How Can I Extend the Lifespan of my Appliances?

Extending the lifespan of your home appliances can save you money, reduce waste, and ensure that your devices perform optimally for longer periods. Proper maintenance, regular cleaning, and mindful usage are key factors in prolonging the life of your appliances. Here are some detailed tips and practices for various common household appliances.

General Tips for All Appliances

1. Schedule regular maintenance. Some appliances benefit from professional maintenance checks. Schedule these as recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Keep appliances level. Ensure that all appliances are on a level surface. This helps prevent excessive vibration and wear.

3. Avoid overworking. Give your appliances a break. For example, do not run back-to-back loads in the washer or dryer without a short rest period in between.

Refrigerator

1. Clean the coils. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the condenser coils, forcing the refrigerator to work harder. Clean the coils every six months using a coil brush or vacuum cleaner.

2. Check the door seals. Ensure the door seals (gaskets) are airtight. A loose seal allows cool air to escape, making the refrigerator work harder. Clean the seals regularly and replace them if they are worn out.

3. Set the right temperature. Keep the refrigerator between 37-40°F (3-4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C). This prevents overworking the appliance while keeping your food fresh.

4. Organize the contents. Avoid overloading your refrigerator and freezer, as proper air circulation is crucial for maintaining the right temperature.

5. Change the water and air filter. If you don’t change the water and air filter on a quarterly basis, this could affect the quality of food storage and water distribution. Set a schedule for you to regularly change out these filters if your refrigerator does not have a built in system to do so.

Washing Machine

1. Use the right detergent. High-efficiency (HE) washers require low-sudsing detergents. Using the right amount of detergent prevents residue build-up and keeps the machine running smoothly.

2. Clean the drum and dispenser.  Run a maintenance wash with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner monthly to prevent mold, mildew, and detergent buildup.

3. Check the hoses. Inspect the water hoses for signs of wear or leaks every few months and replace them every 5 years or if they show signs of damage.

4. Balance the load. Avoid overloading the machine and distribute clothes evenly. Unbalanced loads can cause excessive wear on the drum and motor.

Dryer

1. Clean the lint filter.  After every load, clean the lint filter to ensure proper airflow. A clogged filter forces the dryer to work harder and can be a fire hazard.

2. Check the venting system. Inspect and clean the vent hose and duct to remove lint build-up every 6 months. Ensure the vent cap outside is free of obstructions.

3. Avoid overloading. Just like with your washing machine, do not overload the dryer. Overloading can strain the motor and lead to longer drying times.

4. Use the right settings. Use the moisture sensor setting if available. It stops the dryer as soon as clothes are dry, saving energy and reducing wear and tear.

Dishwasher

1. Run hot water before starting.  Before starting your dishwasher, run the hot water tap in your kitchen sink. This ensures that the dishwasher starts with hot water, enhancing cleaning efficiency.

2. Clean the filter.  Regularly remove and clean the filter to prevent food particles from clogging the drain and reducing performance.

3. Use the right detergent. Choose high-quality dishwasher detergents and avoid using too much. Excessive detergent can cause build-up and reduce efficiency.

4. Inspect the spray arms. Ensure that the spray arms are not clogged and can rotate freely. Remove any debris that may be obstructing the spray nozzles.

Oven and Stove

1. Clean Spills immediately. Clean up spills and food residues immediately to prevent them from hardening and becoming difficult to remove. Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging surfaces.

2. Check the Door Seals. Inspect the oven door seals for any gaps or damage. A properly sealed oven retains heat better, improving efficiency and cooking performance.

3. Use the Self-Cleaning Feature Wisely. If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, use it sparingly as it heats the oven to very high temperatures, which can strain the appliance.

4. Calibrate the Oven. If you notice that your oven is not heating to the correct temperature, it may need recalibration. Refer to your oven’s manual or contact a professional.

Microwave

1. Avoid Running Empty. Do not run the microwave empty, as this can cause serious damage. Microwaves need the moisture in food to absorb the energy they produce.

2. Clean Regularly.  Wipe down the interior after each use to prevent food splatters from hardening. A clean microwave works more efficiently.

3. Use Microwave-Safe Containers. Only use containers labeled as microwave-safe. Certain plastics and metals can cause damage or even fires.

4. Check the Door Seal. Ensure the door closes tightly to prevent microwave energy from leaking. If the seal is damaged, replace it immediately.

By following these tips and maintaining a regular care routine, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your home appliances, ensuring they remain efficient and reliable for many years.

Have questions about maintaining your appliance or need to schedule a repair? Simply give us a call or fill out our Service Request form and one of our appliance repair technicians will be happy to help!