Microwaves do have a weight limit, so check the manual.
Unless you have a specialized, powerful blender, you should add enough liquid so that the blades don't struggle to operate. This can damage the motor over time.
This sounds like common sense, but there's more to it. Leftover food particles can create hot spots and damage your appliance.
Do so on a weekly basis if you use the oven often. This is important, as crumbs and other particles can burn and become a fire hazard.
Clean your microwave's vents. This is particularly important if your microwave is placed close to the stove, as it becomes more susceptible to be splattered with grease from pans.
Doing so can actually cause it to overheat.
Blocking vents and grills is not a good idea, so keep your microwave clutter free.
Most dishwashers have a specific basket for cutlery. Using it will avoid cutlery accidentally falling onto the bottom and damaging the dishwasher's rotating parts.
Always. Some materials, such as metal, can actually damage your microwave.
This will help remove extra food residue from your dishes, extending the life of your dishwasher.
Regular dishwashing soap will create too much foam, which can damage the appliance.
Do so before placing them in the dishwasher. Otherwise they can clog the filter.
Avoiding dishes touching each other allows water to flow better, resulting in a deeper clean.
While most modern freezers don't need to be defrosted regularly, it's a good idea to do so occasionally to clean it.
Ensure everything gets cooked by avoiding overfilling your slow cooker.
This will prevent limescale and will improve your dishwasher's lifespan.
If you believe your fridge might have been tilted, let it rest for about four to six hours before you turn it on. This will allow for the compressor oil to stabilize.
This is the correct way to load the dishwasher. This will prevent your dishwasher from getting waterlogged.
The coils on the back of your fridge accumulate dust and should be cleaned often. This allows the fridge to release heat in a more efficient manner. Just make sure you unplug it beforehand!
Run it in the hottest cycle and get rid of limescale by adding vinegar, lemon juice, or a specific descaling agent.
It can get dirty and develop mold, so it's always good to keep it nice and clean.
These have specific ingredients that will not form excessive foam, like regular soap does.
Yes, this includes children! Heavy objects can bend the metal and affect the drum.
This used to be a no-no, but while doing so won't damage modern fridges, it can affect cooling efficiency (i.e. you will waste more power). So, let your food cool off for a bit before putting it in the fridge.
Coins spinning around in the washing machine is not great news for the drum!
Microwaves do have a lifespan (approximately seven years), so if you want to make sure yours lasts, avoid microwaving food for longer than necessary.
Otherwise the compressor oil in your fridge might leak out.
A surge protector is a must-have if you want to guard your appliances from power surges.
Remove the load when it's done. This will extend the life of the drum.
Can you imagine your life without a fridge, washing machine, or even a microwave? Yes, we take for granted many of our home appliances, but they're essential to us, so we should learn how to take good care of them. In this gallery, you'll find a number of ways you can extend the life of your home appliances, so you can avoid expensive repairs or having to buy new ones entirely!
Click through and discover how to extend the life of your household appliances today.
How to extend the life of your home appliances
From fridges to washing machines
LIFESTYLE Tips
Can you imagine your life without a fridge, washing machine, or even a microwave? Yes, we take for granted many of our home appliances, but they're essential to us, so we should learn how to take good care of them. In this gallery, you'll find a number of ways you can extend the life of your home appliances, so you can avoid expensive repairs or having to buy new ones entirely!
Click through and discover how to extend the life of your household appliances today.