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6 MONTH GUARANTEE ON ALL REPAIRS

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How to Maintain and Extend the Life of Your Appliances

Appliances don’t ask for much, but a little routine care goes a long way. Whether it’s your fridge humming along in the kitchen or your dryer handling endless laundry cycles, regular maintenance keeps things working like they should. It’s not just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about helping your appliances last longer, work better, and save you from costly repairs or early replacements.

Want to get more mileage out of your home’s hardest-working machines? Here are some straightforward tips to keep them performing at their best.

Washing Machine Maintenance

Replace Washing Machine Hoses

For added safety, replace your washing machine hoses with blow-proof ones. Clean and lubricate the shut-off valves every spring, as dirt buildup can restrict movement. Turn the valves occasionally throughout the year to prevent them from seizing.

Draining and Connecting Hoses

When replacing hoses, drain the old hoses to avoid spills. Make sure each hose connects from the correct temperature valve to the matching intake nozzle on the machine. After connecting, turn on the water and check for leaks.

Leveling the Washing Machine

To level the washing machine (and dryer), adjust the feet as needed. Once level, double-check for leaks to ensure proper connection.

Dryer Maintenance

Check and Adjust the Dryer Vent

Position the vent with a direct path to the outside, leaving a bit of slack to avoid strain. Cut excess hose length, then vacuum the hose, machine vent, and outdoor vent before reattaching.

Vacuum the Lint Screen Receptacle

Controlling lint buildup is essential for both cleanliness and safety. Clean the lint screen after every cycle and have the dryer professionally cleaned every five years to prevent fires.

Dryer Maintenance Tips

Dishwasher Maintenance

Set Up Correctly

Professional dishwasher installation is essential for optimal dishwasher performance and longevity. Ensuring that your dishwasher is installed correctly prevents leaks, maximizes efficiency, and reduces the risk of long-term issues.

Wash Regularly

Running your dishwasher frequently prevents debris from settling at the bottom, reducing the need for deep cleans.

Run a Full Cycle and Empty It

Running a full cycle before maintenance allows for easy access to all parts.

Inspect and Clean the Spray Arms

If spray arms aren’t spinning properly or holes are clogged, they can’t thoroughly clean dishes. Clear buildup in spray arm holes with a toothpick or small wire.

Clean the Edges and Exterior

Odors often come from areas outside the wash cycle. Clean door edges, buttons, and the exterior with a damp cloth and household cleaner.

How to Maintain Your Appliances

Refrigerator Maintenance

Check the Door Seals

The seals on your fridge and freezer doors keep cold air in. Clean seals with a baking soda and water solution and rub with petroleum jelly to prolong their life. If seals are cracked, replace them. Test with a dollar bill: if it slips out easily, the seals need replacement.

Change the Water Filter

If your fridge has a water filter, replace it every six months to avoid dirty water passing through the filter.

Clean the Interior

Empty and wipe down the inside, including shelves and drawers, with a vinegar solution to prevent mildew.

Ice Machine Maintenance

Understand Scale and Algae Build-Up

As ice forms, minerals separate from water, creating scale buildup. This scale can be lime, calcium (off-white), or iron (rusty red). Algae growth may also occur due to airborne bacteria.

Remove Scale Buildup

Scale buildup affects ice production and quality. Clean with a mild phosphoric acid solution per the manual’s instructions. For plated evaporators, use a nickel-safe cleaner.

Sanitize the Ice Machine

After cleaning, sanitize the unit with a commercial ice machine sanitizer or a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution. Rinse thoroughly to ensure clean ice.

Oven Maintenance

Regular Wipe-Downs

Incorporate the exterior of your oven into your regular cleaning routine to keep it looking new.

Use Baking Trays to Catch Spills

Place a baking tray at the bottom of the oven to catch spills before they hit the oven floor.

Loosen Grease with Steam

Place a bowl of hot water in the oven for 20 minutes at high temperature to loosen dirt for easier cleaning.

Oven Maintenance Tip

Microwave Maintenance

Keep the Inside Clean

Wipe out the inside regularly to prevent odors and stains. Clean spills immediately and wipe down with mild detergent weekly or monthly, depending on usage.

Use Microwave-Safe Containers

Only use containers labeled as microwave-safe to avoid melting or toxic particles in food.

Cooktop Maintenance

Prepare and Wipe Down

Ensure the stove is cool before cleaning. Wipe down with a sponge and warm, soapy water.

Apply Cooktop Cleaner

Liberally apply cooktop cleaner, scrubbing in circular motions. Focus on areas with grease buildup.

Scrape Tough Grease

Gently scrape rough areas with a scraper, then buff the surface until shiny.

Need Reliable Appliance Repairs in Austin, TX?

Whenever you have appliance troubles in Austin or nearby areas, reach out to Travis County Appliance Repair. Our skilled technicians handle a wide range of home appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and more.

We are dedicated to providing fast and dependable service with high-quality repairs to keep your household running without a hitch. Contact us today for expertise and service you can count on!

Frequently Asked Question

Twice a year to maintain efficiency.

37°F to 40°F for the fridge, and 0°F for the freezer.

Every six months, or as directed in the owner’s manual.

Clean the detergent and fabric softener drawers regularly and inspect hoses for wear.

Remove burners and use a pipe cleaner to clear ports. Tap gently to remove debris.

Adjust the feet to level it to ensure stable operation.

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