Major Appliance Care & Maintenance

While appliances make our lives much easier, they also pose significant risks if not maintained properly. Here are some helpful maintenance tips and replacement recommendations to ensure the longevity of your major appliances.

A/C Problems? Check Your Condensate Line 

When you see water running from the area of your 
furnace and air conditioner, chances are there is a
clog in your condensate line.

When your air conditioner is operating correctly, the temperature difference causes moisture to accumulate on the coil. That moisture has to drain away from the unit and condensate line is what takes the water to the outside of your home.

In a perfect world the water would be completely clean and flow freely through the condensate line forever. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case. The water can contain algae, dust, and other debris that will clog the line. Removing the clog is a simple procedure and is usually a part of the seasonal service you receive from your HVAC contractor.

Replace Washing Machine Hoses Every 5 Years to Avoid Disaster

The washer supply and discharge hoses are often overlooked, but they are all too common culprits of water damage.  These hoses usually fail at a specific place – the coupling.  Standard hose couplings are rolled and stamped from thin sheets of copper, inserted into the hose ends and then crimped. Over time, flowing water polishes the metal coupling edges to a razor sharp edge. Those edges then cut the hose inside and outside where it bends at either end. If it has been more than 5 years, you are gambling!  You don’t want to wait until water shoots out the sides to find out. If it 
has been more than 5 years, go ahead and replace the washing 
machine hoses while everything is dry. While you’re changing 
out the washer supply hoses, install a new discharge hose, too.

Have Your Dryer Vent Cleaned Annually

Lint and other debris can build up in your dryer hose and vent duct, reducing air flow, backing up exhaust gases and eventually creating a fire. These hazards can be avoided by thoroughly inspecting and cleaning your dryer vent every year. Not only are you reducing the risk of fire, you’re also putting money back into your wallet by improving the dryer’s efficiency.  

Signs of a Blocked Dryer Vent

·        Lengthy drying times.

·        Clothes are hotter than normal at the end of the dry cycle.

·        Dryer deactivation due to high temperatures

·        Increased heat and humidity in the area of the dryer.

·        Flapper on vent hood does not open when dryer is on.