When it comes to appliance maintenance, the most overlooked details are often the ones that lead to the biggest problems. While many homeowners focus on keeping things clean on the surface, a few simple practices can go a long way toward preventing breakdowns and improving efficiency. 1. Skip your oven’s self-cleaning feature. Using the self-cleaning cycle on your oven might sound like a time-saver, but it can actually cause major damage. These cycles reach extremely high temperatures, which can overheat internal components and lead to melted wiring, burnt-out parts or even a locked oven door. Instead, stick to the classic approach: Spray an oven cleaning product on a cloth and manually wipe down the interior. For stovetops, avoid using excessive water—moisture can seep into the electronics or burners and cause short circuits. 2. Don’t rely on your dishwasher to handle food scraps. Many modern dishwashers advertise that they can clean heavily soiled plates, but in practice, leftover food often clogs the filter and pump, leading to poor performance and breakdowns. A quick pre-wash (scraping off large food particles) can make a big difference. You should also run a cycle with a half cup of white vinegar every three to four months—this will flush out buildup in the hoses and internal components. 3. Don’t overload your washing machine. Overloading your washer, especially with heavy items like blankets and rugs, can cause serious damage to the drum bearings. Stick to regular-sized loads and take heavy items to a laundromat. Also, if you have a front-load washing machine, keep the door open after each cycle to prevent mold and odor buildup in the gasket. Wipe down the door seal every month to keep it clean and flexible.

3 Underrated Appliance Maintenance Practices

By Alexander Rosov Owner of Zuta Appliance Repair Diamond Certified Expert Contributor