Laundry 101: Extend the Life of Your Washer with These Tips

Avoid wear and tear on your appliances with these laundry tips.

Laundry might seem routine, but small habits can have a big impact—not just on your clothes but on the longevity of your washer, too. Over time, forgotten pockets, detergent overload, and oversized loads can wear down your machine. With these simple laundry tips, you’ll not only keep your clothes in great shape but also help your washer run smoothly for years to come. Let’s go over some easy steps to make both your laundry and appliance maintenance a breeze.

Laundry Tips

While we always think we know exactly what to do when doing laundry, it helps to cover the basics. Sometimes, we forget or just don't think about one or two steps because there are so many other things we have to do. So, let's brush over these quickly just to cover our bases.

Empty Every Pocket

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Leaving different items in your pockets can damage your clothes and your washer. Papers with ink or paint on them can end up dyeing clothing, and metal items like keys and nuts can damage the interior of your washer. So, before running anything through, make sure to turn pockets inside out. A fun tip if you have children is to put a change jar in the laundry room, and any change left in the pockets can then be used toward something fun for the family. This is especially useful if you have someone who always leaves loose change in their pockets before laundry day.

Limit the Detergent

No matter how many times we do it, there's always some part of our brain that thinks "more detergent equals more clean!" Sadly, that's not really the case. In reality, it just means you're creating more suds in the washer, which can cause a second rinse to be needed or make the washer work harder.

Limit the Load Size—Not Too Big or Too Small

This one is tricky. On the one hand, you don't want your load to be too small because then the sensors don't work quite right, and the computer brain of the washer essentially gets confused. So, throw in an extra towel or two if all you're trying to wash is one or two things.

Courtesy of Anna Shvets

On the other hand, you don't want the load to be too large. As we've covered in a different post, making continually oversized loads will cause your washer to run down its motor much faster than normal.

Wash Bras Carefully

Just like leaving keys or other metal parts in your pockets can be dangerous to the washer, bras can be too. If the bra gives out and the underwire starts poking out during the wash, it can damage the inside of your washer. To avoid this, always wash your bras on delicate and inside a lingerie bag.

Maintenance Tips

Make Sure It’s Level

Whether you’ve just purchased your first washer or you’re doing a checkup, start by making sure that it's level. Not only does this keep your laundry from destabilizing the washer during a cycle, but it also ensures that the water level inside the washer is accurate.

Check the Water-Fill Hoses

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Take a minute or two once a month to go over your water-fill hoses. Make sure they're connected properly and that they are not becoming brittle or cracked. When these start showing damage, it's time to replace them ASAP before you end up with a leak.

Descale Regularly

Just like the hoses, check once a month. All it takes is one load of vinegar to descale your washer. Not only will this prevent buildup in spots like your hoses or other nooks and crannies, but it also keeps the washer fresh and prevents any gross smells.

Think Ahead

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If you're looking to move at some point, either find or get hold of the moving bolts for your washer. Having those keeps your washer from being damaged in transit, and once you get to your new house, you can have them removed and save them for the next time. If you've recently purchased a new washer, you can do that when it's delivered. Put them all in a labeled bag together and toss them in the junk drawer. Eventually, you'll use them.

Remove Any Lint

This one always comes up, and it should because of the dangers it poses to both your washer and dryer. Remove lint buildup. We talk about it more often with the dryer because it can catch fire, but lint buildup in your washer can just as easily cause damage—in this case, flooding. It's not common because it takes a lot of lint buildup, and normally your washer will have issues before that point with standing water. But it can happen. To that end, just as you would with your dryer, regularly take a washcloth, sweep through everything, check the seals and other nooks, and get rid of the lint. Three minutes and you're done.

With just a few small adjustments to your laundry routine, you can extend the life of both your clothes and your washer. By paying attention to things like detergent amounts, load sizes, and regular maintenance, you’ll save yourself from costly repairs down the road. But if your washer ever does need a little extra care, our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full repair, we’ll keep your appliances running smoothly so you can focus on everything else. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our website or give us a call, and we’ll work with you to find a date and time that fits your needs. At Appliance Rescue Service, our number one priority is making sure your home is running smoothly again.

