If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about home appliance maintenance until something goes wrong. And by then, it’s often too late. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common home appliance maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them.
One of the most important reasons to maintain your home appliances is to prevent costly repairs. If you don’t keep up with regular maintenance, small problems can quickly turn into big ones. Not to mention, well-maintained appliances tend to last longer, so you’ll save money in the long run.
Mistake 1: Not cleaning your air conditioner filters
One of the most common home appliance maintenance mistakes is not cleaning air conditioner filters. Dirty filters can reduce airflow and cause the air conditioner to work harder, which can lead to a shorter life span and increased energy costs.
To clean the filters, remove them from the unit and gently tap them against a hard surface to dislodge the dirt. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment to clean them. Be sure to replace the filters as recommended by the manufacturer. However, if your AC stops functioning, it’s probably time to call an AC repair service provider.
Mistake 2: Not cleaning the oven stovetop
Another common mistake is not cleaning the oven stovetop. Grease and food spills can cause a nasty build-up that’s not only difficult to clean, but can also be a fire hazard. To clean the stovetop, remove all of the burner grates and drip pans and scrub them with hot, soapy water. Then, use a putty knife to scrape away any stubborn grease and food. Be sure to clean under the grates as well.
Mistake 3: Not defrosting the freezer
If you have a chest or upright freezer, it’s important to defrost it regularly to prevent ice build-up. Ice build-up not only makes it difficult to access your food, but can also cause the freezer to work harder and use more energy. To defrost the freezer, unplug it and leave the door open. Place a few bowls of hot water inside to help speed up the process. Once the ice has melted, wipe down the freezer with a damp cloth.
Mistake 4: Not cleaning the refrigerator
Refrigerators also need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Food spills and bacteria can build up and cause odors. To clean the refrigerator, unplug it and remove all of the food. Wipe down the inside with a hot, soapy cloth. Be sure to clean the condenser coils on the back of the refrigerator. You can do this by removing the grill at the bottom and vacuuming them off.
Mistake 5: Not checking the water hose
The water hose is often overlooked when it comes to home appliance maintenance, but it’s an important part of your dishwasher and washing machine. If the water hose isn’t securely attached, it can cause water leaks and flooding. To check the water hose, unplug the washer or dishwasher and disconnect the hose. Check for any leaks and tighten the connection if necessary.
Mistake 6: Not draining the water heater
Water heaters need to be drained on a regular basis to prevent sediment from building up. This can cause the water heater to work harder and use more energy. To drain the water heater, turn off the power supply and open the drain valve at the bottom of the unit. Let the water drain until it’s clear. Then, close the valve and turn on the power supply.
Mistake 7: Not cleaning the dryer lint screen
Another home appliance maintenance mistake is not cleaning the dryer lint screen. A build-up of lint can cause the dryer to overheat and catch on fire. To clean the screen, remove it from the dryer and scrub it with a brush. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Be sure to replace the screen as recommended by the manufacturer.
Mistake 8: Not checking the cords
It’s important to check the cords on your appliances regularly for signs of wear and tear. Damaged cords can be a fire hazard. To check the cords, unplug the appliance and examine the cord for any damage. If there is damage, replace the cord immediately.
Mistake 9: Not using surge protectors
Many people don’t realize that surge protectors are an important part of home appliance maintenance. Surge protectors protect your appliances from damage caused by power surges. To ensure your appliances are protected, be sure to use surge protectors with all of your electronics.
Mistake 10: Not reading the manual
The final mistake people make when it comes to home appliance maintenance is not reading the manual. Each appliance is different and has specific maintenance requirements. Be sure to read the manual for your particular appliance. This will help you avoid making any mistakes that could damage the appliance.
Home appliance maintenance is important to extend the life of your appliances and prevent any accidents or damages. Be sure to avoid these 10 common mistakes to keep your home safe and your appliances working properly.
