How to Make Appliances Last Longer

Tips for How to Maintain Your Appliances

Introduction:

Without the many different appliances we have in our homes life would be a little uncomfortable. Although there have been many improvements in home appliances it still seems as though appliances don’t last as long as they used to. Appliances that once hummed along for decades now seem to fail in less than a decade. Nearly every manufacturer offers extended warranties but statistical data indicates that the cost of the extended warranties isn’t worth the cost.

If your washing machine or dishwasher is over eight years old you can plan on having it replaced very shortly. A refrigerator may last a couple of years longer and on average a microwave will need replacing about every five or six years.

How to make appliances last longer.

Refrigerators:

Refrigerators fail as a result of doors not closing tightly which causes a strain on the motors causing it to work overtime to keep food cold. To test your door seal close the door on a piece of paper then attempt to pull the paper. If the paper slips you have a door seal problem that will require appliance maintenance.

Most refrigerators have magnetic strips embedded in the gasket around refrigerator doors that make the door close tightly. They routinely wear out and should be replaced every couple of years. A DIY homeowner can do the task for about $50.

Washing machines:

Maintain the washing machine by regularly cleaning or replacing filters that trap water sediment before it enters your machine. The filters are located in the water supply hoses attached to the machine attachment fittings. Remove the hoses to clean or replace the filters.

Clothes dryers:

Clean the lint trap prior to every use. Once a month check the drier hose and exterior vent to insure that it is free of lint and debris. Insure the hinged exterior vent pops open when the dryer runs. If it doesn’t, open the cover and scrape out the lint.

Garage doors:

Garage doors should not creak and groan when they open. Those sounds indicate that moving parts are rubbing and the motor is working harder than it should. To keep your door opening smoothly and quietly for decades lubricate the springs, hinges and rollers with light machine oil.

Toaster:

If you are into dark toasted bread you will burn out your toaster two years earlier than lightly toasted bread. Light toasted bread rather than almost burnt bread will add a few more years to your toaster life.

If you follow these tips for how to maintain your appliances you will be able to stretch their life cycle out a few years.

How to Buy the Best Dishwasher

How to Replace Washing Machine Hoses

How a Refrigerator Works

Installing a Cooking Range Vent Hood

Installing a Dehumidifier

For more DIY information Check out these Resources

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