Website
Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading
How to Keep Your Washing Machine Running Smoothly

Household Hauntings: The Frightening Reality of Appliance Neglect

The Labyrinth of Limescale

The Risks of DIY Appliance Repairs and How to Avoid Them

DIY repair might seem tempting, but knowing your limits can save you time, money, and headaches.

In today’s age of DIY everything, many homeowners take pride in at least trying to tackle their own household projects. Thanks to shows like This Old House and Fixer to Fabulous, we often think it’s possible to fix just about anything. And the sense of accomplishment is wonderful. But it’s crucial to recognize when a repair is beyond your skill level, especially when it comes to appliances. Understanding your limits can save you not only time and money but also prevent potential hazards to your health or home. In this post, we’ll walk through when it’s best to put down the toolbox and pick up the phone.

Assessing Your Skills

Before you dive into a repair, the most crucial step is to reflect on your current skills. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Have I successfully repaired an appliance before? Think about the different things you’ve fixed or replaced. Fixing a leaky faucet or replacing a light bulb are examples of minor repairs.

• Are you comfortable working with electrical components? If you have a solid understanding of how to read an electrical diagram and how wiring works, you might be able to tackle simpler electrical issues. However, if electricity is intimidating, it’s best to leave this to the pros.

• Do you understand the finer points of your appliance's inner workings? Many of today’s major appliances are complex. If you struggle to identify parts or keep track of how they fit together, professional help is likely necessary.

It isn’t a mark against you if you find yourself hesitating or feeling uncertain about any of these questions. It’s just a sign to reconsider your approach. Rather than causing yourself stress or potential harm, you can shift tactics now.

When to Call a Professional

Certain appliance repairs should always be left to the experts. Here are five scenarios where it is essential to get professional help:

1. Complex electrical issues
   If you’re fighting with the wiring in your oven, refrigerator, or washing machine, please call an expert. These appliances can pose significant risks. If you believe you’re dealing with a short circuit or damaged wires, that’s when you need a professional. Complex wiring issues can lead to electric shocks, fires, or even a total failure of the appliance.

2. Gas appliance repairs
   We all know that gas appliances can be dangerous if not treated with the proper respect. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, you need to evacuate immediately and call a professional. Gas leaks not only pose the risk of fires but can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. In the worst-case scenario, there could be an explosion. Gas appliance repairs are best left to those trained to handle such risks.

3. Refrigerant leaks
   Refrigerant leaks are just as dangerous. If you suspect your refrigerator is leaking coolant, do not attempt to fix it on your own. Handling refrigerants without proper training is hazardous, not only to your health but also to anyone else in your household. Professionals have the necessary training and equipment to safely manage refrigerant leaks.

4. Smart appliance troubleshooting
   Smart appliances often have complex software and connectivity features in addition to their hardware. If you’re encountering connectivity issues or software glitches, a professional can diagnose and repair the problem more effectively. Attempting to fix smart appliances on your own could void the warranty, making professional help a smart option.

5. Persistent problems after multiple DIY attempts
   If you’ve tried to fix an appliance several times without success, it’s time to step back. Continuing to attempt repairs can lead to lost parts or make the underlying problem worse. Both will result in a higher bill when you finally call a professional—compared to if you had done so from the start.

Risks of DIY Repairs

While we support doing basic maintenance tasks on your own, repairs come with risks. Here are a few:

• Safety hazards: As we’ve discussed in many of our articles, electrical shocks and gas leaks are serious dangers. If something isn’t repaired properly, it’s all too easy to get hurt. The risk simply isn’t worth it when compared to the safety of you and your family.

• Voiding warranties: As mentioned in last week’s article, appliances often come with warranties. Attempting repairs yourself can easily void these warranties. Always check the fine print to see if your appliance is still covered before diving into a project. It’s much cheaper to have it fixed under warranty than to attempt a DIY repair.

• Costly mistakes: An incorrect repair can lead to further damage and higher costs. It’s all too easy to try fixing one thing and end up damaging other parts, which will then also need repairs. This ends up being much more expensive than calling a professional in the first place.

