1. Clean the Condenser Coils Regularly

Dust and debris accumulate on the condenser coils (usually located at the back or bottom of your fridge), making the compressor work harder. Clean them every 6 months with a coil brush or vacuum cleaner.

2. Maintain Proper Temperature Settings

Your refrigerator should be between 35°F and 38°F (1.7°C to 3.3°C), and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Use an appliance thermometer to verify temperatures.

3. Check and Replace Door Seals

Damaged door seals (gaskets) allow cold air to escape. Test them by closing a dollar bill in the door - if it slips out easily, replace the seals.

4. Defrost Manual-Defrost Freezers

If you have a manual-defrost freezer, defrost when frost builds up to 1/4 inch thick. Excess frost reduces efficiency and storage space.

5. Keep It Stocked (But Not Overcrowded)

A moderately stocked refrigerator maintains temperature better than an empty one. However, overcrowding blocks air circulation.

• Leave space between items for air to circulate
• Cover liquids and foods to prevent moisture buildup
• Store foods properly to prevent premature spoilage

Read Less

Washer Won't Start

If your washer won't turn on at all:

Washer Not Draining

If water remains in the drum after a cycle:

• Check for kinks in the drain hose
• Clean the drain pump filter (consult your manual for location)
• Inspect the drain hose for clogs
• Check that the drain hose isn't too far inserted into the standpipe

Washer Making Loud Noises

Common noise sources and solutions:

Noise Type	Possible Cause	Solution
Grinding	Worn motor coupling or bearings	Professional repair needed
Thumping	Unbalanced load	Redistribute clothes evenly
Squeaking	Worn belt or pulley	Inspect and replace if needed

Washer Leaking Water

Check these common leak sources:

• Inlet hoses (tighten connections or replace hoses)
• Drain hose connection
• Door seal/gasket (clean or replace if damaged)
• Internal tub seal (requires professional repair)

Read Less

1. Clean the Lint Filter After Every Load

This simple habit improves airflow and drying efficiency while reducing fire risk.

2. Clean the Vent Duct Annually

A clogged vent duct is a leading cause of dryer fires. Signs you need cleaning:

• Clothes take longer to dry
• Dryer feels very hot to the touch
• Noticeable lint accumulation around the dryer

3. Check the Drum Seals

Worn drum seals can cause heat loss and inefficient drying. Inspect for:

• Visible cracks or tears in the seals
• Heat escaping from the door area
• Unusual noises during operation

4. Level Your Dryer

An unlevel dryer can cause excessive vibration and wear. Use a level to check and adjust the feet as needed.

5. Know When to Call a Professional

Contact a technician if you notice:

• Burning smells during operation
• The dryer stops mid-cycle
• Unusual noises that persist after basic maintenance
• Error codes you can't resolve

Read Less

1. Check the Power Source

Before assuming the worst, verify basic power issues:

2. Common Electric Oven Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Oven not heating at all	Bake element burned out	Replace bake element
Oven heats unevenly	Faulty temperature sensor	Replace sensor or calibrate
Oven overheats	Faulty control board	Professional repair needed

3. Common Gas Oven Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Oven won't ignite	Faulty igniter	Replace igniter
Flame goes out	Faulty safety valve	Professional repair needed
Gas smell	Gas leak	Turn off gas and call professional immediately

4. When to Call a Professional

Contact an appliance repair technician for:

• Electrical issues beyond basic element replacement
• Gas line or ignition system problems
• Control board or electronic component failures
• Any repairs requiring disassembly of the oven

Read Less

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

1. Clean the Filter

Most dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom. Clean it monthly:

2. Clean Spray Arms

Clogged spray arm holes reduce cleaning performance:

• Remove spray arms (usually twist-off)
• Use a toothpick to clear clogged holes
• Soak in vinegar if mineral deposits are present
• Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling

3. Run a Cleaning Cycle

Monthly deep cleaning options:

• Commercial dishwasher cleaner (follow package instructions)
• 1 cup white vinegar placed in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack
• 1/2 cup baking soda sprinkled on the bottom of the tub

Quarterly Maintenance

1. Check Door Seal

Inspect the rubber gasket around the door for:

• Food debris (wipe clean with damp cloth)
• Mold or mildew (clean with vinegar solution)
• Cracks or tears (requires replacement)

2. Inspect Drain Hose

Prevent clogs and leaks by:

• Checking for kinks in the hose
• Ensuring proper connection to garbage disposal or drain
• Clearing any debris from the air gap (if present)

Usage Tips for Best Performance

• Scrape (don't rinse) dishes before loading
• Load dishes properly to allow water flow
• Use the right detergent for your water hardness
• Run hot water at the sink before starting the dishwasher
• Use the appropriate cycle for the load

Read Less

1. Defrost Regularly (For Manual-Defrost Models)

Defrost when frost exceeds 1/4 inch thickness:

2. Check Door Seals

Faulty seals allow warm air in, causing frost buildup:

• Clean seals with mild soap and water
• Check for cracks or tears
• Test seal strength with dollar bill test

3. Maintain Proper Temperature

Ideal freezer temperature is 0°F (-18°C). Use an appliance thermometer to verify.

4. Organize Contents for Airflow

Proper organization prevents cold spots:

• Don't overpack - leave space for air circulation
• Store similar items together
• Keep frequently used items accessible

5. Clean Condenser Coils

Dirty coils make the compressor work harder:

Read Less