Wahing Machine Tips (Part 2)

5. Use the right amount of detergent

Don't listen to the detergent packaging, follow the washing machine's manufacturer's manual. If you have soft water, you may also want to reduce the amount of soap you use.

6. Keep it clean!

Residue can build up in the machine. Clean the inside once a month to prevent residue buildup.

7. Clean the dispensers

If you have a dispenser for your soap or softeners, clean that out once a month as well. Build up here can cause a loss of function, so make sure it stays clean as a whistle!

8. Squeaky clean!

Detergent can spill on the outsides and get in cracks that can cause problems with internal functions. If there is a spill, clean it up!

9. Rust?

If paint has chipped off, repair the paint job immediately. Otherwise your machine can start to rust!

Wahing Machine Tips (Part 1)

1. Inspect your Hoses
The connections from the hoses to the machine can show signs of weakness, and should be checked a couple times a year. Any cracks or bulges indicate that you should replace the hoses. Most manufacturers recommend you replace the hoses every 5 years.

2. Prevent Flooding
If your machine floods, you want to minimize or prevent water damage. A water shutoff system, which prevents water flow when a malfunction is detected, is a great addition to your machine. Another great one is an overflow pan, which catches any dripping or flooding water.

3. Don't Overload
Loading your machine at the proper limit is essential to preventing any malfunctions.

4. Keep it level
If your machine is on a slant or all 4 legs are not on the floor, it could cause problems and wear out your machine quickly. Take steps to make sure your machine is properly positioned.

Fridge Maintenance Tips

1. Check the Seals
A seal that doesn't seal properly, you'll be spending more money cooling what's inside. If its not sealing properly, make sure that food isn't stuck in it. If there's no food, try the dollar-bill test: close the door with the bill in the door so that its half in/half out. If the dollar slips out, call the pro's.

2. Clean Coils
If the condenser coils are covered in gunk and dust, the fridge wont cool properly. Unplug the fridge and clean them at least twice a year.

3. Is the Price Right?
Make sure your fridge is set to the recommended temperature: 37 degrees for fridge and the freezer at 0 degrees.

4. Fill 'er up!
Fridges are made to work properly with food in them. If you eat out most of the time, just throw some jugs of water in there.

5. Be a Boy Scout: Be Prepared
If the power goes out, don't open it. Doing so will let the cold air out and they wont be able to get cold again, potentially ruining the food inside.

Still Need a New Year's Resolution? Check Out This Checklist!

Cleaning and checking our appliances for problems can be a difficult thing to remember, but it is very important to do. If you're still looking for a New Year's resolution, doing that simple maintenance is a great idea! Here is a chart we made to help you remember to do it. Print it off and put it somewhere you'll be able to see it every could months!

Chore	Spring	Summer	Fall	Winter
Clean and check washer and dryer
Clean and check hose connections on washer and dryer
Clean and check dishwasher for leaks
Clean and check fridge for leaks
Check water heater for leaks
Clean and check seal on oven