Tips for DIY Success

If you’re determined to tackle appliance repairs on your own, here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

• Do your research: Make sure you’re thoroughly familiar with your appliance's manual and any online troubleshooting guides. Websites like RepairClinic or YouTube offer step-by-step instructions for many common repairs. The more expert knowledge you gather, the less likely you are to hit a wall.

• Start small: Don’t dive into the deep end. Begin with simple tasks, like replacing bulbs, clamps, or cleaning out the lint duct in your dryer. This will help you build your skills and confidence.

• Know when to stop: The most important skill in DIY repairs is knowing when to stop. If you start feeling overwhelmed or unsure if you’re doing the right thing, take a step back. It’s okay to consult a professional before creating a bigger problem. A good time to stop is if you’ve taken apart your appliance and can’t remember how to reassemble it.

Remember, your time is valuable. Weigh the potential costs of time and materials for a DIY repair against the time you could spend doing other things. There’s also peace of mind in hiring a professional. By understanding when to seek help, you can maintain your appliances efficiently, prolong their lifespan, and ensure a safe environment for you and your family.

Recognizing your limits is an essential part of being a responsible homeowner. While tackling DIY repairs can be fulfilling, there are times when it’s best to call in the experts. If you find yourself facing a challenging appliance issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to Appliance Rescue Service. Our team of skilled technicians is here to help ensure your home runs smoothly and safely.

Website

Call: ( (214) 599-0055)

Additional Reading
Minimize Waste, Maximize Sustainability: The Case for Appliance Repair

Test Your Refrigerator IQ

Unlocking Your Dishwasher: A Troubleshooting Guide

DIY Repairs vs. Your Appliance Warranty: What’s the Real Cost?

Discover why DIY repairs might end up costing you more than hiring a professional.

We’ve all been there—your dishwasher stops draining, or your washing machine begins to leak water just as you’re about to leave for work. Thanks to the rise of online tutorials, it's tempting to say I'll fix it! After all all you need is a few basic tools and a video right?  So why wait for a technician when you can DIY? Pause the moment though before you grab that wrench. It's important to ask: is it really worth the risk? While talking repair on your own seems like a great idea in the moment, One missed step or unaccounted for fact, can end up costing you much more than you think. And your appliance warranty is only the start.

The Safety Net of Appliance Warranties

Appliance warranties are a safety net many of us don't think about right until we need it. The standard warranty you will get, should cover the cost of repairs and replacements for major parts and labor. This gives you peace of mind if something happens within a specific time frame. If for instance your refrigerator is compressor gives out within the warranty period,  you can save hundreds of dollars. Without that warranty? It comes out of your pocket.

A warranty will typically extend from 1 to 5 years depending on the manufacturer. Whether something broke in transit, came off the manufacturing line with something wrong, or it just breaks, that warranty is your lifeline. However warranties also come with strict rules that you have to adhere to. This includes that all repairs are done by licensed professionals. So this means that any DIY attempts can immediately void your safety net.

The True Cost of DIY Repairs

It's so easy to fall into the trap of DIY appliance repairs. You don't want to wait for someone else to have to come, and having to take time off from work in order to be there, and then pay them on top of it. We get that. Especially with online repairs promising it's a quick 5 minute fix and you get the rush of satisfaction knowing you fixed it yourself. 

However, many warranties explicitly state that if you attempt to repair the appliance yourself, it voids the warranty. So, even if you do repair the faulty thermostat in your oven, if you break another sensor in the process of doing it? Your warranty is gone and all future repairs are paid for out of pocket, and that's even if you should have had another four years under the warranty.

You're smart though, you wouldn't try replacing the thermostat in your oven. What about a hose on your washer though? Imagine that you're washing machine starts leaking. After all, in several of our articles we tell you to pay attention to the hoses on your washing machine and to replace as needed,  so you're just trusting us. But in this case, the issue isn't on the outside. It's not easily visible by eye, and all you know is that the washer is leaking. So you find an instructional video online, and you open up the machine. That's where you find a cracked hose. At this point the video has been great so you replace the hose, but you accidentally damaged a small sensor that's needed for telling if the drum is full or not. Well since you opened up your washer, you voided your warranty. This means that you're stuck with the repair bill for the sensor as well as the hose.

