Putting on a set of freshly washed clothes or getting into a bed with newly cleaned sheets is one of the more pleasant sensations in everyday life, but this is only possible when your dryer and washing machine are working correctly. Otherwise, clothes and linens have to be handwashed and hang dried, which while effective for delicate fabrics, doesn’t provide the thorough cleaning that’s possible with a washing machine.

Generally, if the washing machine is relatively new, then it’s worth your time and money to pay for any minor repairs the machine might need. However, if the washer is older or seems to be experiencing frequent problems, then you should start saving for a replacement. Pay close attention to how the washing machine is operating daily as this could indicate a larger issue and start setting aside a budget for a replacement if you notice any of these eight signs.

1. The Appliance Is Over 10 Years Old

The first factor to consider when deciding whether to replace or repair the washing machine is the age of the appliance. In most cases, if the appliance is relatively new, it’s more cost-effective to have the appliance repaired since the average washing machine will last for about 10 years.

However, if the washing machine is 10 years or older, then purchasing a new washer is a better use of your money than continually paying for repairs. Additionally, a new washing machine will be more energy-efficient, allowing you to save more on your energy bills.

2. Lots of Loud Noises

Washing machines tend to make more noise than many other household appliances, this is especially true for front-load washers. But, if your washing machine begins to make louder noises than normal, this could indicate an issue. Some loud noises are the result of an overloaded or unbalanced washer, which can be fixed by taking out or repositioning some of the laundry to balance the load.

Similarly, if the washing machine is not on a flat, stable surface, then you might need to adjust the legs of the machine or add cardboard under one of the legs to stop the washer from shaking during a cycle. However, if these fixes don’t work, then the problem might be due to a mechanical issue, like worn-out belts and pulleys, an uneven drum, or a worn clutch and transmission. At this point, you will need to decide if it’s worth it to repair the machine or if it’s better to invest in a new clothes washer.

3. Frequent Leaks

Like any water-using appliance, a washing machine might start to leak for several different reasons. Some situations, like a loose or broken hose, can be fixed relatively easily by the average DIYer, but washing machines also have a series of internal hoses, seals, and fixtures that could need to be tightened, repaired, or replaced by an appliance repair professional.

In most cases, repairing these parts is relatively affordable, but if the repair technician finds that the leak is due to a broken or cracked washer tub, then you would be better off investing in a new washing machine, rather than paying to replace an entire tub.

4. The Drum Doesn’t Fill Up With Water

A washing machine relies on water to clean and rinse the laundry, so if the drum isn’t filling with water or only partially fills, then you need to investigate the issue. In some circumstances, it might be as simple as a clogged washer filter or a kinked inlet hose, which most DIYers can resolve by cleaning the filter or unkinking the hose. In some circumstances, you might need to completely replace the filter and hose to restore functionality.

However, if you find that the issue is due to a malfunctioning lid switch, twisted belt, or a problem with the microcontroller, then the problem will need to be addressed by a professional. Weigh the cost of the repair against the cost of a new washing machine, while keeping the age of the existing machine in mind to determine whether it would be best to repair or replace the washer.

5. The Drum Doesn’t Spin or Agitate

For a washing machine to get rid of dirt, grime, and stains, it needs to combine water and laundry detergent with motion to scrub the laundry clean. If you notice that the drum doesn’t agitate during the wash cycle or doesn’t spin during the rinse cycle, then there is a problem with the machine.

Sometimes this issue can be due to an overloaded or unbalanced load of laundry, which is relatively easy to fix by removing excess laundry or repositioning the laundry to balance the load. However, if these solutions don’t work, then it might be due to an issue with the belts, pulleys, or lid switch. These more complex problems will need to be assessed by a repair professional.

6. Water Doesn’t Drain After a Wash and Rinse Cycle

Following a wash and rinse cycle, the washing machine should completely drain any water. If you notice that the washer is still full or partially full of water, then this could be the result of an uneven load or an overloaded washer, which could cause the excess laundry to block the pump. Alternatively, there might be a problem with the water pump or a clog in the drain hose that is preventing the water from draining.

To fix these issues, you will need to have a professional repair technician assess the problem, leading to a costly repair bill. For relatively new washers, this repair cost might be worth it, but for older machines or washers that have frequent issues, it’s recommended to invest in a new machine.

7. Doesn’t Turn On

While water is important for a washing machine to function properly, electricity is just as necessary. If your washing machine is not turning on at all, then you need to determine the source of the issue. In some cases, the washer simply might not be plugged in or might have disconnected during a wash cycle due to an uneven load that caused it to shake or shift away from the wall.

Alternatively, the washing machine might not be working if there isn’t power running to the outlet, so check the breaker panel to determine if the breaker has flipped. If the breaker is on and the machine is plugged in, then there might be a problem with the wiring or the motor, in which case, you need to call a professional repair technician to fix the issue. Depending on the severity of the problem, this could be a costly repair.

8. Foul Odors

When you use a washing machine to clean your clothes, linens, and other laundry, the last thing you want is for the appliance to stink. Mold and mildew growth inside the washing machine can cause bad odors to occur and might affect the cleanliness of your laundry. Mild problems can be resolved by thoroughly cleaning the washing machine with a mixture of vinegar and water, as well as wiping away excess moisture after a cycle is complete and keeping the door open to encourage prompt drying.

However, if the problem persists, then you might need to run a hot wash cycle with a commercial washing machine cleaning solution or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to get rid of any lingering mold and mildew. In rare cases, the smell might remain even after this excessive cleaning, indicating that you might need to invest in a new washer to ensure your laundry will come out clean and free of mold or mildew.