Kelly's Korner - Hot Town, Summer in the City

Hey, All,

It is only the end of June and we have been getting some really warm weather here in Portland.  While we didn't get the 103 degrees they were forecasting this weekend, it was still 90 something, overcast, with humidity at the sauna level.  And the rest of the summer is looking just as uncomfortable.

Creative Commons license on image.

Now, I may be weird but summer is my least favorite season of the year.  I don't do well in the heat and my poor pets aren't too happy either.  So what do I do to help alleviate some of the discomfort (I don't have central air)?  First of all, if I can't get to a pool, river or lake and stay home, I make sure I have lots of water (iced tea for me) around for my pets.  I set out extra bowls of water and drop ice cubes in it to keep it cool.  I also have a big box fan to blow air on me and move it around the living room.  I also have a spray bottle with water to spray both me and the furballs.

Once temps in the house reach about 80, I will put my ferrets in the big dog kennel with food, water and an old flannel sheet for them to curl up in and move them to the basement.  It stays blessedly cool down there - my boys practically live down there in the summer.  The cats and the grand-dog are either down there, too, or else the cats have found a cool hidey hole outside.

Once the sun goes down, I open up the house - doors and windows to catch any stray breeze, and leave them open all night.  When I get up in the morning, I close everything back up to keep the cool in and go through the same routine.  The two smaller bedrooms now have window A/C units but I just open up my windows at night and unplug the heater on my bed and sleep just fine.

Now, if you can't afford to install whole house air conditioning and all stores are sold out of window units (the windows in my front room don't open so I can't put window unit in - one more thing in the list of honey-dos on my house!) there have been some very innovating ideas out on the Web for do-it-yourself A/C units.  I am not recommending them, but some of them do look pretty interesting and if they work - hey, there's a plus for you.

If you have any other ways to keep cool, let me know - it's going to be a looooong summer!

Have a great week and a safe and sane 4th!

Whirlpool Training

Last week, W.L. May Company was happy to host a training session in the conference room of our "new" Vancouver warehouse. Whirlpool's trainer Randy Kruger brought his expertise to W.L. May Company, showing the mechanics of high efficiency top load washers and the radically new hybrid heat dryers.

Due to some scheduling difficulties this was announced with very short notice. For that we apologize. Despite the late announcement the turnout was impressive and shows us the demand for training opportunities. We thank  you all for attending and look forwarding to hosting more of this type of event in the future.

Mark Guzman, the manager of our Sacramento branch, was also on hand and snapped some pictures of the event that we are happy to share. Once again, thanks to all of you who made time in your busy schedules to attend and increase your product knowledge, we hope you found the experience helpful.

W.L. May Company sales manager, Trev Pelzer opened the program

Whirlpool trainer Randy Kruger provides his introduction

Technicians taking a closer look

Inside the Whirlpool Hybrid Heat Dryer

Randy Kruger provides a close up explanation

Looking at the "motor" area of the Whirlpool High Efficiency Top Load Washer

Training involves breaking down an appliance, here the rotor is being removed

A rarely seen overhead view of training in progress

We like seeing so many branded service vehicles visiting us. Thanks again!

Monday Motivation

There is nothing I like better at the end of a hot summer's day than taking a short walk around the garden. You can smell the heat coming up from the earth to meet the cooler night air.-Peter Mayle

For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Wednesday Weekly Stock: Clothes Dryers

Every week at W.L. May we have several items we feature as good parts to consider adding to your stock. These parts also have special pricing available. For pricing details, ask your account representative for more information. This week we look into the world of clothes dryers.

Y055980

The first part from this week's featured parts isn't really a part at all. Instead it used to attach parts. Our first item is a high temperature adhesive from Maytag that is used to glue felt seals found on many dryers into place. We stock it under the manufacturers part number of Y055980.