This isn't just about your warranties though. Homeowner insurance policies don't always cover DIY repairs either. So this means that Financial risk can go beyond just the appliance. If our washing machine from our last example, continues to leak and damages your floor, you could be on the hook for that. Which then doubles your costs.

Safety and Hidden Risks

We've talked about your warranty and about your homeowners insurance, but doing DIY repairs can also put you at risk. Appliances like an electric dryer or a gas oven serious personal risks. If improperly handled, you can easily be shocked, start a gas leak, or a fire. There is a reason that we always say that if you don't have the proper training or if you're even a little uncertain, to call in a professional. 

A professional will have the proper training, to handle high voltage appliances. Professionals also have to know how to properly disengage gas appliances to safely fix them, without leading to gas or fire hazards.

What's more, many DIY attempts are due to misdiagnosed problems. It's easy to mistake one issue for another without professional training. This leads to improper repairs that not only can worsen the initial problem but they end up costing you time and money. And because it's difficult to get hold of the actual parts you need most fixes end up being temporary at best.

Why Professional Repairs Are Worth It

While DIY repairs may seem like a cost-effective solution at first, the risks involved usually make professional repairs the smarter choice. Licensed technicians are trained to diagnose and fix problems without causing additional damage. More importantly, hiring a professional ensures that your warranty remains intact, allowing you to take full advantage of any future coverage if needed.

Professional repair services also save you time and frustration. They also keep you from the potential of medical bills if something goes wrong. What would take one of us several hours to disassemble research and troubleshoot, is fixed by a technician in a fraction of that time. Certified professionals also have access to trademarked tools and original parts to ensure that the repair is done correctly the first time.

Conclusion: Protect Your Warranty, Protect Your Home

In the end, your appliance warranty is a valuable asset that you shouldn’t risk on a DIY gamble. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to fix things yourself, the potential costs of voiding your warranty and causing further damage simply aren’t worth it. By trusting professional repair services like Appliance Rescue Service, you can rest assured that your appliances will be fixed correctly, keeping your warranty intact and your home running smoothly.

If you do have something that has gone wrong around your home, we hope you'll give us a call. You can reach us through our website or our offices where we will work with you to set up a time and date that fits your schedule. 

Website

Call ((214) 599-0055)

Additional Reading
Prepare Your Home for Fall: Essential Maintenance Tips

Household Hauntings: The Frightening Reality of Appliance Neglect

37 Reasons To Have Your Appliances Maintained Regularly

Keep Your Dishwasher in Top Shape: Maintenance Tips and Tricks

 Are You Maintaining Your Dishwasher Properly?

Have you been taking your dishwasher for granted lately? Just tossing dishes in and not really paying attention to where they go or how they come out? Many of us do it it's easy to forget how useful this workout is. At least until you pull out the dishes and find that they're covered with lime scale or grease. If you would rather not deal with that take this as your sign to go do some TLC for your dishwasher. We will guide you through the steps necessary to keep your dishwasher in prime condition. Fortunately they're so quick and easy you can get them done before bedtime and still have plenty of evening to enjoy.

Debunking the Myth

Let's start with the most common misconception we run into about dishwashers. Doesn't it keep itself clean? The short answer, is no. Many homeowners believe that since the dishwasher is already keeping everything inside it clean that also applies to the dishwasher itself. However without attention from you food particles, grease and hard water residue build up. This reduces your dishwashers efficiency and ability to keep anything else clean. To ensure that your dishwasher performs at its best it's essential to understand how you can clean and maintain it properly.

How to Tell if Your Dishwasher Needs to Be Cleaned

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Of course the first question, is whether or not your dishwasher even needs to be cleaned. This isn't something that needs to be done on a nightly or even weekly basis. 

1. Unpleasant Smells

If a way of stench rolls out of your dishwasher when you open the door that is a clear sign that it needs to be cleaned. Food particles and residue have accumulated somewhere even if it doesn't look obvious. This unpleasant smell can stick around even after you've run a load. 

2. Residual Food or Grease on Dishes

Have you started noticing food or grease left on your dishes even after you've run a wash cycle? This can indicate that your dishwasher needs a thorough cleaning.

