This page covers what's specific to Houston. For the full checklist — causes, safe checks, and repair or replace — see washer repair.
Houston at a glance
- Main appliance stress
- Long humid summers; storms and flooding
- Hurricane season
- June 1 – November 30 (NOAA)
- Natural gas
- CenterPoint Energy across much of the area
Odor that keeps coming back
If odor persists and water stays in the drum, the problem may be drainage — see why a washer won't drain.
- Wipe the door gasket and the folds inside it after the last load of the day.
- Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open between loads.
- Use HE detergent in the amount your manual recommends — extra detergent leaves residue.
- Run the cleaning cycle your manual describes.
- Clean the pump filter; standing water there smells.
After flooding
Act now
- Don't run a washer that sat in floodwater until it's inspected.
- Shut off the water supply valves.
- Note the water height — the motor and pump sit near the floor.
Laundry rooms and power interruptions
If power drops mid-cycle, many washers will resume or need the cycle restarted; front-loaders may keep the door locked until water drains. Don't force the door. If it won't unlock or drain after power returns, request service.
Front-load gasket care in a humid climate
| Part | What to do | When it needs a technician |
|---|---|---|
| Door boot (gasket) | Wipe the folds after the last load; leave the door ajar | Torn boot that leaks |
| Pump filter | Clean per the manual; standing water there smells | Pump that hums or won't drain |
| Detergent drawer | Rinse and leave slightly open | — |
Before hurricane season
- Inspect the supply hoses for bulges or cracks; storm season is a good annual reminder.
- Make sure everyone in the house knows where the washer's water valves are.
- If you evacuate, close both valves so a burst hose can't flood the house while you're gone.
How a repair request works
- 1Call usTell us the appliance, the brand and what it's doing.
- 2Describe the problemBrand, model, symptoms, and what you've already checked.
- 3Provider reviews itThey contact you to accept and to ask anything they need.
- 4Diagnosis and quoteThe provider confirms any diagnostic fee and the repair price before work starts.
Common questions
Is mildew in my washer a repair problem?
Usually it's maintenance, not a fault. If cleaning doesn't help and water stays in the drum or gasket, a drainage problem may be involved.