There are two truths about kitchen appliances – they are expensive, and we rely on them daily. Naturally, when some break, we feel frustrated as it disrupts our daily routine. Furthermore, nobody likes unexpected costs – replacing or repairing kitchen appliances can cost a lot. So, is there a way to make sure your little kitchen helpers last longer? Absolutely! Here are the ways to extend the life of kitchen appliances in your home and ensure they work properly for as long as possible.
Fridge
Probably the most significant kitchen appliance (and often the most expensive one) is the fridge. Generally, fridges last from 10 to 13 years, depending on various conditions. That’s why you should take good care of it, so it lasts as long as possible. Several things can help you do that.
Regular cleaning
Maintaining your fridge’s cleanliness is not only about removing the bad smell from some leftovers. Regular cleaning will surely extend the life of kitchen appliances such as fridges. Firstly, ensure that the inside is fresh and clean, and deal with the leftovers regularly. Use vinegar to clean the shelves – it will also help with any bad smell lingering inside your fridge. Next, check if the outside, meaning the coil behind your fridge, is free of dust and dirt. Unplug the refrigerator and vacuum in the back to prevent hair or dust build-up that can lead to overheating and damage to the compressor. Finally, regularly clean the doors of your fridge by wiping the seal. It will minimize the dirt and mold that can cause the door to open on its own and mess up with the cooling system.
Defrosting
This is important only for old-style fridges and freezers. Modern ones have the auto-defrost option, so there’s no need to worry. However, if you bought your fridge a long time ago, defrost it once a year. Be careful while doing it so you don’t damage the inside surface of the freezer.
Food storing
Innovative food storing can also help with fridge longevity. It’s important not to place too much food in the fridge so there’s enough food circulation and the cooling system can work properly. Also, leaving it empty for too long can decrease its lifespan. An empty fridge needs to work harder to reach a specific temperature, which is not good for its longevity.
Relocating
Fridge and other kitchen appliances need special care if you need to relocate or store them away when renovating your home. Firstly, make sure they are adequately packed for transport. Next, to keep your appliances safe from moisture, store them in a climate-controlled storage unit. Such places protect delicate items that require climate controlled storage such as electronics and home appliances, but also documents, artwork, etc.
Oven and stove
The most used appliances include an oven and a stove. We prepare food every day, which is why you don’t want to be left without your major helpers in the middle of the cooking. Here are some tips on expanding their life and avoiding unnecessary repairs:
· Clean after each use – food and dirt build-up is the biggest enemy of these kitchen appliances. Be sure to clean them thoroughly and deal with spills as soon as they cool down. Once a year, do a thorough clean of your stove. Experts from allseasonmovers.com recommend deep-cleaning appliances in case of moving house or renovating when these items need to be packed and transported to another location.
· Use the right tools – most of the kitchen cleaners that say to remove dirt and oil are often very aggressive. Use it only when necessary, and replace it with a mild cleaner for regular maintenance. Also, your tools for removing dirt should be silicone or plastic – metal will remove the coating and cause severe damage to your oven or stove.
· Clean the filters on your oven – remove the grease build-up so the filters can do their job correctly and ensure your kitchen air vent has a free flow.
· Repair the seals – it’s okay for the seals on your oven door to wear out over time due to high temperatures. Replace them if necessary, so your oven stays in good condition for a long time.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are the best things to do in the long run. Just remember – items you use every day need special care to last longer.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers have become an essential part of almost every kitchen. That’s why you shouldn’t forget about it when you look for ways to extend the life of kitchen appliances in your home. Here’s what you can do to help your dishwasher reach its maximum age:
· Descale the dishwasher once a month – if you live in an area with hard water, you should regularly remove mineral and limescale residue. Run a cycle without dishes, using an appropriate solution, vinegar, or tablets to make your dishwasher like new again.
· Know how to load the dishwasher – the way you wash the dishes can also make the lifespan of your dishwasher longer or shorter. Also, don’t run full loads, but use a moderate number of dishes. Face the dirty sides towards the center so the water can reach those areas well.
· Be sure to remove food debris, stickers, or packaging leftovers before placing the dishes in the dishwasher. Don’t put items that are not suitable for machine-washing. There’s a good reason why these are labeled not dishwasher safe.
These tips will make your dishwasher last longer and ensure your dishes are sparkly clean every time.
Microwave oven
Microwaves are smaller than other appliances we mentioned, but they are just as important to take care of. It’s one of the first things you need after you move in, so it’s vital to help it last longer. Start by cleaning it regularly and dealing with the spills as soon as possible. Also, microwave doors are a common issue, so be gentle when opening and closing. And don’t forget to wipe the door seal from time to time. Finally, don’t forget that microwaves don’t last as long as other kitchen appliances. Their life span is usually from 5 to 10 years, but you can ensure your microwave reaches the maximum age before replacing it.
Other kitchen appliances such as blenders, juicers, and coffee makers also need daily maintenance. Clean the food or liquid remains right after using the appliances. It will make them last longer, but also, it will be easier to use them next time you need to make something.
Never underestimate our daily helpers that do cooking and cleaning a lot easier these days. That’s why it’s important to try to extend the life of kitchen appliances in your home and save money in the long run.