3. Clogged Sprayer Arms

If you notice after running your dishwasher that the top specifically is not coming clean you might have an issue with your dishwasher sprayer arm. Food can get clogged in the Jets as can hard water buildup. The sprayer arms are responsible for distributing water and detergent evenly so if they become clogged the dishwasher won't clean effectively.

4. Mold or Mildew

It's unfortunate but mold and mildew can develop inside your dishwasher particularly around seals and in hidden corners. Naturally these create unsanitary conditions which contribute to smells.

Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Running Like New

If you have noticed any of these signs, or you're just thinking it's about time to clean your dishwasher here's your checklist.

Courtesy of Achim Thiemerma

1. Remove the Racks

Start by taking all of the rocks out of your dishwasher. This might be just two or you might have three of them. Either way all of them need to come out, to give you easy access to the inside. Take the time to check all of the wheels both that they spin easily and aren't damaged. 

2. Clean the Filter

Most dishwashers, if not all at this point, have a filter that captures food particles and debris. Check your manual or go online to find it, to find its location. If it's removable, take it out and clean it with warm soapy water. If anything is caked on, you can let it soak for 10 minutes and then scrub carefully with baking soda. Make sure to rinse thoroughly before replacing.

3. Clean the Door and Seals

Mix up a solution of vinegar and dish soap and grab a soft cloth. You're going to gently wipe down the rubber seals around your door to clean up any grime or soil buildup.

4. Clean the Sprayer Arms

Inspect to the sprayer arms of your dishwasher for any blockages. If you find any you can use a toothpick or a similar tool to gently remove debris from the spray holes. You can also wipe the spray arms down with a diluted bleach solution to sanitize them.

5. Scrub Out the Dishwasher

Next up mix a diluted bleach solution to scrub the interior of your dishwasher. At this stage you'll want to use a sponge but not the scrubby side. Using the bleach will help remove any mold or mildew, so make sure to pay attention to nooks and crannies like the tracks that the rack slide on, and the connections for the sprayer arms. 

An important note if you have a stainless steel interior, do not do this. This will damage the interior of your dishwasher if you do so

6. Run a Vinegar Cycle

Put your rocks back into the dishwasher now that they're clean, and pour two cups of white vinegar into a dishwasher safe container. Place that on the top rack where it won't get knocked over. Run the dishwasher on a short or energy saving cycle. If you have the option pause the cycle halfway through so that the vinegar will eat away at any debris or buildup. Let it sit for 20 minutes before finishing the cycle.

7. Schedule Regular Cleanings

Our final step is to look at your schedule and write down the next time you need to do this. But we walked you through today is a thorough cleaning, which should be done every 2 to 4 months depending on how heavily you use your dishwasher. If you only use it once a week, you can do it once every 4 months. If you're running your dishwasher every night, you'll need to do it every 2 months. In between those times a simple vinegar soak like we did in step 6 is enough to keep your dishwasher fresh.

Maintaining your dishwasher is about more than cleaning dishes. It also ensures the long life span of the dishwasher. Regular cleaning and proper care are the key to avoiding any unpleasant surprises as well as keeping it in top shape.

If these steps weren't enough to solve your problems with your dishwasher it might be time to call in a professional. At that point we hope that you remember that our team is here to help. Clients rescue service offers expert repair and maintenance services to keep your home running smoothly. You can reach out to us via our website or by giving us a call to schedule an appointment to keep your dishwasher and your other major appliances performing at their best.

Website

Call: ((214) 599-0055)

Additional Reading

Dishwasher Deep Dive

Why Fall Is the Best Time For a Maintenance Check 

Revolutionizing Kitchen Chores: The Water-Saving Benefits of Dishwashers

Pre-Vacation Appliance Prep: Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Avoid Returning to a Mess: Easy Pre-Travel Appliance Prep

The end of summer is almost here, but there’s still plenty of time for a quick vacation if you’re dying to get out of the heat. While you’re away enjoying cooler weather (or maybe an island, we don’t know what you prefer) your house still is here. Unless we’re going away for months, we tend to leave our homes connected to water and electricity, gas and internet.  All of this is to say that while you’re gone, your home continues on as it normally does. What about your appliances though? We’ve all heard horror stories about people going away on vacation only to come back to a fridge full of mold and slime, or a flooded laundry room. How do you protect against those sorts of things? 

