Home appliances make life easier, but they’re also major investments. Whether it’s your refrigerator, washer, or microwave, a little routine maintenance goes a long way in keeping everything running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs.
If you’re a homeowner looking to get the most out of your appliances, these simple care tips can help.
Neglecting basic maintenance can lead to:
On the other hand, regular care can help prevent these issues and keep your appliances working like new for years.
Clean the Coils: Every six months, vacuum or brush the condenser coils. These are usually found on the back or bottom of the fridge. Dirty coils make your refrigerator work harder and use more energy.
Check Door Seals: Ensure the door gaskets are clean and tight. A loose or dirty seal allows cold air to escape, which increases energy use.
Set the Right Temperature: Keep the fridge at or below 40°F and the freezer at 0°F for food safety and energy efficiency.
Washer:
Dryer:
Consumer Reports offers a helpful guide: Washer and Dryer Maintenance
Wipe Spills Immediately: Spills can lead to smoke, odors, and even fire hazards if not cleaned up quickly.
Check Burner Flame: A weak or yellow flame on a gas stove may mean the burner is clogged or there’s a gas flow issue.
Deep Clean Periodically: Clean burner grates, oven interiors, and knobs regularly to prevent grease buildup and improve performance.
Cover Food When Heating: This helps avoid splatters and keeps the inside clean.
Clean Regularly: Steam-clean the interior using a bowl of water and vinegar, then wipe down with a soft cloth.
Close the Door Gently: Slamming the microwave door can damage the latch and sensors, so open and close it with care.
Even with regular care, some problems are best handled by a trained technician. Contact an appliance repair professional if you notice:
Routine maintenance doesn’t take much time, but it can save you money and headaches in the long run. Make these simple appliance care tasks part of your monthly routine. And when something doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.