LH4WXZ

Another item that isn't really a part in the machine is this outlet duct. Here are a few features of the 4 inch ProVent outlet duct that we stock. Recently the louvers on the outer wall faceplate have been re-engineered to prevent stocking. The faceplate also has a groove on the back to allow for cleaner caulking than older designs had. That same faceplate comes in white, but can also be painted to match existing decor. Ask for part #LH4WXZ.

W10169313

When the machine stops working, that's when the repairman gets called. A simple cause for a not working dryer could be a door switch. A switch stuck on open will not complete the circuit. Luckily that switch is usually readily available. Both 2 and 3 terminal switchs are frequently replaced by this one, part W10169313.

33001003

Another type of part we get regular calls for are dryer lint filters. They are relatively easy to damage and sometimes (especially in households with kids) they just disappear. For many years the Whirlpool style lint filter was accessed from the top of the machine where it inserted into a channel behind the drum. On newer models, the lint filter is usually found at the front of the drum just inside the door. On Whirlpools and their related brands (think Maytag), usually that filter is part 33001003.

Y54414

The next part we are looking at today has a bit of history to it. The part itself is the idler pulley found on  Speed Queen dryers. Speed Queen was a part of Amana at one time, Well, Amana became part of Maytag. Maytag decided to use some of those designs on Magic Chef products and Maytag became a part of Whirlpool. So that means that this idler pulley can be found on Speed Queen, Amana, Magic Chef, Maytag and Whirlpool dryers. Naturally we always keep on hand this part, number Y54414.

We have other dryer parts being featured this week in addition to those just mentioned. For more details just ask your account manager about this weeks special dryer parts.

Kelly's Korner - Moving Tips

Hey, All,

Springtime seems like the time when people are moving from one residence to another.  Whether it is kids moving home from college, out of home after graduation, or just packing the whole family to move to a bigger place, there are a lot of people on the move.

Creative Commons license on image.

Now this can be a stressful time for anyone.  All the little things can add up to one big headache if you let it.  Having moved many times myself, I have come up with some things that have helped me immensely.

• PLAN!!!!  As soon as you know you are moving, start bringing boxes home and start packing up the things you don't use everyday.  Books, knicknacks, seasonal clothes, etc.  Mark them well and designate an area to put them.
• Call your utilities.  Let them know your new address and when you want the utilities stopped or transferred well ahead of time.
• If children are able to help, have them pack up themselves so you don't have to.
• Reserve a moving van well in advance.  Weekends are especially busy for rental trucks so make sure you're not left out.  Make sure you have a hand truck to move the big stuff - washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc.
• If you have a front load washer, check with your favorite appliance repair person to see if you need a moving kit.  Some of the front loads have special moving bolts needed to keep your tub in place.  Do this sooner than later as they may need to be ordered.  Also, check your pigtail (power cord) on your dryer and stove between your old place and the new one.  You may have a three wire receptacle in one place and a 4 wire in another.  Have your tech check this out, also, and have him get you the correct pigtails.  
• Check the laundry hook-ups in the new place - you may need longer hoses and venting - your tech can help you with all of this.  Get him scheduled in advance.  Same if you have a gas range - get unhooking and hooking lined up - if you are going from natural gas to LP (liquid propane) you will need to change some things, like orifices for the fuel supply.  This is something that needs to be done as soon as you know your are moving as parts may need to be ordered.
• If at all possible, start moving small loads to your new residence ahead of actual moving day.  When I moved from our apartment into my newly purchased home, I made sure I had a month before I had to be out of the apartment.  That gave me time to paint before moving furniture in.  Every night on my way home, I'd drop off what boxes I had already packed.  Then I went home and packed a few more, taking things off walls, stuff stored in closets, etc.
• Moving is a major pain and all your friends will say, "Sure, I'll help!" and then be unreachable that day.  Make sure you line up some really reliable peope or hire some day help for things you can't manage yourself.
• Have your magic marker, Phillips head and flathead screwdriver and a pair of pliers on you at all times!  They get lost easy and you'll need them.
• This is the most important tip I can give anyone:  If you have items that have parts and pieces that need to stay together - bed frames, bookshelves, etc, - take all the screws, brackets, whatever and put them in a ziplock bag and very securely DUCT TAPE them to the item they belong to.  I don't know how many phone calls I get from people that have moved and have had to take the doors and hinges off their refrigerator and have lost them.  Put those screws and hinges in a bag and tape it to the inside of the freezer.  Put the remotes in a bag and tape them to the back of the TV.  Put screws and brackets for bedframes and tape them to the rails.You will save yourself untold headaches and anxiety by doing this.
• As soon as you empty a room, clean it - wash windows, wipe down walls, sweep-mop-vacuum floors.  Fill in nail holes with spackle.  If you are in a rental, this will help getting your deposits back.  Plus, you don't want people thinking you're a total jerk by leaving a mess.  In the kitchen, pull out fridge and stove and clean behind and under them as well as inside.  Please don't take knobs, door bars, shelves or anything that belongs in or on the appliance.  One of the reasons rents go up is the maintenance and repair of turning a rental over.
• Be a good tenant and leave all the lightbulbs and a roll of toilet paper in the bathroom.  Nothing is worse than having to go and digging through piles of stuff to find the TP or not having light to see where you're going.  Have TP, soap and hand towels in the new place, too.
• If you have wood or tile floors, make sure you have them protected - large pieces of cardboard work well.
• Reward you, your family and anyone helping by providing food, drinks and snacks.  You'd be surprised at what people will do for free vittles lol

