If you are a first-time homeowner, you may not realize how easy it is to care for many of your essential fixtures. While appliance repairs are occasionally necessary, taking several precautions can limit how often you need this service. Below are several strategies to help you clean and inspect various kitchen appliances so that you get the most use out of them.

What Kitchen Devices Require the Most Maintenance?

1. Refrigerator

Gaskets are some of the most significant parts on a refrigerator, and many homeowners do not know how to clean them. They are the elastic strips the line the outer edge of the door to create an airtight seal. However, food and grease can buildup within the rubber, tearing the gaskets over time. Use warm water and a sponge to clean these areas once a month to reduce the risk of damage.

Another component that requires regular maintenance is the condenser coil, which is typically on the back of the appliance. When these get dirty, your refrigerator must work harder to regulate the temperature, causing significant wear and tear. Check the coil several times a year and clean any visible debris with a soft cloth.

2. Stove & Oven

Maintaining your stove’s burners is necessary to ensure your stovetop is reliable. For example, if you have electric burners, they may stop working without the proper alignment. Whenever you detach them for cleaning, ensure you place them into the correct position. However, you should never force them into their brackets.

For the oven, clean any visible food debris regularly, as the scraps can create a fire that requires significant appliance repairs. Debris includes grease, crumbs, and anything else that may stick the trays and sides. Create a solution of water and baking soda and spread it around the oven. Leave this for a few hours, and then wipe the appliance with a sponge.

3. Dishwasher

If you notice your dishwasher isn't performing efficiently, food scraps are likely clogging the filter. When this happens, water cannot drain from the appliance, potentially flooding your kitchen and causing wires to short-circuit.

To clean it, remove the bottom washing rack and unscrew the filter cover on the bottom of the dishwasher. Then, take out the screen and wash away all food into the garbage disposal. This will reduce the chance that you experience a kitchen flood.

Even with regular maintenance and cleaning, your kitchen fixtures may still break down. When that happens and you need appliance repair, contact Pro Appliance in Portal, GA. They have over 25 years of experience servicing key household appliances, whether you have an issue in the kitchen or laundry room. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (912) 764-4654 to schedule an appointment.