Someone removing lint from their dryer shows one essential maintenance task you need to do for your major home appliances.

As a homeowner, you have a lot to consider when taking care of your home. Unexpected expenses can arise at any time, and repairs for major home appliances can take a major toll on your wallet. Luckily, regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your appliances and improve their energy efficiency. Follow this quick guide on how to maintain five key appliances to keep them running for years to come:

How to maintain your water heater

  1. Flush the tank. Over time, sediment can accumulate in your water heater, leading to inefficiencies and damage. To prevent this, flush your water heater at least once a year. Start by turning off the power supply (for electric heaters) or the gas (for gas heaters). Stop the water supply, connect a garden hose to the drain valve, place the other end in a bucket or drain, restart the water, and open the valve to let the water out.
  2. Check the anode rod. The anode rod is a crucial part of your water heater and prevents rust and corrosion. Inspect it every three to five years and replace it if more than 50% of it is corroded. This simple check can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater.

How to maintain your water softener

  1. Inspect the brine tank. A water softener uses salt to remove hard minerals from your tap water. Try to check the brine tank once a month and replenish the salt if it’s low. Without proper salt levels, the softener can’t function properly, which can cause hard water issues — like limescale buildup in your pipes.
  2. Clean the resin bed. Add a cleaning solution specifically designed for water softeners to your resin bed at least once a year. This helps remove any buildup of minerals and ensures your softener continues to work effectively.

How to maintain your furnace

  1. Change the air filter. One of the simplest, yet most critical, maintenance tasks for your furnace is changing the air filter regularly — ideally every one to three months during the cooler seasons. A clogged filter restricts airflow, so the furnace must work harder, leading to higher energy bills, poor air quality, and potential breakdowns.
  2. Book an annual professional inspection. Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up at least once a year before the weather gets cold and it’s time to turn on your furnace. A technician can clean critical components, check for gas leaks, and make sure the furnace is operating safely and efficiently (which can also help reduce your risk of a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning!).

Your major home appliances can surprise you with a major expense if they need to be replaced or repaired. Make sure you regularly inspect your furnace, water softener, and water heater to keep them in working order.

How to maintain your air conditioner

  1. Clean the condenser coils. Dirt and debris can build up on your air conditioner’s condenser coils, which reduces efficiency. To clean them, turn off the unit and gently remove any debris. Use a soft brush to clean the coils and consider using a commercial coil cleaner for stubborn buildup.
  2. Check the drain line. A clogged drain line can lead to water damage and mould growth. Periodically check the drain line for blockages and if there seems to be an obstruction, use a wet/dry vacuum to help remove it.

How to maintain your washing machine

  1. Clean the drum and detergent dispenser. Over time, detergent residue can build up in your washing machine, leading to odors and blockages. Run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar every few months to clean the drum. Don’t forget to clean the detergent dispenser and any removable components.
  2. Inspect the hoses and connections. Check your washing machine’s hoses for signs of wear or cracks and make sure the connections are tight and secure to avoid any leaks during operation. Try to replace the hoses every three to five years to stay ahead of cracking and prevent water damage.

By incorporating these basic maintenance tasks into your routine, you can boost the performance of your major home appliances and save more money in the long run! For more ideas on how to keep your home in tip-top shape, check out this comprehensive home maintenance checklist.

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