When you buy a new appliance, you plan to use it for a very long time. However, this is not always the case. Even if your appliances are used properly, chances are they will start to malfunction over time. Below I have outlined four tips to help keep your appliances in good shape for a long period of time.
1. Clean the coils of your refrigerator
The coils at the back of your refrigerator are responsible for cooling your food and drinks. Over time, they can become covered with dust and grime, which reduces their efficiency. To clean them:
Turn off and unplug the appliance. Use a vacuum to remove as much loose dirt as possible; then wipe any remaining dirt away with a damp cloth or sponge.
Use a coil brush attachment to remove any remaining debris from inside each coil. If yours has an opening where you can see the coils, use tweezers to remove any debris that may have fallen inside during cleaning.
If you have a dehumidifier in your home, turn it on for several hours before you begin cleaning so that moisture doesn’t build up inside the refrigerator as you clean its coils.
2. Avoid putting hot pots or pans on the stove
When taking a pan off the stovetop, be sure to use an oven mitt or pot holder to avoid burns. If you are using a hot pot that needs to be transferred to another burner, set it on a trivet or pad first so it doesn’t scratch your countertop or burn your hands when moved from one surface to another.
3. Clean your dryer’s lint filter
Clean your dryer’s lint filter. A dirty lint filter doesn’t allow hot air to circulate properly through the dryer, which can lead to higher energy bills and even damage. Cleaning it once per month should be sufficient, but definitely do so after every large load of laundry.
4. Clean the exhaust vent
The exhaust vent is an important part of any appliance. It allows air and heat to escape from inside the unit so that it doesn’t overheat or catch fire. If you don’t clean out this vent regularly, dust and dirt can build up inside the unit over time, which could cause it to malfunction or break down entirely.
You might not know it, but there are simple actions you can take to ensure that your appliances last a lot longer. With proper maintenance, they can last you anywhere from 10-15 years or longer. If you don’t perform regular maintenance on your appliances, they may breakdown a lot sooner than if you did. Remember to schedule annual appliance maintenance with your local repair company to ensure your appliances are working perfectly and last as long as possible!
Follow these tips to not only keep your household appliances in optimal condition, but also to prevent them from chewing through your budget. Don’t let the size of a home appliance fool you into thinking that it’s a one-time purchase! The most common breakdowns are easy to avoid so follow these 4 tips to extend the life and save money on appliances.