Make moving day less of a chore by getting all those ducks in a row before The Day and everyone will be a happy camper.

Have a great week!

Monday Motivation

       

                  Summertime is always the best of what might be. ― Charles Bowden

             For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Happy Fathers Day

Throwback Thursday: News Recap June 18th, 2015

If you have been reading the W.L. May Blog but haven't checked us out on Facebook, Twitter or Google+, you may not be getting the whole story. We use all of those social media outlets to share news stories that relate to our industry as well as appliance tips we have found from other sources. Here is a recap of some of the top stories we have seen lately. So without further ado:

We start with some consumer friendly articles we feel would be great for sharing:

• Is that a new outfit? You might want to wash it first. LINK
• Do you know why refrigerator door gaskets are magnetic?  LINK
• Catholic Online shared some appliance maintenance advice. LINK
• Fresh food is fashionable, but the frozen food can be fantastic too. LINK
• Topeka Capital Online had some stain removal tips. LINK
• Toronto Sun had Some tips for front load washer users. LINK
• In what may be a controversial post, round top refrigerators are endorsed. LINK
• A good list of 10 ways to save money by using your appliances wisely. LINK
• Want to add some pizzazz to an older refrigerator? This Old House has some ideas. LINK
• Alternatives Journal to advice for those hoping to "green up" laundry day. LINK

Next, we look at the manufacturers and how they have been in the news recently:

• Whirlpool helped at an unusual London event. LINK
• The Maytag Man came out in of support LGBT rights. LINK
• Changes in Electrolux's plans for Charlotte driven by GE acquisition. LINK

We found some articles that might be of interest to those of you who love all thing appliances:

• If you had been paying attention to Ebay, you could have bought a refrigerator full of Jurassic park video games. LINK
• Star Wars fans, the R2-D2 refrigerator is on its way. May the frost be with you. LINK
• Treehugger showed us a no power washing machine that might come in handy this camping season. LINK

Sometimes, the links we post are related to technology, business or happenings on the internet:

• United Servicers Association posted a great article about the importance of the distributor/servicer relationship. LINK
• Did you know you can search patents on Google? Here is one from Samsung for microwave oven wiring. LINK
• The internet of things will walk a fine line between convenience and security. LINK

We close with few just for fun stories:

• Been a while since you have used a laundrymat? This article will remind you why. LINK
• Mother/Daughter bonding over cleaning a refrigerator is also a teachable moment. LINK

For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Wednesday Weekly Stock: Washing Machines

Every week at W.L. May we have several items we feature as good parts to consider adding to your stock. These parts also have special pricing available. For pricing details, ask your account representative for more information. This week we look into the world of washing machines.

