With so many responsibilities and tasks already preoccupying busy, working moms, the last thing anyone needs is a broken appliance throwing the week off track. Taking a little time for routine check-ups on your household appliances can prevent many problems before they start. Save yourself time and stress and avoid costly repairs with these routine check-ups that keep common appliances running smoothly.
Refrigerator
A fridge that suddenly stops working can mean spoiled food and wasted money. Keep it in great shape without too much hassle by checking the following components:
The Condition of the Coils
Dust and pet hair love to gather on the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator. Use a vacuum or coil brush to clear them every six months. It might take ten minutes, but the payoff is a fridge that runs more efficiently.
The Status of the Seals
Over time, seals can wear down and weaken an airtight closure. A quick way to test them is the dollar-bill trick—place a bill halfway in the door and close it.
If you can pull it out easily, it’s time to replace the seals, so call a professional sooner rather than later. This way, your fridge wastes less energy working overtime to keep your food cold.
Washing Machine
The washing machine is a workhorse for a busy family, especially one that includes athletes with grimy uniforms, but it can wear out faster without proper maintenance. Check the water hoses for cracks or leaks every couple of months. A burst hose can cause a flood you’d rather not spend time mopping up before getting the kids to school or yourself to work.
HVAC System
Maintaining cool air in the summer and warmth during winter is a must for any household. A quick routine check-up for your heating and cooling systems can prevent big problems:
Change the Filters Regularly
Set a reminder to replace HVAC filters every one to three months, depending on how often you use the system and whether you have pets. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent air conditioning issues, because dirty filters obstruct airflow, forcing your HVAC to overwork itself. Additionally, blocked airflow could cause damage to internal components over time that require expensive repairs.
Inspect Vents and Registers
Blocked vents can strain your HVAC system, too. Make sure they’re free of dirt, dust, and household items. Have a technician conduct an inspection each year. They’ll catch small issues before they turn into expensive headaches.
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Avoid costly repairs with these routine check-ups that extend the life of your appliances. Take action and enlist professional services that help prevent stressful, inconvenient breakdowns, taking one more thing off your plate.
More DIY Fixes Around the House:
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- Don’t Start Your First DIY Project Without Taking These Steps
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- The Ultimate Home Improvement Guide for First-Timers
