DIY Tips For Making Your Appliances Last

In today's fast-paced world, where we heavily rely on our appliances to make daily tasks more convenient and efficient, it is crucial to ensure that our appliances are functioning at their best. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your appliances but also helps you avoid costly repairs in the future. With the right knowledge and a little bit of effort, you can easily perform DIY maintenance on your appliances.

Refrigerator and Freezer

• If you have a water dispenser or ice maker in your unit, be sure to change the water filter every six months. If you need help finding which filter to purchase, check out your owner's manual for your refrigerator.

• Get out the vacuum and use it to clean off the refrigerator and freezer coils at least once a year. Refer to your owner's manual to find where your coils are located for your specific model.

• Grime or ice buildup can lower efficiency so be sure to regularly clean out your refrigerator and freezer.

Dishwasher

• Deep clean your dishwasher every six months.

• Is your dishwasher smelly? Buy Zep heavy-duty cleaner and run it through a cycle to get rid of the smell. You can find it at your local home depot or click the link to purchase on Amazon here --> https://amzn.to/3ULMPW0

• Replace rusty tines (the vertical spikes on the racks) so they don’t stain your dishes.

Oven, Stove and Range

• If you use your oven’s self-cleaning mode, wait a full 6 hours. Then unplug it and wipe down the inside with a mixture of white vinegar and water. Plug it back in and allow it to reset.

• If your stove has coil burners, check for small red spots along the coils. The spots could indicate that the burner will short out soon and needs to be replaced!

• Make sure to clean your oven every 6 months to keep it working in tip-top shape!

Microwave

• If you have a microwave with an accessible plug, unplug it when not in use to conserve energy and lower your monthly energy bills!

• Be sure not to start the microwave with nothing inside it. This can cause damage to the unit or even cause a fire.

• Clean your microwave at least once per year to keep it working for longer.

Washing Machine

• If your washer starts to shake, make sure it is leveled (check underneath to see if there is some debris that could be causing the issue.)

• If your unit is smelly, purchase some Zep heavy-duty cleaner at your local Home Depot or click this link to purchase it on Amazon --> https://amzn.to/3ULMPW0

• Clean the washer’s lint trap every six months to ensure that the unit lasts longer.

Dryer

• Be sure to clean the lint trap after every use.

• Schedule a professional maintenance on the unit every 3 to 6 months to ensure the long lifespan of your unit.

One of the first and most important steps in DIY appliance maintenance is reading the manufacturer's manual. This will give you valuable information on how to properly care for your appliance and troubleshoot common issues. It is also essential to regularly clean your appliances to prevent dirt and debris from causing damage. For example, regularly cleaning the lint trap in your dryer can prevent fires and improve the efficiency of the appliance. Another important aspect of appliance maintenance is checking for any signs of wear and tear. For instance, if you notice that the seals on your refrigerator are worn out, it is important to replace them to ensure that the appliance is running efficiently. Additionally, it is crucial to check for any strange noises or unusual smells coming from your appliances, as this could be a sign of a potential issue that needs to be addressed. When it comes to specific appliances, there are different maintenance tasks that you can perform. For example, for your dishwasher, regularly cleaning the filter and checking for clogs can help prevent water buildup and improve its performance. For your oven, regularly cleaning the interior and ensuring that the heating elements are working properly can help maintain its efficiency. In conclusion, DIY appliance maintenance is an essential part of ensuring that your appliances are running smoothly and efficiently. By taking the time to properly care for your appliances, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your appliances. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's manual for guidance and do not hesitate to seek professional help if needed. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can enjoy the benefits of your appliances for years to come.