If you want your appliances to continue running for years to come, it pays to give your appliances a regular tune-up. Simple things like cleaning soap scum from washing machines, cleaning the filter on a dishwasher, and cleaning dryer lint filters each cycle can increase the efficiency and lifespan of your appliances.
Save Money With An Appliance Tune-Up
When appliances need new parts, the cost can add up. Preventative services will reduce the risk of appliance failure. Simple tune-ups can help to reduce the risk of the motors working too hard and other parts to break down. Some areas to consider looking include:
- Cleaning condenser coils on a refrigerator
- Cleaning dryer screens each cycle
- Using the appropriate amounts of detergent
- Cleaning dishwasher filters
Cleaning Condenser Coils
A refrigerator needs routine maintenance to ensure it continues working properly. The refrigerator condenser coils need to be cleaned regularly to remove hair, dust, food, and other debris that can become lodged in it. Use a brush to wipe the coils and remove the excess dirt and debris. A vacuum works well to remove debris that has become lodged and clogs the airflow underneath and behind the fridge. This is best done twice a year, or more if you have shedding pets.
Clean Dryer Screens
The dryer is one of the most popular appliances in the home, and it is neglected. Your lint filter needs to be cleared before each cycle. Dryer sheets can leave a wax like film which can dramatically reduce air flow. Dryer sheets are fine to use but can leave a buildup over time. To clean them use hot soapy water and a brush at least twice a year to clean the screen as it is easy for the dryer screen to become clogged. When air can’t flow your dryer will need to work harder to dry the clothes and can lead to overheating of the motor and additional drying cycles. Overheating will shorten then life of many parts and components. Remember a dryer doesn’t dry the clothing. It condenses moisture and pushes it out the vent. Once the moisture has been removed the clothing is dry. Take care of your dryer, so it can take care of you.
Watch the Detergent!
A common issue we see with washing machines is homeowners overloading them or adding too much detergent. There is a perfect balance to the way a washing machine works and when you load too many clothes into it, the machine cannot effectively clean. The other issue happens when people add too much detergent. Excess detergent can end up sticking to the tub and cause the unit to stink. because it cannot wash out of the water basin. Avoid overloads and too much detergent to reduce the risk of damage to the motors, belts, and other parts that keep the machine working.
Clean the Dishwasher Filter
The dishwasher filter is one area a lot of people neglect. You need to clean this filter to prevent solid items from getting into to pump. The filter is normally easy to reach and located on the bottom inside the tub. You simply slip it out, scrub it with a brush, and place it back in. If you do notice that you continue having soap build-up, white film or poor results, call iFiX to ease your pains.
Improve Appliance Efficiency
Taking the time to perform some basic maintenance allows the appliances to function in the right manner. When appliance parts are failing it can cause more strain on the other parts. What was one simple fix can now turn into a much larger issue. Appliances that need to work harder can use more energy and take additional cycles.
Regular appliance maintenance will go a long way to prevent damage and higher repair costs. Quite often it’s the small things with appliances that can make a difference. Appliances are here to make our lives easier! If you need appliance repair, contact iFiX today to schedule an appointment.
