There’s nothing worse than having your appliances break down on you. But it is inevitable — some appliances are more prone to breaking than others. Appliances may break down because of old age, or perhaps the brand you bought from is not as reliable as they claim to be. In this article, we’ll go over the top ten most common appliances that easily break so that you can be prepared for when they do.
1. Washing Machines
Washing machines are one of the most commonly used appliances in the home. They see a lot of wear and tear on a daily basis, and as a result, they are prone to breaking down. Why do washers break so often? It is mainly because of how they operate. Washing machines commonly interact with water, and numerous spin cycles may be brutal, especially with heavier loads.
One of the most common problems with washing machines is that the door seal leaks, causing water to leak onto the floor. This can be a significant problem if not dealt with quickly, as it can cause severe water damage to your home. Other issues may also involve regular overloading and failing to practice regular maintenance schedules.
To extend the lifespan of your washing machine, you should:
- Keep your wash loads to a reasonable amount
- Put your washing machine in a good location
- Don’t use prohibited items in your washing machine
- Maintain your washing machine as required by the manufacturer
2. Dryers
Dryers are another commonly used appliance in the home that sees a lot of wear and tear. They work by using heat to remove moisture from clothing, and over time, this can cause parts of the dryer to break down.
One of the most common problems with dryers is that they stop heating correctly. A lint build-up can cause this in the dryer vent, which prevents heat from escaping. As a result, your clothes may take longer to dry or come out damp.
Other issues may include a noisy dryer, which loose parts inside the machine may cause. Also, clothes may become wrinkled if the drum isn’t rotating properly.
If you want your dryer to work well for a long time, you should stay on top of regular maintenance schedules. To extend the lifespan of your dryer, you should:
- Unclog the lint trap and vents
- Clean the lint screen after every load
- Don’t overload the dryer
- Schedule deep cleaning at least once a year
Also read: How to Repair A Refrigerator: Troubleshooting & Repair
3. Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals also see a lot of wear and tear daily. Over time, this can cause parts of the disposal to break down.
One of the most common problems with garbage disposals is that they stop working properly. This can be caused by several things, such as a clog in the disposal or a problem with the motor. Other issues can include noisy disposal due to the loose parts inside the machine. Also, food may become stuck in the disposal.
If you want your garbage disposal to work well for a long time, you should stay on top of regular maintenance schedules. To extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal, you should:
- Run cold water through the disposal for 30 seconds before and after use
- Avoid putting hard-to-grind items like chicken bones or fruit pits down the drain
- Use citrus rinds or ice cubes to sharpen the blades
- Grind up biodegradable items such as coffee grounds or eggshells to keep the drains clear
4. Refrigerators
When most appliances are not working correctly, homeowners usually encounter an inconvenience. But when the refrigerator breaks down, the situation can only be described as a disaster. If you fail to repair a broken fridge, the food inside will spoil, and you won’t have the option to keep other food items for a long time.
Some of the most common issues refrigerators face are ice maker malfunctions, ice dispenser issues, water leakage, cooling problems, fan motor concerns, and refrigerators failing to cool properly.
On average, refrigerators will call for replacements after eight to ten years of use. However, you may extend its lifespan by following these tips:
- Keep your refrigerator stocked
- Make sure you keep the door closed after opening your fridge
- Do not put hot dishes in your refrigerator
- Clean your fridge’s condenser coil every six months
5. Dishwashers
Have you ever noticed your dishes still unclean after a wash cycle? If the dishes don’t get cleaned as quickly as they used to, it’s a sign of underlying problems. Because your dishwasher is often exposed to moisture, it is more likely to fail than other appliances. The most common problems with dishwashers include leaks, which can cause water damage to your home, and broken spray arms, which can prevent your dishes from getting clean. If you notice any problems with your dishwasher, it’s essential to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you maintain your dishwasher properly, you can have it working for a decade and a few more years. Here are some tips that can help you extend its lifespan:
- Run the dishwasher often
- Use vinegar or a special detergent to keep the dishwasher clean
- Run the dishwasher empty at least once a month for some extra cleaning
6. Microwave Ovens
One of the most important appliances in any kitchen is the microwave oven. It allows you to heat food quickly and easily, and it’s a great way to cook meals without having to use a lot of energy.
However, microwave ovens can break down over time, and when they do, it can be a major inconvenience. The most common problems with microwave ovens include faulty door seals, which can cause leaks, and broken turntables, which can prevent your food from cooking evenly.
If you notice any problems with your microwave oven, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. With proper care and maintenance, you can extend its lifespan and keep it working properly for many years. Here are some tips that can help:
- Use only cookware that is approved for use in microwaves
- Avoid overloading the microwaves
- Clean the inside of the microwaves regularly with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild detergent
- Be careful not to overload the circuit breaker when using multiple appliances at once
Final Thoughts
Don’t let appliance breakdowns leave you stressed and scrambling. If you’re struggling with some appliance issues, call the experts for professional repairs. Here at Asurion, we provide appliance repairs in the California Riverside area. Give us a call today to book a repair service, and let our expert technicians fix your problems right away!
Also read: 7 DIY Roof Repair Tips For Handy Homeowners