Several the washing machine items that are being featured this week were also featured a few months ago. We return to them because of their consistent popularity. Those parts are:

• 70143, Screen hose washers
• 285352, Oil seal kit for direct drive input shaft
• TB123a Spanner wrench for Whirlpool. Maytag, and GE
• CW-151 Universal water valve

There are some new pieces to add to the mix of featured items this week as well.

VA1

High efficiency front load washers have been popular for many years now. Cost savings for both power and water have driven the success of these units. One of the ways these units save power is by running a faster spin cycle. That greater speed increases the vibration of the machine. In some situations this can cause the machine to rattle loudly or "walk" across the laundry room. Making sure the machine is in balance will often help a lot, but sometimes more is needed. The VA1, or "Vibe-Away" pads are designed to fit under the washing machines legs to absorb the machines vibrations, stopping the rattle and the "walk".

W10207783

While the Vibe-Away pads can help with excess  vibration, the majority of shake in the machine is absorbed by suspension springs, or "shock absorbers". May of the Whirlpool models will use part W10207783. This is a set of three suspension springs.

5304485917

Every manufacturer has there own solutions to engineering problems like machine vibration. The Electrolux solution uses 2 instead of 3 suspension springs. These are sold as a set of two using part number 5304485917.

22001682

Another call we get regularly involves lid switches for Maytag. These switches incorporate a 4 amp fuse that we get requests for. Whirlpool has decided to stop offering that fuse as an individual replacement part, instead the recommend replacement of the complete switch assembly. We stock that assembly with a part number of 22001682. The assembly includes the fuse, two switches and mounting hardware and brackets.

4681EA2001T

Finally we look at another part that is in our stock due to numerous requests. LG washer drain pump 4681EA2001T is used on LG and Kenmore models. It should be noted this does not come with the pump casing. It is a genuine OEM part, but due to manufacturers regulations, we are not authorized to supply this part for LG warranty servicing.


 For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Kelly's Korner - Working at W L May - Saving the World One Appliance at a Time

Hey, All,

W L May in Portland is looking for the next generation of master account managers.  We old folks that have been here for decades are looking to retire in the next 10 years and need new blood to take up our torch.

Roy Wilson - 39 years

Rob Marks - 22 years

Chuck Coe - 34 years

Oh, anybody can do this job?  Think again.  It takes a very special person to be able to make the grade here.  This is not just answering phones.  There are a lot of behind-the-scenes work that tasks your creativity into finding an answer.  Like my dad always said, 'There's more than one way to skin a cat.'  And we have to know them all.

Some of the qualifications that you need to have are these:

