Every year, innovations in home appliance technology are released. However, for the foreseeable future, it doesn't seem as though self-maintaining devices are part of the picture. No matter how old or new your appliances are, periodic maintenance can extend their life.

With the warm weather that Summer brings, your cooling appliances are working extra hard. Performing a few of the preventive maintenance tasks from the list below can help to keep them running smoother and more efficiently throughout the rest of the year.

There are also a few tasks that should be performed on your major appliances. Tackling these cleaning tasks regularly prevents grime from accumulating, which can damage your appliances. You invest a lot of money into your appliances-help them to last as long as possible.

• Oven and Range -  Use the self cleaner when available, or clean the interior with an oven cleaner like Easy Off.  Cook tops receive the most abuse, so clean them regularly.  Remove racks and burner grates and soak them in the sink.  Wash with a soft brush to remove cooked-on food.
• Microwave - Try placing a cup of water inside and heat on high for about three minutes.  When finished, leave the door closed another five minutes to allow the steam to permeate the stain, use a sponge to finish the job.
• Refrigerator - Condenser coils gradually become clogged with dust and pet hair, reducing the efficiency of your fridge.  To clean the coils, use a vacuum wand or coil brush (available at hardware stores).  To access the coils, you can find them on the backside of older refrigerators; on newer models you should be able to access them from the front by removing the grill.  Check gaskets (seals) - loose gaskets waste energy and could raise the interior temperature of the fridge.  Close the door on a dollar bill and tug on the exposed end of the bill; if it moves, the gasket needs to be replaced.
• Stainless Steel Appliances - Stainless steel needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent corrosion.  Fortunately you cant "wear out" these surfaces by over-cleaning, so attack the grime often.  Specially formulated stainless steal cleaners are available, but most dirt, stains, and oils can be removed with undiluted white or cider vinegar.  Avoid abrasive cleaners and steel wool pads.
• Washer and Dryer - Never pretreat or lay treated clothes directly on the surface of your washer or dryer; detergents and solvents can corrode the enamel.  Use a long-nosed vacuum attachment to clean lint out of hard-to-reach crannies of your dryer.  If your dryer's interior is stained with crayon or ink, you can clan it with an all purpose cleaner.  Then throw some old, clean rags or towels in for a cycle to remove any excess residue.

The Moore Team

480-545-1043

www.tonymoore.com