We all know the frustration and cost of having to replace an appliance - Being proactive in the maintenance of your home appliances can help save you time and money.
Here are a few basic tips to help you keep your appliances functioning at their best.
Refrigerator
- Clean the condenser coils beneath and behind the fridge. The dust makes your fridge run less efficiently.
- Clean the gasket seals with warm water and mild detergent to keep them well sealed, clean and flexible.
- If you have a water filter (for water and ice), replace it every six months to help prevent clogs, leaks and cleaner water.
Toaster oven
- Regularly cleaning and removing crumbs from toaster ovens helps to reduce the risk of fire.
Microwave/Range Hood
- When was the last time you cleaned the grease filter in your over the range microwave? Soak the filter in hot water and detergent, (ammonia-free) , and lightly scrub.
- Keeping the inside of your microwave clean helps it function at its best. Microwave a bowl of water and lemon juice for a minute to help remove stuck on food.
Garbage disposal
- Keep the blades sharp and clean and odours at away by running a cut up lemon in the disposal with warm water.
Stovetop
- Cooktops - Ceramic cooktops work best when clean. Use a product specifically for cooktops and wipe clean regularly.
- Traditional coil burners - Inspect coil burners making certain they are level and without ‘hot spots’ that could result in a short and a fire hazard. Replace burners with defects immediately.
Oven
- To avoid a fire hazard, regularly clean your oven. Follow the safety precautions exactly as detailed in your owner’s manual.
Washing Machine
- Detergent residue can build up inside washing machine tubs. Use a cleaner once a month to keep washing machines odour and residue-free.
- Inspect the hoses on a monthly basis for signs of wear or damage
Dishwasher
- Remove the racks and remove debris in the holes of the spinning arms.
- Clean the edges of the door around the gasket to help prevent leaks.
- The area under the bottom of the door can accumulate debris, be sure to remove any stuck on food particles.
- If mildew or mold is a problem in your dishwasher, leave the door open for a few hours after use, allowing the machine to dry out.
- Regularly inspect the hoses for signs of wear or damage.
Dryer
- Clear out the lint trap after every use. Follow the directions in your owner’s manual to disassemble the dryer and vacuum out accumulated lint on a yearly basis.
- Regularly check the area around the dryer’s vent cap outside to be sure it’s not blocked by leaves or landscaping to help with proper air flow.
- Your dryer’s entire venting system should be cleaned out at least once a year (from the inside of the dryer to the outside vent). You may need to hire a professional to do this, but it’s important for fire safety.
Before tackling any appliance maintenance, for you and your home’s safety, please be sure to follow the exact directions in your owner’s manual. If you’ve lost or misplaced your manual, a quick Google search can be done to find one online.