Your home appliances are some of the most expensive pieces of equipment in your home, so it’s essential to take care of them and prolong their lifespan as much as possible. Many homeowners don’t realize how easy it is to damage their appliances and shorten their lifespan.
If you want to ensure that your appliances last for as long as possible, you can take a few simple steps.
Maintaining Your Appliances
No one likes it when their home appliances break down. In addition to the inconvenience, appliance repairs can be costly. The best way to avoid these issues is to take preventive measures to prolong the lifespan of your appliances. Here are a few tips on how you can do that.
1. Read the owner’s manual
This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t bother to read their appliance’s owner’s manual. The manual contains essential information on operating and maintaining your appliances correctly. Not following the recommended guidelines could void your warranty or cause irreparable damage.
2. Clean them regularly
Another way to keep your appliances in tip-top shape is to clean them regularly, both inside and out. Wiping down the exterior of your fridge, oven, and other appliances will prevent dirt and grime from building up, making them more difficult (and costly) to clean later on. Cleaning the interior of your home appliances will also help remove any built-up residue, which can lead to decreased efficiency and potential breakdowns.
3. Inspect them for signs of wear and tear
It’s essential to inspect your appliances regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, loose wires, or fraying cords. If you notice any damage, no matter how small, it’s best to get it fixed immediately before it has a chance to worsen and cause more significant problems down the road.
Cleaning Your Appliances
Regular cleaning is the key to prolonging the lifespan of your home appliances. Here are a few tips on the best way to clean different types of machines.
Oven
Over time, your oven can become filled with grease and burnt-on food residue. This not only looks unappealing but can also affect the performance of your oven. To clean your oven, start by removing the racks and scrubbing them with soapy water. Then, use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the inside of the oven. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a professional oven cleaning service. You need this service at least once a year.
Refrigerator
Your fridge is one of the appliances that you use on a daily basis, so it’s essential to keep it clean. Start by cleaning the inside of the fridge with a solution of warm water and baking soda. Then, wipe down the door gaskets and seals with a damp cloth. Finally, clean the outside of the fridge with mild detergent.
Dishwasher
To keep your dishwasher in good working condition, it’s important to clean it on a regular basis. Start by running an empty cycle with vinegar to remove any built-up residue. Then, clean the exterior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth. Lastly, remove the dishwasher’s filters and wash them with soapy water.
Washing Machine
Just like your dishwasher, your washing machine needs to be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent build-up and ensure peak performance. Start by running an empty cycle with vinegar. Then, wipe down the exterior of the washing machine with a damp cloth. Next, clean the washing machine’s detergent dispenser with a toothbrush. Finally, remove and clean the lint filter.
Dryer
In addition to cleaning the lint filter after every load, you should also clean your dryer on a regular basis. Start by unplugging the dryer and moving it away from the wall. Then, vacuum any lint that has accumulated around the dryer vent. Next, disconnect the dryer vent and vacuum it as well. Finally, clean the inside of the dryer drum with a damp cloth.
Air Conditioner
To keep your air conditioner in good working condition, it’s important to clean the filters on a regular basis. Depending on the type of air conditioner you have, the filters may be located in the unit itself or in the ductwork. To clean the filters, simply remove them and wash them with soapy water.
The bottom line
By following these simple tips, you can help prolong the lifespan of your home appliances and avoid costly repairs down the road. Taking good care of your appliances now will save you time and money in the long run.
