The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Your Home Appliances

Why Proper Appliance Maintenance Matters

Your home appliances are key players in your daily life, from keeping your food fresh to making sure your clothes are clean. They need regular care to stay in great shape, like an important tool. Without proper maintenance, you might face unexpected breakdowns, higher energy bills, or the need to replace appliances sooner than you'd like.

Maintaining your appliances can:

• Extend their lifespan: A well-maintained appliance can last years longer than one that's neglected.

• Save you money: Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs or replacements.

• Improve efficiency: Appliances that are cared for run more efficiently, which can lower your energy bills.

Let’s get into some specific maintenance tips for major home appliances.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Major Home Appliances

1. How to Keep Your Refrigerator Running Efficiently

Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, and it needs regular care to keep food at the perfect temperature.

Cleaning the Coils

Refrigerator coils, usually located at the back or underneath, can gather dust and debris over time. This buildup forces the refrigerator to work harder, which not only increases energy consumption but can also shorten the appliance’s lifespan. Clean the coils every six months with a vacuum or a coil brush to keep your refrigerator running smoothly.

Checking the Door Seals

The door seals (also known as gaskets) are what keep the cold air inside the refrigerator. If they’re worn out or cracked, your fridge has to work harder to stay cold. To test the seals, close the door on a dollar bill. If you can easily pull it out, the seal isn’t tight enough, and it may be time to replace it.

Setting the Right Temperature

For optimal performance, keep your refrigerator between 37°F and 40°F and your freezer at 0°F. This not only keeps your food fresh but also ensures the appliance is operating efficiently.

Cleaning the shelves

xIf your household is prone to shelf messes, consider a refrigerator with spill-proof shelves like this GE® ENERGY STAR® French-Door Refrigerator (Model: GNE27JMMES). This model also offers advanced water filtration and LED lighting.

2. Extending the Life of Your Washing Machine

A washing machine is essential for a busy household. If it breaks down, it can really disrupt your weekly routine. Regular maintenance can prevent issues like leaks, mold, and poor washing performance.

Avoiding Overloads

It might be tempting to stuff as many clothes as possible into the washer to cut down on laundry time, but overloading can damage the drum and motor. Follow the manufacturer's load recommendations to prevent unnecessary strain on your machine.

Cleaning the Drum and Gaskets

Over time, detergent residue and water can lead to mold and mildew buildup inside the drum and on the rubber gaskets. To keep everything fresh and clean, run a cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda every few months.

Using the Right Detergent

If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washer, like this Maytag Smart Top-Load Washer (Model: MVW7230HW), use HE detergent. Regular detergent creates too many suds, which can interfere with the washing cycle and even lead to mechanical problems.

3. Keeping Your Dishwasher in Top Shape

Your dishwasher saves you time and effort but needs regular attention to work efficiently. If your dishwasher isn’t getting your dishes clean after taking these steps, consider upgrading your dishwasher. The Bosch 300 Series Dishwasher (Model: SHE53C85N) was named the best overall dishwasher for its PrecisionWash system, which intelligently scans and targets dirty spots for a thorough clean.

Cleaning the Filter

The dishwasher filter traps food particles and prevents them from clogging the drain. Over time, this filter can get clogged, reducing the dishwasher's effectiveness. Clean the filter every few months to keep your dishwasher running like new.

Checking the Spray Arms

Spray arms that are clogged or blocked can’t clean your dishes properly. Inspect the arms regularly and remove any debris that might be causing a blockage.

Running a Cleaning Cycle

Running an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar can help remove mineral deposits and buildup inside the machine. Doing this every few months will keep your dishwasher working efficiently.

4. Maintaining Your Oven and Stove for Better Cooking

A well-maintained oven and stove make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s how to keep them in peak condition.

Cleaning Spills Quickly

Spills and splatters can burn onto your oven and stove surfaces, making them difficult to clean. Wipe up spills as soon as possible to prevent them from hardening. For tougher stains, use a stove-top cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water.

If you prefer to minimize cleaning time, consider a glass cooktop for your range, like this JennAir JennAir Oblivion Glass Electric Radiant Cooktop (Model# JEC3430HB). Its smooth surface makes wiping away spills and splatters quick and easy, reducing the time spent on maintenance compared to traditional coil or gas burners.

Checking Burners and Heating Elements

Gas burners can get clogged, and electric elements can wear out over time. Regularly inspect them for any signs of damage or blockage, and clean them to ensure even heating.

Inspecting the Oven Door Seal

The seal around your oven door keeps the heat inside, so your food cooks evenly. If the seal is damaged, your oven has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature, which wastes energy. Replace worn seals to keep your oven running efficiently.

The Importance of Professional Appliance Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your appliances. Even the best appliances can underperform or suffer damage if they’re not installed correctly. That’s where professional appliance installation services come in.

Why You Need Professional Appliance Installation Services

• Expertise and Precision: Professional installers have the training and experience to install your appliances according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This means your appliances will run more efficiently and are less likely to encounter issues that could shorten their lifespan.

• Safety First: Improper installation can lead to a host of safety issues, including gas leaks, electrical problems, and water damage. Professional installation services ensure everything is set up correctly and safely, giving you peace of mind.

• Efficiency and Longevity: A well-installed appliance works as it should, which means it uses energy efficiently and is less likely to suffer from wear and tear. This not only saves you money on energy bills but also ensures your appliances last longer.

Finding the Best Appliance Installation Service Near Me

If you're searching for the best appliance installation service near you, consider factors like experience, customer satisfaction, and the range of services offered. Silica’s appliance installation services are renowned throughout Wisconsin for our attention to detail, expert knowledge, and commitment to customer satisfaction. We take the stress out of appliance installation.

Keep Your Home Running Smoothly with Silica

Proper maintenance and professional installation are key to getting the most out of your home appliances. Whether you need installation, maintenance, or just some friendly advice, Silica is here to help you keep your home in perfect working order. Trust us to take care of your appliances so you can focus on enjoying your home.

At Silica, your local appliance store located in Beaverdam, Fond du Lac, and Watertown, Wisconsin, we're not just in the business of selling appliances; we're in the business of helping you enhance your home.

We carry an extensive range of home and kitchen appliances, including the latest innovations from trusted brands like Whirlpool and Bosch. Simplify your life and shop for the best dryers, ranges, and even mattresses.

Our knowledgeable staff is also here to guide you every step of the way, helping you make informed decisions that suit your needs and budget.

Related readings from our blog:

• The Ultimate Guide to Buying a New Bed

• How To Clean a Self-Cleaning Oven In 3 Steps

• How To Clean a Top-Load Washer

FAQs: Home Appliance Maintenance & Installation

Can I install new appliances myself, or should I hire a professional?
While some appliances might seem easy to install, professional installation is recommended. It ensures the appliance is set up correctly, which can prevent safety hazards and extend the appliance’s life.

How can Silica help me with appliance maintenance in Wisconsin?
Silica offers expert maintenance services tailored to your specific needs. If you're in Wisconsin or the surrounding areas, our team can help you keep your appliances in great shape.

What is a home appliance technician?
A home appliance technician is a trained professional who specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining household appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and more. They have the expertise to diagnose issues and perform necessary repairs or installations.

How often should home appliances be replaced?
Most home appliances should be replaced every 10-15 years, depending on the type and how well they've been maintained. However, some appliances can last longer with proper care, while others may need replacement sooner if they frequently break down or become inefficient.

Should I replace a 20-year-old dishwasher?
Yes, it’s generally a good idea to replace a dishwasher that’s 20 years old. Modern dishwashers are more energy-efficient, offer better cleaning performance, and are less likely to need frequent repairs compared to older models.