How to Get Your Appliances Ready for the Holidays

The holiday season is just around the corner, and that means more gatherings, larger meals, and a busy kitchen. With so much activity, it’s important to make sure your appliances are up to the challenge! Here are some practical tips to get your appliances ready to handle the holiday rush, so you can enjoy stress-free festivities.

Hands placing a baking tray with star-shaped cookies into a spotless oven, with a festive Christmas tree softly lit in the background. A perfect example of why a clean oven is essential for holiday cooking and baking success.

1. Give Your Oven a Thorough Clean

Your oven will likely be working overtime during the holidays, so it’s a great time to give it a good clean. Built-up grease and food residue can affect cooking times and even lead to smoky conditions. Here’s how to get it ready:

Deep Clean the Interior: Use an oven cleaner or a mix of baking soda and vinegar to scrub away grime. Pay special attention to the racks and the bottom of the oven.

Check the Door Seal: Heat can escape from a worn or loose seal, affecting cooking times. If it’s damaged, consider replacing it to ensure even heating.

Pro Tip: Avoid running the self-cleaning cycle right before a big meal, as this feature can sometimes cause issues with older ovens. Instead, clean it manually or well in advance.

An open refrigerator filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, beverages, and essentials, showcasing a well-organized and fully stocked interior with optimal cooling. A properly maintained freezer and refrigerator will last longer and keep your food fresher.

2. Test Your Refrigerator and Freezer Temperature

With all the extra ingredients and leftovers, your fridge and freezer will be packed. To keep everything fresh, check that these appliances are set to the right temperature:

Fridge Temperature: Make sure it’s set to 37-40°F to keep perishables safe.

Freezer Temperature: Keep it at 0°F for optimal food preservation.

Check the Door Seals: Cold air can escape through damaged seals. Run a dollar bill test by placing a bill in the door and closing it; if it slips out easily, it’s time to replace the seal.

Pro Tip: Clean out expired or unnecessary items to free up space and improve airflow. This will help keep everything cool even with added holiday ingredients.

3. Run a Maintenance Cycle on Your Dishwasher

A reliable dishwasher is essential for cleaning up after holiday gatherings. Keep it running smoothly by doing a little maintenance:

Clean the Filter: Remove and rinse the filter to clear out food debris that could affect performance.

Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle. This will help clear out buildup and odors.

Inspect the Spray Arms: Make sure they rotate freely and that the holes aren’t blocked by food particles. A clean spray arm will ensure every dish comes out sparkling.

Pro Tip: Don’t overload the dishwasher! It may be tempting, but overcrowding can reduce cleaning effectiveness and lead to more re-washes.

A pile of clean, colorful laundry sits on the floor in front of two white washing machines, serviced by Sam's Appliance Repair, in a modern laundry room.

4. Check Your Washer and Dryer

Holiday linens, guest towels, and extra laundry mean your washer and dryer will be working hard. A little prep can help avoid issues and keep everything running efficiently.

Inspect the Hoses: Look for cracks or leaks in the washer hoses. If they’re worn, consider replacing them to prevent water damage.

Clean the Lint Trap and Vent: A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. Make sure the lint trap is clean before every load, and consider giving the vent a thorough cleaning before the holidays.

Run a Cleaning Cycle: Most washers have a cleaning cycle. Use it with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of hot water and vinegar to keep the drum fresh and odor-free.

Pro Tip: Try to avoid overloading the washer and dryer. Large, heavy loads can strain these machines, leading to potential breakdowns.

5. Inspect Smaller Appliances

From the microwave to the coffee maker, small appliances are essential for a smooth holiday season. Give them a quick once-over:

Clean the Microwave: A simple mixture of water and lemon can help loosen food particles and eliminate odors. Microwave the solution for a few minutes and wipe clean.

Descale the Coffee Maker: Run a cycle with a mixture of half water and half vinegar to remove mineral buildup. This will keep your coffee tasting fresh for holiday mornings.

Sharpen or Replace Blender Blades: If you plan to use your blender for holiday recipes, make sure the blades are sharp and clean for smooth blending.

Pro Tip: Check each appliance’s power cord for wear or damage. Replacing damaged cords can prevent electrical issues.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your appliances for the holiday season can save you time and prevent breakdowns when you need them most. With a little maintenance now, you can relax and enjoy more time with family and friends—and less time worrying about appliances! If you encounter any issues that need professional appliance repair, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (330) 313-1303 or fill out our contact form today. We’re here to help you make this holiday season stress-free and efficient!