• Inquiring minds want to know - do you like solving mysteries?  Are you a person that always goes the extra mile - not just a step?  Do you want a job that is a second home and not just a paycheck?  Do you want to be a super hero?
• Be somewhat technically inclined - if you know the difference between a flat head and Phillips screwdriver, you've got a good start.  Being able to figure out how an appliance works and what Tab A fits into Slot B is a must.  (Any Ikea people out there??? lol)
• A good head for trivia - there are millions of little things that you'll need to remember - sometimes it may be not knowing the answer, but where to find it.
• The ability to remember numbers - account numbers, part numbers, model numbers - I sometime dream numbers!
• A thick skin - if you've worked customer service before, you know that there are all kinds of people out there - some fun, some not so - and you've really got to be able to shake it off and not let people's attitudes bother you.  When I first started here, some of the older (male) techs had a hard time with the concept of a woman looking up parts for them and wanted to talk to "one of the guys."  I broke them of that by working my behind off to be 100% most of the time (yes, I do make the occasional mistake but don't tell anyone!)
• Be able to have several irons in the fire at once - I get orders and research requests via phone, fax, email, internet and my personal cell phone and sometimes they all are coming in at once.  You will have to be able to prioritize.  Some things you may have an answer for immediately, some in a few minutes, some in a few days.  You have to keep on top of all of it.
•  Have a good sense of humor - we have some characters here!  Customers, co-workers, vendors, etc., and sometimes it gets a little wild.  It also helps when you have some of those not-so-much-fun calls and when every customer we have seems to be calling in all at the same time.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions!  I tell my trainees that I'd rather have them ask the same question 50 times and get it right 50 times than have them get it wrong once.  People won't remember the 9,999 times you've sent them the correct part, just the one time you sent the wrong one.
• Be confident, accountable, and adaptable - we deal with some people that will run right over the top of you with what they need, someone that is like pulling hen's teeth to get the information you need to get them what they need, and everything in between - the position of account manager is exactly that - managing your accounts and the people associated with them.  Own up to your mistakes and learn from them and try not to make them again.  The only certain thing is change, and we have our share of that - whether is be new computer systems, new procedures from our vendors, changes in personnel, you just have to roll with it.
• Live with the fact that you will never "know it all".  You never stop learning at this job!

I am coming fast up on 14 years here and I can honestly say that I am never bored.  There is always something new coming down the pike.  And with all the people I work with and for, they keep me on my toes.  I've also made some wonderful friends - I can go practically to any city we have customers and they'd welcome me with open arms, and wine and dine me and show me their city.  They send me cards, presents, pictures and keep me up with what's going on in their lives - it's not all business.  And the more interests you have, the more you can relate with your customers.

I have found a home here, as have my co-workers, and we are looking to add to our family - do you have what it takes?  If you think you are up to the challenge, come talk to us.  Send your cover letter and resume to trev.p@wlmay.com.  Life here is not for the faint-hearted!

Have a great week!

Friday Morning Videos: 10 Things You Didn't Know Your Microwave Could Do

A microwave can save time, reheat leftovers, and make popcorn. But it can do so much more...



        For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Thursday Tweets: Microwave Ovens

While looking through our Twitter feed we found these tweets to share with you.

We start off with a some inspiration and a laugh.

I try to accomplish epic missions before the microwave hits zero!

— Alexis From TX (@Mad_Humor) June 7, 2015

Due to a glitch on craigslist, I am currently having a casual encounter with a used microwave

— Snorklhuahua (@weinerdog4life) June 7, 2015

Even a "casual encounter" can have a few complications, maybe a look at the owners manual would help?

life would've been so much easier if plastic, styrofoam and aluminum plates were microwave-safe

— tahm (@tahmue) June 5, 2015

Apparently "microwave safe" means the bowl will feel like molten lava when you touch it. This is why I have trust issues..

— mark elghossain (@markthemannn) June 8, 2015

I may be graduating in a year but I guess I still don't know that metal cups make microwaves lightening ????

— Natalie Bryant (@natalieb715) June 5, 2015

Just set my microwave on fire for the second time this month??

— Bianca Siqueira (@_siqueirabianca) June 8, 2015

Generally, though microwave ovens serve us pretty well.

"you’re so hot” i whispered as i took my plate of food out of the microwave

— Nathan Robert (@NathanTTC) June 7, 2015

Even if they might get the kids into trouble with Mom.

microwaves should have a “dont make a beep sound my mom is gonna be really mad if she finds out I’m making pizza rolls at 4 am again" option

— ?s??g a?? ?ec?less : (@AdoreVictoriaD) June 5, 2015

Microwaves don't need to give warning beeps after cooking food - the last thing I'm going to do is forget I just made pizza rolls.

