Your kitchen appliances put in more work than you might realize. Day after day, week after week, they help you prepare meals, store leftovers, and even help clean up. But without the proper care, your best appliances will inevitably start to wear down. By keeping up with the maintenance of your kitchen appliances, you can add years to their life, reduce energy bills, and avoid costly repairs down the road. 

The key? A few simple habits done consistently throughout the year.

Here are a few useful tips to care for your kitchen appliances the smart way—all year long.

Why Kitchen Appliance Maintenance Matters

We all know that quality kitchen appliances aren’t cheap. Whether you’ve already decided to purchase a high-end refrigerator, the latest microwave, or an oven that you can preheat using Wi-Fi—regular maintenance helps protect your investment. Most of the time, maintenance is fairly simple. Dirt, grime, and wear from daily use are common culprits. But just because it’s simple doesn’t mean to neglect it.

Aside from saving money, well-maintained appliances generally run more efficiently. A clean refrigerator cools down faster. A cared-for dishwasher uses less water. Even small appliances—such as toasters and coffee makers—perform better when they’re cleaned and used correctly.

Keep It Clean, Inside and Out

It’s true that regularly cleaning your appliances is one of the easiest ways to prevent damage. But investigating what’s going on inside of your appliances can be just as helpful.

  • Take your refrigerator. It’s recommended that you clean the condenser coils every six months. When dust builds up on and around these coils, it can lead to overheating and early failure. The coils can usually be found on the back or bottom of the unit. We recommend using a coil brush or vacuum to remove buildup. If you can’t find the coils, consult the manufacturer’s manual.
  • Dishwashers need regular internal cleaning. From food particles to grease and soap residue, your dishwasher can suffer from clogs, unpleasant smells, and even leaks. Running a cleaning cycle once a month with vinegar or throwing in some dishwasher cleaner can go a long way in preventing future issues. Plus, don’t forget to remove and clean the filter, if your model has one.
  • Microwaves can also benefit from an occasional deep clean. Food splatters are the primary culprit in internal microwave cleaning. One way to make the cleaning process easier is by filling a microwave-safe bowl with water and lemon juice. Allow it to steam for a few minutes. This will make the wiping down easier and help your microwave smell fresh.
  • Your oven should be regularly cleaned. Self-cleaning modes—while useful at times—can cause the appliance to get extremely hot and wear down over time. Instead, try using baking soda paste to wash down the interior after spills and splatters. This method is generally safer for your appliance and your air quality.

Don’t Overload or Overwork Your Appliances

Overloading your appliances is one of the fastest ways to shorten their lifespan. We’ve all been guilty of this at one point or another—from stuffing the fridge full after a grocery run to jamming “just one more dish” into the dishwasher. But doing this can push your appliances beyond their capabilities.

Your refrigerator needs open space so air can effectively circulate. Blocking the internal vents by overstuffing it with new groceries forces the motor to work harder to keep the temperature the same. This added stress ultimately leads to wear and tear.

When it comes to your kitchen washer-dryer combo, be sure to stick to the load size recommendations for best results. Dishes packed too closely together can prevent the washing and rinsing from working as effectively as they should. Consistently overburdening your appliances can lead to faster wear and tear—resulting in unexpected repair costs.

Check Seals and Gaskets Often

Seals are often what keep your appliances airtight and efficient. If a seal happens to be loose, cracked, or a little dirty, it can let in heat, moisture, and bacteria—all of which is bad news for both performance and food safety.

 

Homeowner resealing her refrigerator and freezer.

 

For your refrigerator and freezer, use a dollar bill to test the strength of the seal. If it slides out easily, it likely means the seal isn’t tight enough. Clean it with warm, soapy water. If the seal has hardened, it may be time to replace it. The same is true for your oven. A leaky door can affect cooking times and waste valuable energy.

One thing you may not have known is that your dishwasher also has seals. If you notice water seeping from the door, the gasket could be the reason. A simple wipe-down can help keep it flexible and working properly.

Don’t Ignore Vents and Filters

As mentioned above, quality airflow is essential in keeping your appliances performing optimally. Plus, it keeps them from overheating. That’s why it’s imperative to keep your filters and vents clean.

Microwaves with built-in range hoods come with grease and charcoal filters that can trap oil and smoke. These filters tend to get clogged quickly—especially if you cook often. Most can be washed in warm, soapy water, or placed in the dishwasher if the manufacturer’s manual says it’s safe to do so.

Your range hood filter works in a similar way. We recommend cleaning or replacing it every couple of months to reduce fire hazards.

Your refrigerator and freezer rely on internal airflow. Avoid blocking the vents inside with food containers, if possible. This can be difficult when you’re in a hurry, but it really helps maintain temperature and energy efficiency. 

When in Doubt, Call a Pro

Yearly maintenance from a professional technician can help identify issues before they become major. 

 

A professional repairing a dishwasher.

 

This is especially the case when it comes to gas stoves, high-end refrigerators, or built-in units.

Consistency Counts

Kitchen appliance care doesn’t require a lot of time or skill. Just a few smart habits—such as regular cleaning, avoiding overloads, and checking seals often—can keep your appliances running like new. Another way of thinking about it is preventative maintenance for your home’s most important machines.

If you’d like to learn more about how America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW) can help you as you enter the new year, you can CLICK HERE to visit our site to request a quote—it’s free!