by 
Are you tired of constantly replacing your home appliances? Want to make sure they last as long as possible? Then, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we will provide you with pro tips on how to extend the life of your home appliances.
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Appliances
Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to understand your appliances. This will help you determine how best to take care of them and increase their lifespan.
Read the user manual
While this may seem like an obvious tip, many people neglect to read the user manual for their appliances. But this is a great source of information on how to properly use and maintain your appliance. Make sure to go through the manual thoroughly before using your appliance.
Know the lifespan of your appliances
Appliances have an average lifespan, which varies depending on the brand and model. Knowing the expected lifespan of your appliances will help you anticipate when they might need repairs or replacement. Generally, refrigerators last 13-15 years, washing machines last 10-12 years, and dishwashers last 9-11 years.
Specific Tips for Extending the Life of Key Appliances
If you want your home appliances to last longer, follow these specific tips for each appliance category.
Refrigerator
- Keep the coils clean: Dust and debris can build up on the coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator, reducing its efficiency. Make sure to clean them regularly with a vacuum cleaner or a coil brush.
- Don’t overload it: Overstuffing your fridge can block proper air circulation, making it work harder and reducing its lifespan. Keep your refrigerator at or below the recommended capacity.
- Replace seals when necessary: If you notice that your refrigerator door is not closing properly, it may be time to replace the seals. This will prevent cool air from leaking out and save energy.
Washing Machine
- Don’t overload it: Similar to refrigerators, overloading your washing machine can cause strain on the motor and reduce its lifespan. Follow the recommended load capacity for your specific model.
- Clean the lint filter regularly: Lint buildup in the filter can cause your washing machine to work harder and shorten its lifespan. Make sure to clean the filter after every use.
- Use proper detergent: Using too much detergent can cause buildup and damage to your washing machine. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the right amount of detergent to use.
Dishwasher
- Run hot water before starting a cycle: This will ensure that your dishwasher starts with hot water, making it more efficient and reducing strain on its motor.
- Clean the filter regularly: Similar to washing machines, dishwashers also have a filter that needs to be cleaned regularly. This will prevent buildup and clogging, which can cause damage over time.
- Avoid using too much detergent: Excess detergent can lead to suds and prevent your dishwasher from properly cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the correct amount of detergent to use.
Air Conditioner
- Change the filter regularly: A dirty filter can cause your air conditioner to work harder and reduce its lifespan. Make sure to clean or replace the filter every few months.
- Schedule regular maintenance: It’s important to have your air conditioning unit serviced annually by a professional. This will ensure that it is running efficiently and catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems. In Tempe, AZ, you can find reliable air conditioning repair services to help maintain your unit’s lifespan.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear: Make sure that the outdoor unit of your air conditioner is free from debris and vegetation. This will allow for proper airflow and prevent strain on the compressor.
Why It’s Important to Extend the Life of Your Appliances
Apart from avoiding frequent replacements, extending the life of your home appliances has many other benefits. These include:
- Saving money: Repairing or replacing an appliance can be expensive. By extending their lifespan, you can save money and allocate those funds towards other expenses.
- Reducing carbon footprint: By making your appliances last longer, you are reducing the need for new appliances to be manufactured. This helps reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
- Better performance: Properly maintained appliances will perform better and more efficiently. This means they’ll save energy and work as expected, making your life easier.
Final Thoughts on Home Appliances
Your home appliances play a crucial role in keeping your household running smoothly. By following these pro tips, you can extend their lifespan and save yourself time, money, and stress in the long run. Remember to read your user manuals, understand the lifespan of your appliances, and follow specific tips for each category to ensure they last as long as possible.
