Your home relies on multiple appliances to keep your household comfortable and efficient, from cooling air conditioning to automatic dish washers. These appliances do require periodic maintenance to avoid breakdowns and costly repairs, however. Simple troubleshooting and cleaning techniques are all you need for some of the top home appliances.
Air Conditioners
Whether the air conditioner is a small room model or a central system, you need to replace or rinse the filter each month. While you’re near the unit, use your observational powers to locate any liquid leaks. Refrigerant runs through these appliances to cool your home’s air. Contact an HVAC professional if any leaks or unusual problems occur.
Garbage Disposals
Listen to your disposal every time you use it. If any grinding sounds occur, the blades may need to be cleared of obstructions, such as a seed or utensil. Clean the disposal using vinegar and lemon mixed into ice cube form. Along with a fresh scent, you’ll clean out old food particles at the same time.
Hot Water Heaters
Inspect your tank’s exterior for any corrosion, including a test of the pressure relief valves. Water heaters with excessive corrosion are prone to cracking, allowing water to flood the immediate area. If you need to replace the unit, a tankless model affords you more space and consumes less energy.
Smoke Detectors
One of the simplest maintenance processes concerns smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Once a month, test all detectors by pressing the “Test” button. If the unit indicates a low battery, replace it immediately. A muted beeping sound often indicates a low battery in some models, for example.
Refrigerators
Pull your refrigerator out from the wall. Wipe the coils clean in the back, along with under the appliance. Clean out the refrigerator of all food, selecting expired items for the trash. If you have an ice machine, test its operation for both water and ice. Replace or rinse the filter, as necessary.
Dishwashers
Inspect under and around your dishwasher. Any leaks need to be addressed immediately. Open the appliance and scrub water mineral buildup away with a vinegar spray. Run the appliance and listen to its operation. Any unusual sounds should prompt you to check other moving parts, including the spinning arm.
Range Hoods
Remove the filters from above your stove range. Fill the sink with soap and hot water. Soak the filters until all the grease is easily scrubbed off. Inspect the inside of the hood while the filters are off to remove any debris that has lodged in the area.
Washers And Dryers
Pull the vents from the dryer and clean all lint away. Tighten any loose screws in the dryer drum. Wipe the washer drum down with a vinegar solution to remove water mineral buildup. Clean the exterior of both appliances. Inspect hoses and wiring behind the washer and dryer. Any pinched, cracked or broken lines need immediate replacement.
Take some time out of your monthly schedule to check all of these key areas for long-lasting appliances, as keeping your appliances in top shape only increases their efficiency. However, should your appliances or home systems ever break down, be sure you’re protected with a home warranty from American Home Shield. Learn more about American Home Shield home protection plans.
Post Author: andyc.
