Extend the Lifespans of Household Appliances With Maintenance
It doesn’t matter whether you purchase an appliance at a big-box retailer, a local outlet, or online, the lifespan of appliances is limited. However, well-maintained machines require fewer repairs, are more energy-efficient, and last longer. The following tips will help you extend the lifespans of household appliances.
The Refrigerator
The refrigerator may be the busiest appliance in the house. It works around the clock to keep food fresh. A fridge can last up to 19 years. However, the life expectancy of a refrigerator will depend on the model, brand, and how well it’s maintained.
To extend a refrigerator’s life expectancy, keep it clean. Using a soft cloth, remove dust and debris from the inner shelves, walls, and exterior of the appliance. Clean the refrigerator coils and the base of the fridge. Keeping the coils clean allows heat to dissipate and the machine to run more efficiently.
If your refrigerator has a drain pan, inspect it regularly. Don’t let it overflow with water.
Dishwasher
A dishwasher can last for seven to ten years. If your dishwasher is leaking, the main culprit is often a cracked seal. Cleaning your dishwasher prevents the accumulation of dirt and damage to its components.
Check the spray arms for food particles and clean the filter as recommended. You’ll notice cleaner dishes and the machine will operate more efficiently.
Prolonging the Lifespans of Household Appliances for Laundry
A washing machine can last seven to ten years with regular maintenance. Do not overload the machine. If the appliance is weighed down with clothes, it will use more energy during the cycle. This strains the washer’s belts, transmission, and motor.
Don’t under-load the washing machine either. Small loads can strain the drive components and cause off-balance cycles. Under-loading also wastes energy and water.
The average clothes dryer will last between seven and 12 years. Clothes dryers become less efficient when the vent becomes clogged. Clean the lint trap after every load and remove and clean the dryer vent every 3 to 6 months.
Water Heater
A water heater can last for up to 15 years. A tip to extend the lifespan of this appliance is to prevent sediment buildup in the tank.
Flush the tank at least once a year. Prevent corrosion in the tank by checking the condition of the sacrificial anode rod in the heater. This corrosion-control device should be replaced after every five years.
To save money, properly maintain your household appliances. While all the appliances in your home will eventually have to be replaced, keeping these machines clean and well-maintained will extend their life expectancy.
GoPro Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Central Florida. Contact us to request an appointment.