The answer is that like may things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We’ll walk you through everything you’ll need to check on or adjust in  the week before you head on vacation to ensure you come back to a house as perfect as you left it. 

Simple Steps To Start You Off

Unplug Small Appliances - 

Small appliances like your toaster oven, your instant pot, your coffee maker, they all eat up energy whether they're in use or not. If they're there using them every day this makes sense to keep them plugged in. But while you're gone why not save a few bucks on your electric bill? 

Equally important although rare, these can cause fire if left unattended.

Turn Off Your Water Supply 

courtesy of JuraKovr

This solves several different problems at once, although we're not saying that you should go to your water main and turn that off. This can be a hassle, and not something you’ll want to deal with right after returning from vacation. Instead turn off the water supply at the different appliances especially your dishwasher and washing machine. If either were to get a cracked line while you're gone you can come home to water damage or flooding depending on how long you're gone for.

 

Don’t Turn Off Your AC 

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Unlike with your appliances, you don’t want to turn off your ac. The reason is mold and mildew, and heat damage around the home. With your home heating and cooling in accordance to the temperatures, it can easily get warm enough to allow mold and mildew to begin growing while you’re gone. Additionally, anything around the house that is temperature sensitive can be damaged. A few quick examples include medicines, cleaning products, and your spices. Instead, set it to around 80* while you’re gone to use less energy, but not risk anything becoming damaged while you’re gone. 

Time to Tackle Your Major Appliances 

Run The Dishwasher

Running the dishwasher before you go kills two birds with one stone. One, you’re not going to come back to a sink of moldy or sentient dishes, and two, if you leave the dishwasher door open after running and emptying it, the dishwasher itself won’t smell musty. You also want to make sure that it is completely drained before you leave. Unwanted guests love stagnant water, and yes we're talking about bugs and mosquitoes.

Washing Machine

Many travel lists will tell you to do laundry before you leave home. We feel that this is an unnecessary step if you don't need to already do laundry. However whether you do laundry or not you do need to leave the washing machine door open. Just like with your dishwasher you don't want it to develop a musty smell while you're gone. 

Courtesy of Courtesy of planetcar

Additionally, you want to make sure to inspect all hoses for any blisters, bulges, cracks, or leaks. Taking the time to do this now means you can spot problems before they grow into something much larger. 

Dryer 

Take a minute to clean out the trap and you’ll be good to do as much laundry as is needed on your return. Since it won't be running while you're gone, there's little to worry about with this one.

Oven and Stove

Whether gas or electric, these are the easiest to handle prior to going on vacation. 

You don’t need to unplug it, or turn off the gas, just make sure that all burners are off before you leave. Other than that, the only rthing you’ll need to worry about is cleaning up any residue or burnt food before you leave, to avoid attracting any unwanted pests. 

Water Heater

Although not an appliance, we do recommend turning down or even powering off, your water heater, as one more way to cut down on bills while you’re away. 

Finally, Check Smoke Detectors And Carbon Monoxide Alarms 

Ensure that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning correctly before you leave. Replace batteries if necessary to guarantee your home’s safety in your absence. 

Courtesy of Rudy and Peter Skitterians

Now that you’ve taken all the right steps to protect your home while you’re soaking up the sun or savoring cooler breezes, there’s just one more thing to check off your list. Before you head out, make sure your appliances are in top shape with a quick inspection from our expert technicians at Appliance Rescue Service. Whether it's checking for potential issues or giving your appliances a little extra care, our team is here to help ensure everything runs smoothly while you’re away.

Don’t leave it to chance—schedule an appointment today by giving us a call or visiting our website. That way, you can truly relax on your vacation, knowing your home is in good hands. Safe travels, and we’ll see you when you get back!

Website
Call ((214) 599-0055) 

Additional Reading
Appliance Deep Dive Round Up 

Why Is My Refrigerator Making Weird Noises!?

Taking the Pain Out Of Melted Plastic