Your home and everything in it is a major investment, which is why you need to take care of it. Appliances usually have a limited lifespan—you are lucky if you are able to keep it in good condition for five years at most. With regular maintenance, however, you can extend the number of years you will be able to use them.
The most common appliances that need regular maintenance include your washing machine, your oven, and your air conditioning. Here are helpful tips to ensure they are at their optimal condition years after you purchase them.
Air Conditioner Maintenance
Clean the air filters to improve the efficacy of your air conditioning unit, making sure to replace them if necessary, usually after a month for one-inch pleated filters. Choosing the right filter can be tricky, so make sure to consult with your dealer about the right type based on your system. You need to pay close attention to filters, especially if you constantly use your AC, if your home gathers a lot of dust, or if you have pets in your home.
It is also important to clean the coils and the evaporator as they collect dirt over time, reducing the airflow, and insulating the coil, thus reducing its ability to absorb heat. Keep in mind that outdoor condenser coils can get very dirty if it is exposed to dust or if there are plants nearby.
Lastly, it is important that you remove debris from the outside of your air conditioning unit, as these decrease system capacity and reduce airflow.
Washing Machine Maintenance Tips
It is important to check your hoses regularly for any bulges, cracks, frays, and leaks around the ends, making sure to replace the hose if necessary. A good rule of thumb is to replace the hose every three to five years.
Make sure your washing machine is at least four inches away from the wall to prevent kinking. You also need to make sure the machine is level, as one that is off-kilter is prone to vibration, rocking or moving across the floor during the spin cycle, which can be dangerous both to the machine and your floor. Turn the legs clockwise to lower it and counterclockwise to raise it.
It is also important that you check your dryer vents for any damage and keep in mind that it needs regular cleaning. You can check with your dealer or other local companies offering dryer vent cleaning services to spare yourself the hassle.
Oven Maintenance Tips
Make an effort to clean your oven at least twice a year. You can also take advantage of your oven’s self-cleaning feature, which should be safe as long as you carefully follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure to be at home during the process, and open the windows because it can get very hot. Letting the oven cool for at least six hours before wiping it down is essential after the self-cleaning cycle.
Each appliance in your home requires different maintenance tasks. It’s essential to learn the right way to maintain them to prevent unwanted breakdowns and extend their lifespan to make the most of your money’s worth.
