Cleaning Your Home Appliances Can Help Prevent Repairs

Keeping the appliances in your home clean can help prevent problems and the need for repairs. Although there are many appliance components that you cannot see, taking some simple steps can help protect them. Here are some tips for cleaning your dishwasher, refrigerator, stove/oven, and clothes dryer.

Cleaning your dishwasher

Washing your dishes before you put them in the dishwasher, or at least rinsing them, can help prevent build-up on the components. You can clean the dishwasher itself every few months by running a cleaner in an empty load. This gets rid of any calcium build-up and keeps the sprayer clear of debris. Some dishwashing machines have a filter screen that stops food particles form forming a sludge that can stop the water flowing. Be sure to clean this as well.

Cleaning your refrigerator

To keep your refrigerator clean, you can start by taking care of the coils. These parts collect dust, hair, grease, and other debris, which can reduce the efficiency of the appliance and cause it to overheat. To clean the coils, take the grill on the back or bottom of the fridge off. Use a vacuum hose with a brush to clean the coils. Do this often to keep your fridge running smoothly.

The door gasket (the rubbery piece along the door) also requires cleaning. If the gasket is too dirty, it can create air leaks and cause your refrigerator to run longer. If it gets sticky, it can attach to the fridge and tear off when you open the door. To clean this part of your fridge, dampen a cloth with warm water and wipe it down regularly.

Cleaning the stove/oven

Although this is not a way to clean the oven, do not place foil in the bottom of the appliance. Doing this may appear to be a good trick for keeping it clean, but the foil will block air flow and mess with the heating element. This could result in a malfunction or the need for recalibration. The best way to keep the oven clean is to simply wash it down regularly.

When cleaning the knobs and controls, be sure to spray the cloth you are using instead of the stove itself. This will prevent liquid from getting into the control panel and breaking this appliance.

Cleaning the clothes dryer

Along with wiping down the outside of your dryer, you should be sure to keep the inside clear of lint and other debris. If the lint filter is clogged, your clothes will dry slowly and you could make the thermal fuse to blow due to overworking the components. Appliance repairs can be inconvenient, but your dryer can actually start a fire if it is too clogged. Clean the lint out regularly to prevent this from happening.

Take care of your home appliances with Allen’s Tri-State

Cleaning your appliances is important, but you should also keep up with regular inspections and maintenance. Allen’s Tri-State in Amarillo, Texas can inspect, maintain, and repair your household appliances. Give us a call at (806) 376-8345 or Send Us an Email to learn more about our Residential Appliance Services.