Thanksgiving and Christmas are special times of the year when we’re playing host to family, friends, and other guests. This means we’re relying on our appliances more than usual. And there are certain risks that come with that.

The three appliances that break down most during the holidays are our refrigerator, oven/stove, and, of course, our dishwasher. We’ll walk you through why these appliances tend to break down, and what to keep an eye on before all the guests arrive!

1. Refrigerator

We depend on our refrigerators a lot during the holiday season. It keeps food and drinks cool for meals, parties, and other gatherings. However, the additional load can put stress on the appliance. 

 

Modern white double-door refrigerator against teal wall with patterned tile flooring, perfect for holiday kitchen upgrades.

 

The most common issues are:

  • Compressor failure.
  • Refrigerant leaks.
  • Thermostat issues.
  • Frost buildup in the freezer.

These malfunctions can ultimately lead to spoiled food, which can turn into a significant issue during the holidays. Our refrigerator maintenance checklist will ensure your appliance is in the best condition possible before meal time!

2. Oven/Stove

The oven/stove is often the all-star during the holiday season. It singlehandedly produces some of our favorite dishes—such as pies, roasts, and casseroles. If you own an older appliance, it’s especially important to run through a maintenance checklist.

Intense usage can cause wear and tear on the appliance’s timer, ignition systems, and other elements.

 

Modern white electric oven with digital display and sleek design, set against a teal wall and tiled floor, ideal for holiday cooking needs.

 

The most common issues are:

  • Heating inconsistencies.
  • Burners failing to ignite.
  • Faulty oven door seal.

Not only can a broken oven/stove throw a wrench in your holiday plans, but it can also turn into a hazard if left unattended. That’s why we recommend you check out our video walkthrough for general oven/stove maintenance.

3. Dishwasher

Dishwashers run almost non-stop during Thanksgiving and Christmas—always having to keep up with the piles of dishes that have built up after parties and family get-togethers. Consequently, the heavy use can lead to unforeseen appliance issues.

The most common issues are:

  • Clogged drains.
  • Broken door seals.
  • Malfunctioning spray arms.

Additionally, dishwashers can develop leaking issues and pump failures. During this time of year, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Home improvement legend Bob Vila recommends monthly dishwasher maintenance to prevent breakdowns.

So, before inviting in all your beloved guests, double check that your kitchen appliances are in good shape and ready to go!

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