Whether most homeowners want to face it or not, home appliances are the unsung heroes of our everyday lives. The washing machine that saves you from laundromat nightmares. The fridge that keeps your snacks cool and your leftovers thriving. The dishwasher that makes you feel like royalty after a spaghetti night. However, as much as they serve us faithfully, we tend to forget they need a little maintenance to keep running smoothly. Luckily, with a few simple hacks, you can extend the life of your appliances, save money, and keep your home running like a well-oiled machine. Let’s dive into it.

Clean your dryer lint trap

We all know we should clean the lint trap after every load, and yet, many of us forget, or worse, we pretend not to see it. However, there’s the bonus tip that says every month or so, give that lint trap a deep clean with soap and water. Residue from dryer sheets and fabric softeners can clog up the screen. Also, vacuum around the lint trap area and, if you're feeling bold, inside the exhaust hose, but turn the dryer off first. Built-up lint is a fire hazard, and a clean dryer dries clothes faster. Win-win!

Your refrigerator coils want some attention, too

This one’s a hidden gem because, well, most people don’t even know their fridge has coils. Refrigerator condenser coils, usually on the back or bottom of the unit, gather dust like it’s their full-time job. When they get clogged, your fridge works harder, uses more energy, and shortens its life span. Use a coil brush or your vacuum’s nozzle attachment every six months to clear away that fuzzy mess. It would feel oddly satisfying like giving your fridge a facial. If you’ve got a high-tech model and aren't sure what you’re doing, a quick search for professional Samsung refrigerator service near me can help you find a pro to safely handle the cleanup and keep things running smoothly.

Opt for a dishwasher spa day

Sad but true, your dishwasher may clean all your dishes, but it doesn’t clean itself. Food gunk, soap scum, and minerals build up over time, but here’s an easy tips that involves using vinegar and baking soda. Once a month, toss a cup of white vinegar into the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a hot cycle. After that, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom and run a short hot cycle again.

Steam-clean the microwave

Instead of scrubbing the inside of your microwave like it owes you money, try filling a microwave-safe bowl with water and adding a few slices of lemon or a splash of vinegar. Microwave on high for five minutes. Let it sit for another few minutes to allow the steam to loosen grime. Once you carefully open it up, wipe everything down. 

Spruce up the oven

Before you reach for harsh chemicals or resign yourself to the smoky fate of baked-on oven grime, try one gentle combo. Mix baking soda, salt, and a little water into a thick paste. Smear it all over the inside of your oven, let it sit overnight, and wipe clean in the morning. No elbow grease needed. Do this before a holiday cooking spree, and your future self will thank you.

Keep the washer dry and descale

Washers are notorious for developing weird smells. However, there are nifty tips that can maximally extend the life of your washer. After every use, leave the door open (especially front-loaders) to let it dry out. Once a month, run an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to descale and deodorise. And don’t forget the detergent drawer because it can harbour mould and build-up if you ignore it for too long.

Purify the air

Your air conditioner works overtime in summer, but if you never clean the filter, it’s basically wheezing behind the scenes. Taking meticulous care about your AC is a must, no matter if it's winter or summer. Clean or replace your filters every month during high-use seasons. Not only will your AC last longer, but it’ll also cool more efficiently and help you breathe easier and even help purify the air.

Final thoughts

Take these simple but effective maintenance tips to heart and put a reminder on your calendar if you have to. A few minutes of care and attention here and there, and your appliances will thank you with years of loyal service and fewer “uh-oh” moments.