time.
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Maintenance by Industry: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Not every business is the same. Depending on where and how you use your machines, your maintenance needs will vary:
• Hotels & Lodges
◦ High daily loads mean filters and drums need more frequent cleaning.
◦ Schedule maintenance during low-occupancy hours to avoid disruption.
• Laundromats
◦ Machines run back-to-back. Rotate use and service every few weeks.
◦ Watch out for coin jams or card-reader issues if you use them.
• Hospitals & Clinics
◦ Hygiene is everything. Use disinfectants and schedule deep cleans.
◦ Always separate linen types to avoid contamination.
• Gyms & Spas
◦ Towels carry a lot of lint — clean lint filters often.
◦ Use sanitizers for freshness and customer satisfaction.
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Cost-Saving Tips for the Smart Business Owner
In this economy, every shilling counts. Here’s how maintenance also helps your bottom line:
• Avoid emergency repairs — they’re always more expensive.
• Extend machine life — replacing a commercial washer is costly.
• Lower electricity and water use — clean machines are more efficient.
• Protect your brand — good wash quality keeps customers coming back.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I service my commercial washing machines?
A: Do light cleaning weekly and schedule a professional service every 6–12 months depending on usage.
Q: Can my staff handle maintenance or should I call a technician?
A: Daily cleaning and checks can be done in-house. For technical servicing, always call an LG-certified technician.
Q: Where can I find reliable commercial washers for my business in Kenya?
A: Visit LG Commercial Laundry East Africa to explore energy-efficient, durable machines built for our market.
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Conclusion
Your machines are the heart of your business. If they’re not running at 100%, neither is your bottom line.
With the right maintenance, you’ll get more washes per shilling, happier customers, and fewer breakdowns. And with LG Commercial Laundry solutions, you can trust your machines are designed to handle the pressure — Kenyan style.
Ready to upgrade or improve your laundry setup?
Check out LG’s range of Commercial Laundry Equipment here and keep your business running smoothly — day in, day out.