There is no worse time than for an appliance such as a refrigerator or dryer to give out, right? This can happen to anyone, at anytime, but it usually happens more frequently during the winter.
As the winter months are upon us, the dip in temperature may cause complications such as frozen pipes and clogged vents. To avoid having this happen to you, contact your local repair company to schedule a maintenance service performed on your large appliances. The experts will go through their checklist and make sure everything is hooked up, clean, and working properly.
Here are some tips for getting your appliances winter ready. Proper maintenance can save you from the costly repairs before they happen.
Refrigerator Maintenance Checklist
If your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly:
- Clean the Seal: The seal on refrigerator doors can often have food particles or other grime that allow cool air to slowly filter out of the appliance. Use a solution of baking soda and water applied with a toothbrush, then wipe the rubber seal down with a wet cloth.
- Dust the Coils: Dirty coils make the refrigerator work harder to cool down, often resulting in higher temperatures. Locate your refrigerator’s coils (either at the front base or the back of fridge) and use the brush attachment on your vacuum to clear any dust or debris.
- Check the Fan Motor: The refrigerator relies on the evaporator fan motor to cool the compartments. Locate the fan motor (often inside the freezer) and see if you can move the fan blades. If you cannot, you likely need a new motor.
- Make Sure Your Pipes are Winterized: If you have a garage refrigerator, it is helpful to shut off the water to prevent from frozen pipes or water leaks.
If you are noticing that your refrigerator has excess condensation or feels too warm, these are sure signs that your refrigerator needs maintenance.
If your fridge is over 10 years old and having problems, it is best to replace it. Older refrigerators can be very costly with repairs, like old condenser coils, old technology needing updates, and the wear and tear. Getting your refrigerator replaced will save you more money in the end.
Dryer Maintenance Checklist
If your dryer takes too long to dry, you may want to:
- Check and Clean the Vent: If the vent is clogged, the dryer won’t be able to heat properly. A professional should perform regular cleanings, since the process usually involves taking the dryer apart. Have your dryer vent cleaned out each year. Lint accumulates and causes clogs in the pipes that can lead to dryer fires.
- Check Lines: If your dryer lines are long with bends and turns, consider an alternative route. This will allow easier air flow, less clogging, and less cleaning maintenance. Your local appliance repair service can advise you.
- Check the Power Connection: While it seems simple enough, it may have just been overlooked. Check to make sure the power source hasn’t been bumped or disconnected. You may even try unplugging and reconnecting an electric dryer.
Stove & Oven Maintenance Checklist
Stove is not working the way it used to:
- You maybe thinking your stove is taking a long time to heat to the set temperature. Perhaps it’s just not working the way it used to and you are considering buying a new one. It may be more beneficial for you to have your oven serviced and repaired before you go through all that time and money looking for a new one. Besides, working with gas and electricity is dangerous, why risk it doing it yourself to save a few bucks.
- Check your thermostat on your oven to make sure it is working properly. This can lead to overcooked or undercooked food.
Dishwasher Maintenance Checklist
Dishwasher isn’t running properly:
- Make sure the water shut-off valve is open. If the valve is open, but the dishwasher still isn’t getting water during the fill cycle, the valve may need to be replaced.
- If you’re dishes aren’t coming out as clean as they should be, try adding more dishwashing detergent. This will help in determining it is with the soap you are using or the cycle of the dishwasher.
- It’s a good idea to periodically clean your dishwasher to remove any calcium build-up that has occurred. Calcium build-up often leaves a smoky film on dishes, most noticeable on glassware. There are a variety of dishwasher cleaners available for purchase.
Schedule an Appliance Service Appointment Now BEFORE Things Go Bad
You can expand the life of your appliances by maintaining them annually. Keeping up with yearly maintenance and scheduling a routine service will ensure the longevity of your home appliances and can avoid the unexpected breakdown at the worst time.
Call (847) 459-8070 to reach the experts at Area Appliance Service and schedule your repair or maintenance appointment today. We are available 24/7 and have been in business since 1958. AAS also has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, offers a 100% Satisfaction Guaranty for up to 12 months, and has up to a 12 month Warranty on parts and labor.
Area Appliance Repair services the Buffalo Grove and Arlington Heights area including Northbrook, Schaumburg, Des Plaines, Bartlett, Palatine, and more.
