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Commonly Overlooked Appliance Maintenance Tips

By December 23, 2020April 12th, 2023No Comments
Overlooked Appliance Maintenance Tips, Commonly Overlooked Appliance Maintenance Tips

If the last time you’ve given your appliances attention was when you took them out of the box, it might be time to give them a second look. Neglecting appliances can affect how efficiently they run, how long they last, and can even become dangerous. Whether you’re a new homeowner or you’ve lived in your home for years, keep reading for some helpful tips to keep your appliances squeaky clean and working like you just got them. 

Refrigerator 

Clean under and behind your refrigerator; cleaning the coils underneath will increase airflow, therefore helping cool down the unit. It also reduces dirt buildup, which could cause a fire if dirty enough. This tip can often save homeowners money on electricity because the fridge will run more efficiently. 

It is also a good idea to clean the inside of your refrigerator quarterly. Removing everything and wiping down the interior with a disinfectant and deodorizing solution will ensure your food and fridge stay fresh and clean. 

Dishwasher

No one wants to empty their dishwasher only to find that the dishes are still dirty. If this sounds familiar, a simple cleaning could get it working like new again. There are places inside the dishwasher than can collect buildup or clog. First, check the filter system – generally located at the bottom of the machine – and ensure that no leftover food is blocking the filter. Cleaning the filter will prevent odors and help your machine to run quieter. Next, check the spray arm. The spray arm may need to be cleaned as it can collect mineral residue, affecting the amount of hot water that cleans your dishes. 

Garbage Disposal 

While it may seem like a hassle to clean your garbage disposal, there are some simple tips to keep it running smooth and smelling fresh. Keep the blades sharp by putting a cup of ice down the disposal with water. To get rid of odor coming from the disposal, you can put lemon slices down to deodorize. This will also help to breakdown grease or food buildup. 

Stovetop and Oven 

Wipe down the stovetop after every use to keep it looking spotless. To clean the knobs, soak them in water rather than spraying cleaner onto the stovetop to ensure a safer and more efficient clean.  

It is recommended to clean your oven at least twice a year. Take out the racks and clean them individually to reduce buildup and keep your oven looking brand-new. 

Washer and Dryer 

It is a good habit to leave the washer door open after doing a load of laundry. Closing the lid right after running a load can cause mold or mildew within your machine. Let it air out first! Additionally, avoid overloads. Consistently running large loads of laundry not only affects the cleanliness of your clothes but increases the wear and tear and longevity of your machines. Most importantly, ALWAYS make sure to keep the exhaust vents and lint traps clean – the failure to do this can result in a fire!