Tips For Keeping Your Appliances Working Properly 

Taking care of your appliances extends their lifespan, prevents unnecessary wear and tear, and saves money in the long run. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your appliances clean, running efficiently, and in good working condition. Many people often ask, “Is home warranty worth it?” and many would tell you that maintenance and care for your appliances is a big deal. But with wear and tear a home warranty can provide some peace of mind on repairs. 

Each appliance comes with a user manual that contains specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines. Follow the tips and suggestions provided in these manuals to maintain optimum performance. 

Read the Manuals 

There are a lot of appliances out there that require specific instructions to install, set-up and operate. These instructions are provided by a user manual. They also contain important information that could be vital for you to know. For instance, a user manual can include a “do not” section that warns you of things that can reduce 

the appliance’s lifespan or impact its performance, invalidate your warranty and help reduce potential hazards and injuries. 

Most owners or user manuals also recommend maintenance strategies for your appliance throughout its lifespan. Without these strategies, it can be easy to miss out on regular cleaning tasks that can impact the longevity of your appliance. 

Once you have gathered all your appliance manuals and other documentation, it’s a good idea to store them in a folder or filing cabinet with dividers for large and small appliances. This makes it easier to quickly find the right information when needed. It also helps limit the amount of clutter in your home. 

Change the Filters 

Most appliances require a filter to clean the water or air, which makes them work harder when they’re dirty. Changing filters on a regular basis—such as every three months for HVAC systems or after each use for dryer lint filters—will reduce the overall wear and tear on your appliance and extend its lifespan. 

Many appliances have warning signs that you should pay attention to, like a leaking refrigerator or strange noises. Taking note of these problems and getting them fixed as soon as possible will prevent them from worsening over time, which can stress other parts of the appliance and lead to a full breakdown. 

Appliance repairs are often expensive, but you can minimize them with preventative care. Small things, such as cleaning soap scum from washing machines or cleaning the freezer door seals, can go a long way in prolonging your appliance’s life. In addition, keeping up with basic maintenance will optimize energy efficiency and keep your utility bills lower. 

Check the Door Seals 

Home appliances do a lot for us, but they’re not indestructible. When it comes to

keeping your fridge, dishwasher or dryer working properly, a little maintenance goes a long way. Regular cleaning, inspection and maintenance tasks can minimize wear and tear and help you avoid costly repairs or replacements. 

Door seals play an important role in keeping hot and cold air, as well as water or gas, where they belong, without leaks. They also keep outdoor pollutants from infiltrating your living or working space, which can be beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues. 

If you notice your appliance’s door seal is visibly worn, cracked or leaking, it’s time for a replacement. You can check the seal by shining a flashlight through it, or you can do a dollar bill test (stick a piece of paper between the refrigerator and the seal). If light shines through or you can pull out the paper easily, your seal needs to be replaced. 

Don’t Overload 

Appliances are a great convenience to have in your home but they also consume a lot of energy. Taking the time to properly maintain your appliances will minimize wear and tear, lower energy costs and extend their lifespan. 

Overworking your appliances, especially when full, will wear down belts and motors, causing them to break down early. Leave plenty of space for your dishwasher jet to reach plates, and don’t overload the dryer with clothes. If multiple household members use energy-draining appliances at the same time, consider placing them on separate circuits or creating an alternating schedule to prevent overworking the machines. 

Be sure to regularly inspect and clean your appliances, paying special attention to hard-to-reach areas like the inside of refrigerators and ovens. Look for frayed insulation and broken wires that can cause dangerous, tingling electrical shocks or short circuits. If you spot a problem, immediately shut off the appliance and contact a professional. This will minimize costly repairs and help avoid house fires.