The art of making your appliances last longer. Simple tips for everyday care
When it comes to our home appliances, a little maintenance goes a long way. Keeping up with small, regular care tasks can make all the difference in extending the life of your appliances, saving you from the expense and inconvenience of unexpected repairs. At Star Appliance Repair, we’ve helped countless customers learn how to get the most out of their appliances. Here are some of our top tips to keep them running like new.
1. The refrigerator. Keep it cool and clean
Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, running 24/7 to keep food fresh. However, it’s also prone to accumulating dust, dirt, and food particles that can affect its efficiency and lifespan.
– Clean the condenser coils. Located at the back or bottom of the fridge, condenser coils can get clogged with dust, causing the fridge to work harder than necessary. Unplug the fridge and gently vacuum or brush off these coils every six months.
– Check door seals. Make sure the fridge doors seal tightly when closed. Weak seals let cold air escape, which can lead to higher energy bills. You can check by closing the door on a piece of paper; if it easily slips out, the seal might need replacing.
– Organize regularly. Keeping the fridge organized reduces the amount of time the door stays open. Try to put commonly used items at eye level so they’re easy to grab and avoid blocking air vents inside the fridge for optimal airflow.
2. Dishwasher. Tips for better performance and a longer life
A dishwasher can save time and water, but if it’s not performing well, it can leave dishes spotty or coated in residue. A little regular care can keep it working at its best.
– Run vinegar through a cycle. Running an empty load with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack helps remove hard water deposits and freshens the interior. Do this every month for best results.
– Clean the filter. The filter, usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, collects food particles and can become clogged over time. Remove it once a month and rinse it with warm water to keep things flowing smoothly.
– Inspect spray arms. The small holes in the spray arms can get clogged with food bits. Remove the arms (consult the manual for help) and rinse them thoroughly. A toothpick can help clear out stubborn particles.
3. Dryer. Lint removal and airflow are key
Dryers are convenient but can become a fire hazard if not properly maintained. One of the best ways to keep your dryer efficient and safe is by maintaining clear airflow.
– Clean the lint trap after each load. This simple habit helps improve drying efficiency and reduces the risk of overheating. A clogged lint trap can make the dryer work harder, raising energy costs.
– Check the exhaust vent. Lint can build up in the vent hose, creating a fire risk. Detach the vent from the back of the dryer every six months and use a vent brush to clear out any lint. Many hardware stores carry vent cleaning kits if you’d like to do this yourself.
– Avoid overloading. Overloading the dryer not only prevents clothes from drying properly but also puts a strain on the drum and motor. Sticking to recommended load sizes can extend the life of your dryer.
If you notice any issues with your appliances during this time, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Star Appliance Repair. We’re here to help you keep everything in working order!
You can call us at (647)-847-8774 to book an appointment.
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