We’ve long left the era when humans aren’t dependent on appliances to live comfortably. Now that they’ve turned into basic necessities, we can’t afford to have them break down, or else, our daily lives will be affected negatively. We don’t have much means of preserving food without our refrigerators, don’t we?
The same can be said to our HVAC unit, furnaces, and washers and dryers. We depend so much on them that we tend to panic when one of them suddenly malfunctions. How can we survive the winter without a heating appliance? What about fresh new clothes for work the next day?
That said, maintenance is highly important for our appliances. Even if you own top-of-the-line units, you cannot take them granted. Here are the most sensitive home appliances that require regular maintenance.
1. Washer and Dryer
Washer and dryers typically last more than a decade, but with proper maintenance, its useful life can be extended. If you use yours frequently, then you should exercise more discipline in maintaining it.
Lint should be removed from the dryer lint catcher after every use. At least every three months, wash the lint catcher using detergent to maintain proper airflow. Its ducts should also be professionally cleaned once a year, as well as its vents. Hire professionals who specialize in dryer vent cleaning in Concord, New Hampshire or surrounding areas.
After unloading your washer, let the interiors dry by wiping off the leftover moisture and leaving the door ajar. Once a month, run it in a self-cleaning cycle with bleach or tub-cleaner. Clean the drain pump filter and detergent dispenser regularly. Follow all instructions in the user’s manual to be certain that you’re not mishandling your unit.
2. Refrigerator
Refrigerators are expensive, and they usually need repairs after 5 years of use. To avoid costly damages and repairs, start by ensuring that they’re always properly closed. Check the door seals for any food residue that may affect the seal’s tightness. Periodically clean the coils, which are found at the fridge’s backside, using a vacuum cleaner (unplug your unit before doing this.).
Set the temperatures at the right levels, preferably 37º-40º F in the fridge, and 0º in the freezer. Don’t leave your refrigerator unfilled; the food items you store there help regulate its temperature, not to mention it would be a waste of energy to leave it barely filled.
3. Water Heater
Water heaters are also long-lasting, but sediment builds up inside after many years of use. Get rid of them by draining the tank yearly. Disable the cold water supply and attach a hose to the drain valve. Let the water run, catching them with a bucket, and wait for the murky waters to be clear. If they remain murky, open the water supply valve and loosen the clinging sediment, then drain the water again. This should remove all sediment and debris, making your unit good as new again.
4. HVAC System
This highly essential appliance typically last for 15 to 20 years. Regularly replace its air filters every three months to avoid clogs. Remove any debris that may lie on its compressor, especially during spring, summer, and fall. Disable the water supply in the furnace humidifier every summer, and in the fall, set the humidistat to healthy levels, and replace the humidifier wick. Avail professional servicing yearly as well.
5. Dishwasher
Dishwashers need to be cleaned once every few months. Before starting, remove all the racks first, unplug the unit, and clear the drain of any food residue and debris. If there are clogs in the sprayers, remove them using a toothpick. Inspect the racks’ condition to determine if they need a touch-up or replacement. Finally, to remove dried soap, run vinegar through the cycle or use an unsweetened lemon-flavored drink, instead.
Be sure to follow all these maintenance tips to maximize the useful life of your essential appliances. If you notice any unusual activity, have them inspected and repaired by a professional immediately.
