How to help your appliances last longer

Doing everything you can to ensure your appliances last as long as practical, not only means you’re getting the most value for money possible but it also helps protect our environment by reducing rubbish.

For all home appliances, following the care instructions recommended in the manufacturer’s product manual can go a long way to extending the unit’s useful life.

Another good tip is to carry out appliance repairs as soon as you notice an issue. Any faults in the appliance can mean the rest of the unit is having to work harder to compensate, leading to premature wear and tear, and possible breakdown. Fix the little problems before they become big problems.

Tips to get the most out of your dishwasher

How long will your home dishwasher last? On average your dishwasher is expected to last 6 to 10 years. How can you help?

• Scrape off excess food before putting items in the dishwasher to stop filters and spray arms from becoming clogged. Pre-rinsing is not usually required unless the food has dried on.
• Clean out filters and wipe seals regularly (at least once a week)
• Use the hot water cycle to get rid of any bacteria and gunk buildup in the unit.
• Avoid putting too much in the dishwasher as it can lead to overworking or obstructing the spray arm, resulting in unwashed items and added strain on the appliance.

Washing machine care tips to extend its useful life

How long will your washing machine last? On average washing machines have a useful life of 7 or 8 years. How can you help?

• Ensure the washing machine feet are balanced evenly to stop excess movement during the washing process.
• Wipe seals and clear lint filters regularly.
• Wash out the detergent drawer to remove dried powder.
• Leave the door or lid open when the machine is not in use to allow it to dry out. This helps stop mould or mildew growth and the development of musty odours.
• Give the whole unit a full clean every few months

Simple oven maintenance hacks

How long will your oven last? On average domestic ovens will last for 13 to 15 years.

The frequency that your oven will need cleaning & maintenance will depend on how much you use it as well as what you cook. If you’re cooking up a big roast every Sunday you’ll need to clean the oven more often than someone who only uses it to warm croissants once a month. While most ovens will provide more than 13 years worth of cooking, a bit of extra maintenance can extend that even further. How can you help?

• Regularly clean the oven to prevent damage from grease or food left on the surfaces for long periods. (These can also taint your cooking with unwanted flavours)
• Cleaning also helps the efficiency of the oven – an element free of build up does not have to work as hard to heat the oven compared to one which is caked with burnt grease and food.
• For self cleaning or pyrolytic, catalytic or steam ovens run the clean cycle sparingly. This feature is very handy but places a heavy load on the oven which, if used too frequently, can prematurely wear out the unit.
• Replace seals (door gasket) or repair any oven door hinge issues to ensure a secure close to avoid heat escaping while cooking.
• Avoid covering shelves or the bottom of the oven with aluminium foil as it can affect how efficiently and evenly the oven heats.

How to prolong the life of your dryer

How long will your dryer last? Home dryers have an average life span of 8 to 10 years. How can you help?

• Clear the lint filter – every load. This not only ensures the unit works efficiently it also reduces the chance of fire from an overheated drum.
• Allow adequate space around the unit for the dryer to draw and expel air.
• Clear vent openings of dust and lint regularly.
• Don’t overload the dryer – this causes the unit to work harder than it should which can lead to component failure or long-term damage to the motor.

Jamming that extra pair of jeans into the dryer can also mean it takes longer for the load to dry. Two small loads can be more efficient and effective than one stuffed full load.

Fridge & freezer care tips

How long will my fridge and freezer last? Most home fridges and freezers have an average life span of 6 to 13 years. How can you help?

• Wipe down the fridge and freezer seals to remove any debris and allow an airtight close.
• Repair damaged seals as soon as possible to prevent cooling leaks and overworking the fridge
• Dust or vacuum the back of the fridge to allow air to freely circulate around the condenser coils.
• Don’t overfill your fridge as this interferes with the cool air circulation which can lead to food not cooling properly and your fridge working overtime to get to the desired temperature.
• While most freezers are frost free now if yours is not don’t let ice build up in the freezer, defrost the unit regularly.

If you have an appliance that has reached the end of its useful life find a local e-waste recycle company to collect and reuse the components safely.

If you’re in South East Queensland and need appliance repairs contact the experienced team at Fallon Solutions today.