Home appliances are everyday necessities, and repairs or replacements can be costly. Here are some tips to ensure your home appliances can go the distance.

Refrigerator and Freezer

Clear out your refrigerator and freezer every couple of months, wipe down all surfaces and dispose of old leftovers to keep bacteria at bay. Clean the coils with a damp cloth or a coil brush to keep your fridge cooling consistently. Don’t forget to clean behind the fridge as well to keep dust from accumulating.

Oven

Clean your oven about every three months to reduce risk of fire from grease buildup. Take advantage of your oven’s self-cleaning setting or use an oven cleaner if you have an older model. You can also make a solution of baking soda, water and vinegar. Avoid placing foil on the bottom of the oven, as this can cause heat damage.

Dishwasher

Rinse off sauces and large pieces of food before placing plates and bowls in the dishwasher to avoid clogging filters and pumps. Ensure silverware and cooking utensils are facing away from the door and seals to prevent costly repairs.

Washer and dryer 

Don’t overload your washer. Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure how much is too much. Avoid fire hazards by cleaning your dryer’s lint trap after every use and the exhaust system once a year.

Filters

Whether on a furnace, air conditioner, range or refrigerator, cleaning and replacing filters as needed will help your appliances operate more efficiently.