It’s never a pretty sight to see an appliance break down. The process of getting things repaired on any day is a terrible pain in the posterior. Worse than that is when you try to get it fixed and then find out is irreparable. Then you need to go about replacing it!
Every appliance will eventually run its course, but it is best to make sure that the course is a long one. Read on to learn how to keep your appliances alive and kicking for as long as possible!
Ovens
The first thing you should check on your oven is the door. The sealant on the door must be tight or else heat will escape during its use. If left unchecked, this will affect the outcome of the food you cook in it.
To check the seal, feel around the rubber or fiberglass gasket and see if it has any deformities. If you can’t feel anything, next try closing it and turning the oven on. If you can find any leaks around the rim where heat seems to be escaping, replace the seal immediately.
Make sure you wash down your oven after every use. If the oven is left with rust or burnt food particles, it can permanently damage the oven. Be sure to use the grease filters by hand every couple of uses. (You can also use a dishwasher if you have one that’s big enough)
Don’t forget to clean the drip bowls under the burner as well. If these fill up and overflow, your oven won’t last long.
Refrigerators
You may not notice immediately, but the coils on your fridge get clogged up after a while due to hair and dirt. You should clean them out with a handheld vacuum cleaner every year or so. (More often if you have a hairy dog)
You must also remember to change the water filter every once in a while. The filter doesn’t filter 100% of the impurities that it finds and will also start to get clogged up in time. Usually, it is quite easy to remove the water filter of a refrigerator but if you aren’t sure, do consult an instruction manual or the company you bought it from.
Washing Machines and Dryers
The main thing to check for a washing machine is the hose. The first thing that breaks on a washing machine is always the hose. The only other thing you need to watch out for is that you don’t fill the machine up with too many clothes and don’t place metallic objects inside the machine while its on or it may get damaged.
In the case of the dryer, whether it is a part of the washing machine or a separate machine, you need to clean the exhaust. Loosen the clamp and remove the exhaust from the machine. Clean out anything that’s inside and vacuum it.
If you follow all the above tips, you will successfully prolong the lifespan of your home appliances!