Appliances can be a major expense for a home, so you want to keep them running for as long as possible. Here are a few simple measures you can take to save you big bucks in the long run.
Refrigerators
Your refrigerator will stay colder, run better and last longer if the cold air can circulate easily. So don’t overstuff it with food.
Check to see if the doors seal properly and keep the chill in by closing the door on a slip of paper and tugging on it. If it slides out, it’s time to replace the gasket so that your fridge doesn’t work as hard.
Compressor coils clogged with dust can’t release heat efficiently and make the fridge work harder, wearing it down. Cleaning the coil with a brush and vacuum once each year will add years to the life of your refrigerator.
Dishwashers
Your dishwasher will last longer if you clean the gasket routinely with soap and water, and take the time to remove food debris regularly from the filter.
Much of the energy used by your dishwasher goes toward heating the water. So before you do a load, run the water at the sink until it gets hot. That saves the dishwasher work, and it will last longer.
Ovens
You can keep your oven range working its best by keeping the burner ports clear using a pipe cleaner or paper clip.
Washers and dryers
Don’t overwork your dryer. Clean the lint filter before every use. Use the Auto Dry Dry setting, which will help save energy and wear and tear on your clothes. Also, clear the vent annually to help the dryer run efficiently and help prevent a fire hazard.
Overstuffing your washing machine strains the motor, transmission, and other parts. You can fill it, but loosely. Your laundry will come out cleaner and your machine will last longer.
Vacuum cleaners
As for your vacuum cleaner, change the bag frequently and keep the filters clean.
Check the brush rolls before you start to vacuum to remove pet hair or long fibers. If you have a retractable cord, don’t let it reel in too fast. That will keep the plug from breaking off.