— Brandon Marshall (@BSMarshall2) June 5, 2015

Popcorn has never been the same since the invention of the microwave.

i was craving sweet microwave popcorn a couple of hrs ago and now im in bed eating sweet microwave popcorn. dreams really do come true kids

— kari (@folieadouchebag) June 8, 2015

We salute the Microwave Oven!

Big shout out to all microwaves out there for understanding how lazy we are.

— Shimmy (@Shimmycocopuffs) May 30, 2015

          For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Wednesday Weekly Stock: Microwave Ovens

Every week at W.L. May we have several items we feature as good parts to consider adding to your stock. These parts also have special pricing available. For pricing details, ask your account representative for more information. This week we look into the world of microwave ovens.

We love our microwaves. They have revolutionized the world of popcorn. The make leftover reheating easy. Without them, Jenny Craig would be out of business. So when the microwave isn't working, it can seem like an emergency.

26QBP0936

Lets shed a light on your microwave...literally. There are a wide variety of lamps used in microwave ovens. A common one is this 40w 130v intermediate screw in lamp, part 26QBP0936.

M0805101

If the microwave just seems dead for no reason, don't blow a fuse! In fact, there is a good chance your microwave may have blown one-a fuse that is. Microwaves will often have a 15 or 20 amp fuse. This 20amp fuse has been a popular replacement for well over the 22 years I have had in the industry. It's part number is M0805101.

10QBP0229

A fuse won't solve all microwaves problems. The heart of a microwave is the magnetron. It is the device that generates the microwaves that cook the food. If your magnetron stops working the microwave will not do its job, W.L. May Company stocks a wide variety of OEM parts. Some brands can be difficult to source the OEM parts so we have options for you. The 10QBP0229 is a replacement for Samsung's magnetron  part number OM75P(10)ESHL. That same Samsung magnetron was also used on many of GE's microwave ovens, making this a versatile item to consider stocking.

10QBP0230

Another replacement magnetron that is used in a lot of microwave ovens is 10QBP0230. It is a Direct replacement for DCS 212541, Sharp 2m53J(L), & Samsung OM75P(10)ERHN. It also has a LOT of other applications where it will work, or serve as a direct replacement.

10QBP0231

We have one last magnetron to consider this week. That is the part number 10QBP0231. It is a direct replacement for the Samsung magnetron part number OM75p-21-ESGN. Like the others this is used on machines by a wide variety of manufacturers.

A magnetron like the three we just showed you,require a LOT of electricity to work. To get to that point, incoming power first passes through a high voltage transformer. The transformer takes the incoming power (120 or 240 VAC) then "transforms" it to a much higher voltage of anywhere from 3000-5000 DC.

13QBP21095

Still the magnetron needs more power. This achieved by the addition of a high voltage capacitor and diode, which serve to double the voltage. This week we feature a . 95uf capacitor, with 1/4" male terminals that is used on many makes and models of microwave oven. Part number is 13QBP21095.

Important note: Capacitors store lethal amounts of energy. THEY CAN KILL YOU! Make sure the capacitor has been discharged before servicing. If you are unsure of whast that means, please call a technician who can safely do the repair.

11QBPUNIV

Diodes, also know as rectifiers, in most microwaves are fairly similar. Featured this week is a "universal' diode. It has 2 1/4" female terminals and is used on a whole lot of microwave ovens. Part number is 11QBPUNIV.

40QBP1012

Once the Magnetron has power and starts making microwaves those waves are sent through a hole into the ovens cavity chamber. To prevent moisture and food particles reaching through that hole into the high voltage area with the magnetron, capacitor, transformer, etc., a waveguide cover is used. Basically a mica covered piece of cardboard, it not only closes the hole but acts a filter reflecting the microwaves back into the oven.  We are featuring a cut to fit sheet of that material that is 10x12 inches with a part number of 40QBP1012.

