They’re finally here, your brand-new appliances. They are shiny and pretty and you can’t wait to use them! But how can you get the most out of any new appliance, and how do you keep it running like new? Like all technology, today’s appliances offer a wealth of features that may not be obvious or intuitive to you, especially if your previous model was older or lacked all the new bells and whistles. Following are a few suggestions to help you take full advantage of your new kitchen appliances, as well as some suggestions for keeping your new machines in like-new condition.
New Refrigerators
Today’s refrigerator models are still fairly basic machines, easy to keep in great condition, thanks to their relatively simple design. Refrigerators use a compressor pump to condense hot refrigerant vapor that circulates through a series of heat-exchanging condenser coils. The air around the coils dissipates the heat and cools the vapor back to liquid. The refrigerant then flows through evaporator coils where it sucks up thermal energy, expands back into a gas and then gets pumped out the condenser coils where it then starts all over again.
The longer a compressor runs, the faster it will wear out, so strive to maintain the ideal internal temperature. All those times your dad told you to shut the refrigerator door, he was right! Clean the door seals with warm, soapy water every three months and run a vacuum with a brush attachment over the fan and condenser coils monthly to prevent dust bunnies from taking up residence. Dust bunnies make terrible pets, after all.
Your New Washing Machine
These are great at cleaning your clothes but not so great at getting rid of the dirt they removed from those clothes. If you notice that your clothes are coming out dingy, it’s time to give your washer a cleaning. For top-load washers, let the clothing tub fill with a full load’s worth of hot water, then add a quart of bleach and let it agitate for a minute before pausing it. Let it soak for about an hour before you resume the cycle. Repeat the process after that cycle is through, but with a quart of white vinegar to remove odors.
For front loaders, dissolve four tablespoons of baking soda in four cups of warm water. Soak a washcloth in this solution and then put some elbow grease into it to get rid of any residue on the inside of the tub. Run a rinse cycle to finish. You also will want to occasionally check the hoses that carry water to and from the washer for signs of wear. Any blisters, cracks or sponginess means it’s time to replace!
Getting the Most from Your New Appliances
If you don’t have the time or patience to sit down with the manual and teach yourself how to use and care for your new appliances, consider scheduling a service call with your favorite appliance repair tech. Better yet, instead of purchasing your new appliances from the local big box store, contact Complete Appliance Repair in Salt Lake City, Utah. Providing appliance sales, installation and training in northern Utah, your technician can install and teach you everything you need to know about your new appliances.