Maintaining Your Machines: Tips and Best Practices

How Routine Maintenance Saves Money and Keeps Your Laundromat Running Smoothly

For coin-op laundromat owners, equipment is the backbone of the business. A single broken washer or out-of-order dryer can cost you not just repairs—but also lost revenue, frustrated customers, and long-term wear on your reputation.

The good news? Routine maintenance and smart upkeep practices can drastically reduce downtime and extend the life of your machines. A small investment of time and attention pays off in long-term savings and smoother operations.

Start with a Preventive Maintenance Schedule

Preventive maintenance is all about catching problems before they happen. Establish a weekly, monthly, and quarterly checklist for all major equipment.

Weekly tasks:

• Clean out dryer lint traps and filters

• Wipe down machine exteriors and windows

• Check for coin jams or blocked payment systems

• Ensure detergent and vend dispensers are stocked and functioning

Monthly tasks:

• Inspect hoses and belts for signs of wear or leaks

• Check drum alignment and spin balance

• Clean water inlet filters and detergent compartments

• Test water levels and cycle accuracy

Quarterly tasks:

• Tighten any loose electrical or mechanical connections

• Lubricate moving parts per manufacturer specs

• Run full diagnostics on smart systems if applicable

• Review usage data for signs of overuse or imbalance

Create a log to track each task and who completed it. This not only keeps your machines healthy—it also helps when diagnosing future issues.

Troubleshoot Common Issues Before They Escalate

Many machine problems start small. Knowing how to spot early signs can save you hundreds in repairs and service calls.

Common problems to watch for:

• Leaky washers – Check door seals and hose connections

• Dryers not heating properly – Inspect vents and clean out lint buildup

• Coin jams or vending issues – Clean coin paths and inspect for debris

• Error codes or cycle failures – Reference your machine’s manual and record recurring patterns

Keep common replacement parts on hand so a small failure doesn’t take a machine out of service for days. Norton Supply stocks laundry parts and accessories to help you fix common issues without delay.

Train Your Staff—and Educate Customers

Even the best machines can fail if misused. Ensure your team understands how to properly operate, clean, and inspect machines. Post clear signage for customers showing proper loading amounts, detergent usage, and safety tips.

Consider bilingual signage to reduce confusion and misuse from a broader customer base. When customers treat machines properly, equipment lasts longer—and your maintenance team breathes easier.

Upgrade When It Makes Sense

There comes a point when maintenance costs outweigh replacement. Track how often your machines break down and calculate your total repair costs per year. If repairs are stacking up, it might be time to invest in new, more efficient equipment.

Newer models often offer:

• Higher energy and water efficiency

• Digital diagnostics and remote monitoring

• Increased customer appeal through quieter operation and modern appearance

Upgrading even a few machines can reduce downtime and draw in more customers.

How Norton Supply Supports Equipment Longevity

We’ve worked alongside laundromat owners for over 75 years, helping them keep operations running smoothly with:

• Laundry parts and vending accessories

• Folding tables, carts, and seating built to withstand heavy use

• Stocked inventory of top vend brands like Bounce, Arm & Hammer, and Gain

Whether you’re doing a weekly deep clean or replacing a worn-out part, Norton Supply has the parts, products, and support you need.

Protect your investment. Keep your machines running better, longer.