Proper operation of your appliances can help extend their life-cycles and help the environment! Appliances do require some maintenance to help them run efficiently. The best way to operate any appliance is by following the manufacturer’s instructions. But here are a few tips:

Dishwasher: Wash full loads when possible and air-dry the dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s heater. Make sure that everything you wash is dishwasher safe. All plastics should be placed on the top rack to avoid melting, which can damage the dishwasher and cause a fire hazard. Prior to running your dishwasher, make sure the garbage disposer is clear so that the dishwasher will drain properly.

Garbage Disposer: Do not overload the disposer. Run water while the disposer is in operation and for a few second afterwards. Also avoid grinding fibrous foods like potato peels, rice, and pasta. Never  grind bones, glass, rubber, plastic, or metal.

Washing Machine: Wash full loads but do not overload. Try washing with cold water whenever possible so that your water heater does not have to work as hard.Avoid putting too much detergent in the machine.

Dryer: Dry full loads and avoid overloading. Clean the lint filter in the machine after every load. Try to dry light and heavy items separately because they dry at different speeds. If you have a lint trap at the end of  the flexible aluminum ducting, make sure that it is at least half way filled with water before every load.

Heating and Air Conditioning: Check your air filter at least once per month. If it is dirty, let us know and we will replace it. A dirty air filter will not allow the unit to work efficiently and also will greatly reduce its life cycle.

Range/Oven: Most of our ovens have self-cleaning options. Self-cleaning ovens use very high temperatures to burn stains and splatters to a powder for easy wiping. Most oven cleaners and abrasives should not be used in self-cleaning ovens. The cooktop should be cleaned after every use because once stains and splatters are reheated, they become extremely difficult to remove.

Microwave: Only use microwave-safe containers. Never place metal or aluminum foil in a microwave. Your microwave is equipped with a recirculating ventilation hood that filters grease particles from cooking on the range. This grease filter is located on the underside of the microwave and should be cleaned monthly with soap and water.