Your appliances are some of the hardest-working members of your household. A little preventive care can add years to their life and save you hundreds—sometimes thousands—in premature replacements. Here are seven maintenance habits that actually make a difference.
1. Clean Your Refrigerator Coils
Those dusty coils on the back or bottom of your fridge force the compressor to work harder, shortening its life and increasing energy bills. Clean them every 6–12 months with a coil brush or vacuum attachment.
Pro tip: If you have pets, clean coils every 3–4 months—pet hair accumulates fast.
2. Clean the Dryer Lint Trap and Vent
Everyone knows to clean the lint trap after each load, but the exhaust vent also needs attention. A clogged vent makes your dryer work harder, increases drying time, and is a serious fire hazard. Clean the vent annually.
Warning sign: If clothes take more than one cycle to dry, your vent likely needs cleaning.
3. Do Not Overload Your Washing Machine
Stuffing too many clothes in stresses the motor, transmission, and bearings. It also means clothes do not get properly cleaned. Follow the manufacturer is guidelines and resist the urge to cram in "just one more thing."
Good rule: Leave about 6 inches of space at the top of the drum for proper agitation.
4. Run Your Dishwasher Hot and Clean the Filter
Run hot water at your kitchen sink before starting the dishwasher so it begins with hot water. Also, clean the filter monthly—a clogged filter means poor cleaning and extra strain on the pump.
Monthly maintenance: Run an empty cycle with white vinegar to remove buildup and odors.
5. Keep Your Oven Clean
Built-up grease and food debris make your oven work harder and can affect temperature accuracy. Wipe up spills promptly and do a deeper clean every few months. If using self-clean, do not overdo it—once or twice a year is plenty.
Caution: Excessive use of self-clean mode can actually damage oven components due to extreme heat.
6. Replace Water Filters on Schedule
If your refrigerator has a water/ice dispenser, change the filter every 6 months (or as recommended). A clogged filter reduces water flow and makes the system work harder. Same goes for dishwasher filters if your model has one.
7. Level Your Appliances Properly
Washers, dryers, and refrigerators need to be level to work properly. An unbalanced washer causes excessive vibration that wears out bearings and suspension. An unlevel fridge can affect door sealing and compressor efficiency. Check levels annually and adjust feet as needed.
The Bottom Line
These maintenance tasks take minimal time but pay off significantly. A well-maintained appliance not only lasts longer—it also runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and unexpected repair costs.
And when something does go wrong despite your best efforts, we are here to help. Sometimes things just wear out—that is life. But with proper care, you will get the most out of every appliance you own.
Appliance Acting Up?
Sometimes maintenance is not enough. We are here when you need professional help.