Your dryer can be a hazard, maintain it!
Clothes dryers go hand-in-hand with washers, but dryers have different maintenance needs. You know you should empty the lint trap after every load, but there are several other things you should do to keep your dryer going strong. Keep the exhaust vent clean. Both Wright and Huntley stress that it’s important to make sure your dryer’s exhaust vent is clean. Wright recommends cleaning it at least once per year. Be sure to check the outside air vent, too. Make sure the dryer is
Wash the washer
Top-loading washers require little if any home maintenance, according to Huntley, but front-loading washers need more care. Leave the door open. Whirlpool Institute of Fabric Science expert Tremitchell Wright says it’s a good idea to leave your washer door open after you’ve completed a load of laundry. This will allow air to circulate in the washer, rather than trapping in moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew problems. Wright also recommends using a cleaner designed fo
Dishwasher Love
The job of a dishwasher is to clean and dispose of the food residue you leave on your dishes. It’s a dirty job, indeed. But keeping your dishwasher clean is only part of your plan of action to keep it running at its best. Fix the filter. Most new dishwashers use a filter system that traps food particles during the wash cycle. Ottusch says dishwashers that use a filter system are quieter and more energy efficient than older dishwashers that use a chopper system. Check and clea
Ice ice baby
Don’t forget the ice dispenser. If your refrigerator has a built-in ice/water dispenser, you’ll need to clean that, too. The drip tray should be removed and cleaned at least every two to three months, Huntley says. He also recommends cleaning the ice bucket assembly once a month so your ice doesn’t pick up refrigerator odors. The dispenser’s water filter should be replaced at least every six months.
Warm up to your fridge.
REFRIGERATORS The best way to maintain your refrigerator is simply to keep it clean, inside and out. Clean under and behind your refrigerator regularly. Whirlpool Institute of Kitchen Science expert Lucinda Ottusch says it’s important to remove and clean the refrigerator’s base grill often to improve air flow to the appliance’s components. Ryan Huntley, of RepairClinic.com, says that the coils at the bottom or behind your refrigerator need regular cleaning so the coils can ef
