Tips for Smooth Operations & Fewer Headaches!

1. Rotate Your Refrigerator Stock

Sure, you clean your fridge occasionally, but do you ever rotate its contents? Keeping older items at the front ensures they’re used first, reducing food waste and preventing those mysterious science experiments at the back.

Pro Tip:

Check the seals on your fridge door regularly. A loose or worn-out seal can cause cool air to escape, forcing your fridge to work harder. Place a dollar bill between the door and seal—if it slides out easily, it’s time to replace the seal! Give us a call!

2. Use Ice to Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals can get smelly over time. One of the best (and least known) ways to clean and sharpen the blades is by tossing in a handful of ice cubes.

How:

    •    Throw in ice cubes and run the disposal with cold water.

    •    Add a slice of lemon or orange for a fresh scent!

3. Don’t Forget to Clean the Dishwasher Gasket

While cleaning the filter and spray arms is common advice, many people overlook the gasket (that rubber seal around the door). Grease and grime accumulate there, affecting the seal’s efficiency.

Quick Tip:

Wipe the gasket with a damp cloth and mild soap every month to keep it clean and flexible.

4. Run Empty Loads with Cleaner

For appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and even ovens with self-cleaning functions, it’s a good idea to occasionally run an empty cycle with a cleaning agent. This removes hidden grime, detergent buildup, and odors.

    •    For washing machines: Use a washing machine cleaner or a mix of white vinegar and baking soda.

    •    For dishwashers: As mentioned earlier, vinegar and baking soda do wonders.

    •    For ovens: Use the self-cleaning feature, but make sure the kitchen is ventilated!

5. Keep Your Oven Light Clean

A dirty oven light can make it hard to see what’s happening inside (hello, overcooked lasagna). Regularly clean the glass cover on the oven light with warm soapy water to keep it clear and bright.

6. Use the Right Cookware on Your Stovetop

Using the wrong type of cookware on your stove can affect its efficiency and lifespan. For example:

    •    Gas stoves: Use flat-bottomed, sturdy cookware for even heat distribution.

    •    Glass cooktops: Avoid dragging heavy pots across the surface to prevent scratches.

    •    Induction stoves: Only use magnetic cookware, as non-magnetic pots won’t heat up!

7. Keep Your Range Hood Filters Clean

Greasy range hood filters reduce air circulation and can become a fire hazard. Most people forget these filters even exist!

How:

    •    Remove the filters and soak them in hot, soapy water.

    •    Scrub gently with a brush and let them dry completely before reinstalling.

    •    Do this every 2-3 months, or more often if you cook frequently.

8. Avoid Slamming Appliance Doors

Whether it’s your washing machine, dishwasher, or microwave, slamming doors can damage the hinges and seals over time. Close doors gently to prolong the life of your appliances.

9. Level Your Washing Machine

A washing machine that isn’t level can cause excessive vibration, wear out internal parts faster, and create a racket that rivals a construction site.

How to Check:

    •    Place a level on top of the machine.

    •    Adjust the feet until it’s perfectly balanced.

    •    This not only protects the machine but also keeps your laundry area quieter.

10. Vacuum Behind and Under Appliances

Dust, pet hair, and debris accumulate behind and under large appliances like fridges and washing machines, affecting their efficiency and potentially creating a fire risk.

How:

    •    Unplug the appliance before moving it.

    •    Use a vacuum with a crevice attachment to clean underneath and behind.

    •    Aim to do this at least twice a year.

Bonus Tip: Get Smart with Appliance Use

If you have a smart home setup, consider adding smart plugs or using smart appliance features to control energy usage. Many modern appliances can send you alerts when maintenance is needed or when cycles are complete, helping you stay on top of things without extra effort.

With these unique tips, your appliances will run more smoothly, last longer, and (hopefully) give you fewer repair headaches. Plus, you’ll feel like a true home-maintenance pro!