Can you imagine life without household appliances? If you’ve ever had a major appliance break down you have an idea of the inconvenience and cost involved. The key to properly functioning appliances is keeping them clean and well-maintained. Follow these preventative maintenance tips and you’ll increase the lifespan of your appliances and save money over time.

Ovens and Microwaves

Spilled food can keep the burners on an electric stove from coming on. Avoid this problem by wiping up spills and cleaning the stove top often. Use removable burner plates to make the job easier. If you don’t have a self-cleaning oven, baking soda and vinegar is a safe, all-natural alternative.

Make your microwave easier to clean by heating a bowl of water for a few minutes. The steam from the water will loosen stuck-on food particles. Only use heat-safe dishes in your microwave and oven.

Refrigerators

Keep your fridge in good running condition by cleaning it regularly including underneath and behind it. Clean the door gasket with warm water and a sponge to keep it from sticking. Locate the coils on your fridge and vacuum them regularly. The coils will be on the back of the fridge or underneath the front grill.

Dishwashers

Dishwashers clean dishes from food residue that is filtered out by either a filter system or a chopper system. Each type should be cleaned regularly to prevent food buildup. If you can’t locate the filter, refer to your owner’s manual. Avoid overloading your dishwasher. Packing it too tightly can overwork it and wear it out prematurely.

Mineral deposits from hard water can clog water jets. Consider adding a water softener to your water filter system. Another option is to use a dishwasher cleaner designed to remove mineral deposits regularly.

Clothes Washers and Dryers

Periodically wash your clothes washer by running an empty cycle with baking soda and vinegar in the detergent dispenser. Use a sponge to clean the dispenser, gasket, door, and drum. Open the lid and let it air dry.

The first rule of taking care of your clothes dryer is to ensure it’s level. If it’s tilted and knocking, the drum will wear out too quickly. It’s also critical to clean your dryer’s exhaust vent at least once a year.

Never overload washers and dryers.

AC Window Units

AC window units for the season stored in basements or garages will likely be full of dust, dead bugs, and rodent droppings. Vacuum the exterior including the fins. Remove the front panel and vacuum the foam filter.

Garbage Disposals

A garbage disposal is a hard-working appliance with unseen parts underneath the splash guard. Keep your disposal in good working order with regular cleaning. Every few days, fill the disposal with ice cubes and turn it on. Add citrus peel to keep it smelling fresh.

When to Call the Pros

At some point, even well-maintained appliances will need repairing. You can depend on professionals like the ones at Alliance Appliance Services to troubleshoot and repair all of your home appliances.

Consistent maintenance and cleaning by using the tips above will increase the efficiency and longevity of your appliances.