Keep Appliances Running Smoothly with These Usage Tips

As we learned in our previous blog your appliances are essential parts of your home and require upkeep as well basic checks to see how they are running. Home appliances generally come with an owner's manual the size of a small novel, so it's no surprise that people often ignore the recommended usage instructions. Instead, you and your appliance develop a particular rhythm which seems to work just fine for both parties. Unfortunately, while there might not be any outward signs of strain on the gadget, improper usage can result in a shortened life span for your little helper! During this pandemic you might need to pay extra attention to your appliances as increased usage has been common this past year as we stay home more and more. Here are some maintenance tips that can help keep four of a house's most important appliances in tip-top shape.

The Washer

When it comes to the washing machine, there is one common mistake that users consistently make: they overload it. Sure, it seems reasonable that the entire space inside the drum can be filled with dirty laundry, but the reality is that most washers are only designed to operate at about two-thirds full. By filling the machine all the way to the top, you aren't leaving enough room for detergent and water to properly circulate around the clothing. This results in extra strain on the appliance and poor cleaning. Even worse, many users pack clothes down to make everything fit, which only compounds the issues above.

The Dryer

You can't mention the washer without also talking about its partner, the dryer! For dryers, maintenance is all about removing lint. This starts with always cleaning the lint filter after every load, but also includes regular (about once a year) cleaning of the vent in the back of the machine. Failure to keep the dryer free of lint build-up will not only shorten the lifespan of the appliance, but also create a major home fire hazard.

The Fridge

Considering that refrigerators have to run almost constantly, they require remarkably little care. In fact, beyond simple interior cleaning, there is only one other important maintenance task to perform: cleaning the condenser coils. Over time, these coils become covered in dust and grime, which makes your fridge work harder to keep food chilled. These coils are located on the back or bottom of the unit and only require a simple wipe-down every 6-12 months.

The Dishwasher

Your dishwasher might do most of the work, but that doesn't mean that you can completely ignore dirty dishes. Before placing them into the machine, give dishes at least a cursory rinse to remove large food particles. Over time, these can clog the machine, impairing its efficiency and allowing bacterial growth. You should also occasionally run an empty cleaning cycle with cleaning solution to keep the machine free of mineral deposits. Finally, if your unit has a filter, remember to clean it regularly.

Read more about appliance maintenance at Realtor.com!