Appliance Care: Simple Ways to Extend the Life of Your Home Appliances
Every appliance in your house works harder than you think. A little routine care can stop a small problem becoming a big, expensive repair. Below you’ll find easy steps you can start today, no special tools required.
Everyday Maintenance for Kitchen Gear
Start with the oven. Wipe spills while they’re still warm; burnt food can bake onto the interior and weaken heating elements. Check the door seal every few months – a cracked gasket lets heat escape and makes the oven work harder.
Fridges and freezers love a clean coil. Pull them out, vacuum the back or underneath, and clear the dust. A free coil forces the compressor to run longer, which wears it out faster. Also, defrost the freezer when ice gets over a half‑inch thick to keep it efficient.
Glass hobs look fragile, but a gentle razor blade scraper removes chips without damaging the surface. After each cleaning, polish with a non‑abrasive cleaner to keep the surface smooth and prevent scratches that trap food.
Looking After Heating and Ventilation
Boilers need a yearly check‑up. Flush the system to remove sludge, and listen for odd noises that signal a loose part. If you hear a gurgle or see water leaking, call a pro before it turns into a cold house.
Extractor fans keep the kitchen and bathroom dry. Every six months, remove the cover, clean the blades and wipe the motor housing. A clean fan blows better, reduces mold risk and lasts longer.
Heat pumps should have their filters inspected monthly. A clogged filter reduces airflow, making the pump work harder and raising energy bills. Simple vacuuming can keep it humming efficiently.
Dishwashers get the most use, so run a cleaning cycle with a cup of white vinegar once a month. This clears mineral build‑up and keeps spray arms clear, which stops water from pooling at the bottom.
Washing machines love balanced loads. Overloading or putting one heavy item with many light ones can damage the drum bearings. Follow the manufacturer’s load guide and rotate the drum occasionally to keep it smooth.
Water heaters are easy to ignore until they stop delivering hot water. Drain and flush them twice a year to remove sediment that eats away at the tank. Check the pressure‑relief valve for leaks – a small drip can become a big problem.
Good care isn’t about spending hours on each appliance. A few minutes each month, plus a yearly professional check for the big ones, can save you dozens of pounds in repair bills and keep your home comfortable all year.
