Appliance Maintenance Tips & Tricks: Do’s and Don’ts

Keeping your appliances in great shape helps them run better, last longer, and avoid surprise breakdowns. Use this quick Do/Don’t checklist as a simple routine for your kitchen and laundry essentials.

Refrigerator: Do / Don’t

• DO: Clean the door gaskets with warm soapy water and dry them—tight seals save energy.

• DO: Vacuum the condenser coils (back or bottom) every 3–6 months, especially if you have pets.

• DO: Keep the fridge 2/3 full for stable temps (use water jugs if needed).

• DON’T: Block air vents inside—this causes warm spots and uneven cooling.

• DON’T: Use sharp tools to chip ice—defrost instead to avoid puncturing lines.

Dishwasher: Do / Don’t

• DO: Clean the filter regularly (weekly if you run it daily).

• DO: Run a hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar monthly to reduce odors and buildup.

• DO: Check spray arms for clogs and rinse out debris.

• DON’T: Overload—water needs space to circulate for proper cleaning.

• DON’T: Use regular dish soap—only use dishwasher detergent to prevent overflow and residue.

Washer: Do / Don’t

• DO: Leave the door/lid open after loads to help the drum dry and prevent mildew smells.

• DO: Run a tub-clean cycle monthly (or hot cycle with washer cleaner) to reduce buildup.

• DO: Use the right amount of detergent—too much causes residue and odors.

• DON’T: Wash heavy items (like rugs) without checking the label—imbalanced loads strain the machine.

• DON’T: Ignore slow draining—clean the pump filter (if accessible) before it becomes a bigger issue.

Dryer: Do / Don’t

• DO: Clean the lint screen every load—this improves drying and reduces fire risk.

• DO: Clean the vent line at least once a year (more often for heavy use).

• DO: Make sure the dryer has proper airflow behind it (avoid crushing the vent).

• DON’T: Run the dryer if you smell burning—stop and check lint buildup and venting.

Oven & Range: Do / Don’t

• DO: Wipe spills as soon as the surface is cool—baked-on mess is harder to remove later.

• DO: Keep burner ports (gas) clear—use a soft brush to remove debris.

• DO: Use the right cookware size to reduce heat loss and improve cooking performance.

• DON’T: Use harsh abrasives on glass cooktops—use a cooktop-safe cleaner and scraper designed for glass.

Quick Seasonal Checklist

• Every month: Clean dishwasher filter, run washer tub-clean, check fridge temps (37°F/3°C fridge, 0°F/-18°C freezer).

• Every 3–6 months: Vacuum fridge coils, inspect washer hoses for bulges/cracks, deep-clean oven as needed.

• Yearly: Clean dryer vent line, check water connections, and replace worn seals/hoses before they leak.

If you’re noticing unusual noises, leaks, burning smells, or inconsistent temperatures, it’s best to stop using the appliance and get it checked before the issue gets worse.