1. Clean Refrigerator Condenser Coils Every 6 Months
Dust and pet hair accumulate on the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator, forcing the compressor to work harder and run hotter. This is one of the leading causes of premature compressor failure. Pull the fridge away from the wall, unplug it, and vacuum or brush the coils at least twice a year. If you have pets, do it quarterly.
2. Avoid Overloading Your Washing Machine
Cramming too many clothes into a single load puts excessive stress on the drum bearings, drive belt, and motor coupling. Over time, this leads to unbalanced spin cycles, loud banging noises, and expensive bearing replacements. Follow the manufacturer's load capacity guidelines and leave enough room for clothes to tumble freely.
3. Clean the Dishwasher Filter Monthly
Most modern dishwashers have a manual filter at the bottom of the tub that traps food debris. If you do not clean it regularly, water circulation suffers, dishes come out dirty, and the drain pump has to work harder. Remove the filter, rinse it under warm water, and use a soft brush to clear any buildup. Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar once a month to keep the interior fresh.
4. Clear the Dryer Lint Trap and Vent Duct
Cleaning the lint screen before every load is essential, but you should also inspect and clean the full vent duct at least once a year. A clogged dryer vent restricts airflow, causes the dryer to overheat, and is a leading cause of household fires. Disconnect the duct from the back of the dryer, use a vent brush or vacuum to remove lint buildup, and check the exterior vent flap for obstructions.
5. Use the Right Detergent for High-Efficiency Machines
High-efficiency (HE) washers and dishwashers are designed for low-sudsing detergent. Using regular detergent creates excess suds that can overflow, leave residue on internal components, and cause error codes. Always look for the HE symbol on your detergent and use the recommended amount, not more.
6. Inspect and Replace Washing Machine Hoses
Rubber washing machine supply hoses degrade over time and can burst without warning, causing significant water damage. Replace standard rubber hoses with braided stainless steel hoses, which are far more durable and burst-resistant. Check for bulges, cracks, or moisture around the connections every few months.
7. Keep Oven and Range Surfaces Clean
Grease and food spills that bake onto burner grates, igniters, and oven sensors can interfere with proper operation and cause ignition problems or uneven heating. Wipe up spills promptly, clean burner ports with a pin or needle if gas flames appear uneven, and avoid using the self-clean cycle excessively, as the extreme heat can damage electronic control boards and door lock mechanisms.
8. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
Just like your car needs an oil change, your appliances benefit from a periodic professional checkup. A trained technician can spot worn belts, leaking seals, loose electrical connections, and early signs of component failure before they become major breakdowns. Investing in a maintenance visit once a year can save you hundreds in emergency repair costs down the road. Contact SoCal Appliance Repair Pro to schedule a maintenance appointment for your home.