Appliances are a lot like people: they need to be taken care of, but they don’t always make it easy. If you’re wondering how to keep your appliances in good working order and save money in the process, here’s some advice from appliance repair experts and repairmen on how to make sure your washing machines, hot water heaters and dryers last as long as possible.
Clean Your Washing Machine
- Lint filter: Cleaning the lint filter is one of the most important things you can do to keep your washing machine running efficiently. The lint trap captures loose fabric fibers and other particles from your clothing, preventing them from getting into the inner workings of your machine. If it’s not cleaned out regularly, these materials can build up and clog airways that need to be clear for proper operation.
- Door gasket: Your door seal should be checked periodically for signs of wear or damage that could allow water to leak into its cavity during use—this could cause mildew or mold growth on surfaces inside your dryer cabinet (yuck!). If you notice any cracks in this part of your washer, replace it as soon as possible so they don’t get worse over time! It’s also good practice if you notice any leaks under where this piece goes; removing some screws with an Allen wrench may reveal more serious issues that need attention ASAP before they become too difficult to fix later down road when repairs are more expensive due being harder labor intensive if corrosion has already set in before now…
Make Sure Your Hot Water Heater is Well Insulated
Make sure that your hot water heater is well insulated. If you have an exposed hot water tank, it’s important to put some kind of insulation around it. Don’t just throw a blanket or sheet over it—make sure that there’s some kind of heavy material like an old comforter or duvet between the tank and whatever else you’ve got covering it up. This will keep the heat from escaping from your hot water heater and save you money by reducing how long your water takes to get warm enough for showers and baths.
Also, if any exposed pipes anywhere in your house are likely to freeze during winter months (like those leading into bathrooms), wrap them with insulation as well! If there’s anything else that needs insulation as well (like windows or doors), do those as well!
Don’t Use Too Much Detergent or Soap
It’s important to use the right amount of detergent. Too much detergent can cause residue and clogging that will damage your machine. If you’re finding that you need to clean it more often than usual, use less detergent next time. You should also make sure that the filter is clean before each wash.
Keep A Plunger Nearby
It may seem like a simple tool, but the plunger can be used for so much more than just unclogging drains. It’s also extremely useful for repairing sinks and toilets, as well as unclogging tubs. Plungers are available in many different sizes and styles, so it’s easy to find one that fits your needs perfectly. Just remember: if you’re using a plunger on any kind of pipe or faucet—whether it’s attached to another appliance or not—make sure you’re using clean water to avoid damage!
Don’t Overload the Dryer
You can reduce dryer time and energy usage by not overloading the machine. Overloading can cause your dryer to run for longer, which increases energy costs and potentially damages the appliance. To keep your clothes from getting damaged, make sure there’s around 2-3 inches of space between them when you load them in the machine. If you need more help determining if you’re loading appropriately, check out this handy chart from Consumer Reports:
Appliances can last a long time if you take care of them.
Appliances can last a long time if you take care of them. If you’re like me, your appliances are probably expensive and you want to keep them in good condition for as long as possible. Taking care of your appliances not only extends their life but also saves money on replacement costs. Here are five tips for caring for your appliances:
- Clean the filters regularly. Filters clean the air that comes into the unit, so make sure they’re clean before turning on any fans or air conditioners in hot weather.
- Keep heating units clear of dust and dirt so they can work properly without overheating or breaking down prematurely due to lack of airflow through vents or coils (which are made from metal). This includes keeping dryer ducts free from lint buildup as well–and don’t forget about those refrigerators with ice makers!
Conclusion
We hope that these tips have given you a few ideas on how to save money by taking care of your appliances. It might seem like a lot of work, but the truth is that it only takes a few minutes of your time each week to keep them running smoothly. Once you get into the habit, it becomes easy and can save you money in the long run!