28QBP0496

Finally we look at one of the simpler ways that you can break the circuit in a microwave. A microwave will not function if the door is open. A series of micro switches activate the circuit and cause the power to flow when the the door is open. Just like an open door will break the circuit a malfunctioning switch will do so as well. Most microwaves use fairly univeral micro switches in a few different configurations. This week we are featuring 28QBP0496. This switch is 15 amp, 125/250 volt, and has 1/4-inch terminals.

        For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Kelly's Korner - Appliance Maintainance

Hey, All!

Everyday I get asked if the cost of parts and repair are worth doing or just to get a new appliance.  Totally up to you, but rule of thumb is that if the cost of repair is over half the cost of new, go ahead and replace.

Creative Commons license on image.

One good thing to help extend the life of your appliances is regular maintainence and cleaning - here are a few things that need to be on your to-do list

• Keep your stove clean - regular cleaning of not only the oven, but under your burners, too.  Use care when cleaning the control panel as squirting cleaner on any electronics could short them out.  Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrubbies on these either.  Squirt cleaner on your sponge or soft cloth and use that.  I've had people tackle their control panels with Comet and steel wool and have taken off all the markings on the panel.  Do not use foil under your elements!  In oven or on top.  This can dramatically shorten the life of the elements.  New drip pans are relatively inexpensive.
• Clean out your microwave weekly - more often if a mess is made.  If you look inside you will see a small cover about 4 to 5 inches square.  This is called a wave guide cover and helps distribute the microwaves around the oven.  If this gets cover with food debris you may see sparks that may cause damage to your microwave.  You can loosen baked on food by putting a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice and running the microwave for 5 to 10 minutes to steam and loosen the food particles.  Use care in cleaning the controls also.  The electonics can short out if too much cleaner is used.
• Clean your vent hood of accumulated dust and grease both outside and in.  If you have just a grease filter (no charcoal in it) you can either soak it in hot soapy water or run it through the dishwasher.  If you have a charcoal filter, replace it.
• Check the filters in your dishwasher for debris - pieces of paper or plastic, twist ties, large pieces of food, etc.  Check your racks for wear - if you see bare metal, ask your tech or call W L May for rack "goop".  Run a cleaner like Affresh, Glisten or Dishwasher Magic through it.
• While you are running the cleaner through the dishwasher, if you have a garbage disposal, dump some ice cubes and run it through along with Disposer Care, Plink or Affresh (all found at W L May!) to keep it smelling nice.
• Clean out the refrigerator and freezers inside and out.  Don't forget the condenser coils.  If you don't have a frost free freezer, defrost before the ice gets to 1/2" thick.  Do not use sharp objects (knife, ice pick,etc.) as you may damage the liner.  A hair dryer will help melt that ice faster.
• Clean your dryer and venting system of lint both inside and out - take off the front panel and get the vacuum or brush around the outside area of the drum and motor.  You should be cleaning out the lint trap on every load.  Wipe down the outside, too.
• Run some Affresh or Washer Magic through your washer to clean out any sludge.  Use care when using a pre-wash on your clothes and getting that on your machine as it could eat into the finish and cause rusting.  Wipe it all down.

Monday Motivation

Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.-Warren Buffett

For more education and entertainment from W.L. May Company click...HERE

Friday Morning Videos: Basic Electricity Demonstrated on the Hoary Cliffs of Moher

Here is a short video from one of our favorite YouTuber's, the Appliance Samurai. He posted this short vacation video from Ireland where he demonstrates basic electric principles, such as voltage and current path, using an electric fence. Wind noise is a little rough, but the scenery is nice and the educational value is valid. 

If you are looking for training in the exciting world of appliance repair, the Appliance Samurai offers it. He is an active USA member as well. You can check out his website HERE.




