Today's home appliances are better designed than ever and built to last a long time. However, even the sturdiest appliances can develop problems that cause them to fail. There are some things that homeowners can do to help extend the life of devices and reduce the chances of breakdowns. Follow a few pro tips to keep your refrigerator, washer and dryer, stove, dishwater, and garbage disposal working efficiently.
- Refrigerator
Modern refrigerators are well-made and require minimal care to function well for years, but owners can take steps to keep them efficient and avoid problems.
Avoid overloading the refrigerator and freezer because it causes the compressor to work hard and use excess energy as it tries to keep everything cold. The freezer should be kept reasonably full since frozen food generates coolness. When the freezer only has a few items, consider adding water jugs.
It's also crucial to clean the condenser coils on the back of the refrigerator. Vacuuming coils will remove dust and dirt.
Many refrigerators are now elaborate, pricey, and include features like electronics. As a result, they can develop expensive problems regardless of routine maintenance. But homeowners can still avoid the cost of repairs on a refrigerator or other appliances by finding a good home warranty. There are various plans available, but they all offer protection in emergencies.
- Stove
Per How-To Geek experts, stoves require minimal care to function well. If you keep them clean, they can last a very long time.
Most ovens are now self-cleaning, so maintenance is almost effortless. But it's still essential to wipe down a cooktop and ensure no food is left on burners.
- Washer and Dryer
Avoid overloading a washer to help extend its life. It's best to wash small loads and wipe down the insides when finished, to remove any residue.
After washing a load, keep the door open to help evaporate excess moisture. It's also crucial to ensure the machine is level since an unbalanced machine can vibrate, damaging its parts.
Removing lint after each use is vital to maintaining a dryer. State Farm experts recommend vacuuming underneath and behind dryers every three months to remove lint, dirt, and moisture. It also helps to wipe the lint screen with a softener sheet and then wipe down the dryer's interior.
Check the exhaust to ensure it's not clogged by debris. Don't overload the dryer and ensure that it is balanced. Unbalanced machines wear out much faster.
- Dishwasher
It's critical to clean a dishwasher to keep it efficient and prevent issues. Inspect the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher and remove any food or debris that has accumulated, to ensure nothing clogs the hose.
Overloading a machine prevents it from cleaning all the dishes and usually means rerunning it, adding wear and tear. To save energy, run a kitchen faucet and get the water hot before starting the dishwasher. This allows the machine to begin working without needing to heat the element.
- Garbage Disposal
To keep a garbage disposal working well, avoid putting items like eggshells, bones, grease, fat, hard materials, and non-food items into it. Disposals also should be cleaned to keep them efficient and to avoid unpleasant odors.
There are commercial products designed to be put into disposals monthly to keep them clean and fresh. But avoid DIY hacks like coffee grounds and chlorine bleach, which reduce odors in the short term but can cause damage later.
Home appliances represent a significant investment, but they are designed to last for years with good care. Professional repairs can extend the life of appliances if they break down, and a home warranty will defray the cost of the work. Follow manufacturers' directions and use pro tips to keep your washer, dryer, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and garbage disposal in excellent working condition.
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