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Throwback Thursday: News Recap June 4th, 2015

If you have been reading the W.L. May Blog but haven't checked us out on Facebook, Twitter or Google+, you may not be getting the whole story. We use all of those social media outlets to share news stories that relate to our industry as well as appliance tips we have found from other sources. Here is a recap of some of the top stories we have seen lately. So without further ado:

We start with some consumer friendly articles we feel would be great for sharing:

• CNet looked at the physics involved in the operation of a dishwasher. LINK
• Daily Finance gave us some tips to save money on laundry. LINK
• Refrigerator too cold? Here are some things to look at. LINK
• Considering using water from your washer in your garden? This reporter recounts his experiences. LINK

Next, we look at the manufacturers and how they have been in the news recently:

• Whirlpool acquired American Dryer Corporation LINK
• Whirlpool's "every Day Care" campaign released their Fathers Day ad. LINK

We found some articles that might be of interest to those of you who love all thing appliances:

• We saw a bike powered washing machine. Well, I guess it's cheaper than a gym membership. LINK
• An old refrigerator will be housed in the Mohammed Ali House museum. LINK

Sometimes, the links we post are related to technology, business or happenings on the internet:

• Upstart Business Journal showed us a refrigerator magnet that could save lives. LINK

We close with few just for fun stories:

• More kids=More laundry. It may be annoying, but this mom wouldn't have it any other way. LINK
• This is a fun read, but I can't escape doubting about the no longer available belt. LINK

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Wednesday Weekly Stock: Dishwashers

Every week at W.L. may we have several items we feature as good parts to consider adding to your stock. These parts also have special pricing available. For pricing details, ask your account representative for more information. This week we look into the world of dishwashers.

Dishwashers are great for washing dishes. It says so right in the name of the appliance. There is a bit of problem. To keep your dishwasher running well it requires a little maintenance on occasion. The machine will clean the dishes, but what will clean the machine? Luckily we do have some cleaners feature this week.

19212

12012

W10282479

In the past we have mentioned a few cleaners from Summit Products. Glisten offers a powdered citric acid based formula, while Dishwasher Magic is a fluid product. Both will help remove hard water. Glisten can be used while washing a load of dishes. Dishwasher Magic also works as a rust stain remover and is recommended to use in an empty dishwasher.

Finally Whirlpool offers Affresh tablets specifically engineered for dishwashers. We have looked at this product before as well.

DW-53

Of course, without water the dishwasher is useless. One of the most popular styles of dishwasher water valve is the Horton 514 valve. Supco has their own version, DW-53.

154827601

154576501

Almost as important as getting water into the machine, is keeping the water in the machine. That is where door gaskets enter the picture. On some machines there is only one gasket that goes up and around the door area. On many Frigidaire style appliances sold under the Frigidaire, Kenmore, Gibson, Tappan, and Westinghouse name, the grey gasket 154827601 is used. It goes up and around the door frame, sort of like an upside down U. In addition to door gasket is also called a tub gasket.

In addition to the seal that goes up and around the door, Frigidaire used a gasket that attached as a strip along the bottom of the door. A popular size that we stock (and you might want to stock as well) is 154576501. I have seen this part called a bottom door seal, a tank gasket, or a shield.

W10509257

Whirlpool has their own flavor of door gasket. While most times a white gasket is used, sometimes it a black one such as we are featuring this week, part W10509257.

Even though most dishwashers are of a standard size, these are just a few of the gaskets used. Differences in length and mounting style make it important you get the gasket that fits the machine you are servicing. We can determine that for you if you provide us with the model and serial number of the machine being serviced.

DWK-6572DW

If worst comes to worst, sometimes the only right answer is replacement. If you are faced with that situation, you can make installing the replacement dishwasher easier withe the use of a USD dishwasher installation kit. We have mentioned this kit before, but it is such a useful product it bears repeating.

Of course, this list barely scratches the surface of dishwasher parts that we keep on hand to help satisfy your parts needs. If you need any assistance in tracking down parts for your dishwasher, give our knowledgeable staff a call and we will help solve the problem.

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