*..... if rubber washing machine fill hoses break, most insurance companies do not cover water damage unless the hoses were purchased within the last 2 years. Ask to upgrade to braided stainless steel hoses.
*..... dryer lint screens need to be washed in soap and water twice a year to ensure proper air flow.
*..... dryer exhaust screens (outside vent) need to be cleaned regularly. They are a popular site for bird and small animal nests.
*..... vinegar added to your dishwasher can prevent calcium build up and expensive repairs. Start the dishwasher, when the water starts to come in, open the door and add 4 litres of vinegar. Let sit for 24 hrs. Close the door and let the dishwasher finish it's cycle. Recommended every 6 months. May also be used on clothes washers and coffee makers.
*.....'HE' laundry soap must be used on front load washing machines or expensive repairs and unpleasant odors may occur.
*.....turning your kettle spout away from the electronic clock on your stove can prevent serious damage from direct contact with steam.
*....turning on the hot water tap in the sink next to the dishwasher pre-heats the water going into the dishwasher. Thia will save energy and help clean the dishes better.
*.... you only need a quarter of the soap recommended on the detergent package in dish washers and washing machines.
*....dishwashers incorrectly loaded can cause a leak. Water can be deflected off a misplaced dish under the seal on the door.
*....using the self-clean feature on ranges with the digital electronic clock can cause control board malfunction.
*....if you line the bottom of the oven with tinfoil, be sure it doesn't touch the element as it will burn it out prematurely. Formed tinfoil trays from the grocery store are recommended.
*....water filters in refrigerators should be changed every six months.
*....covering a middle shelf in an oven or refrigerator can restrict the air flow causing a malfunction.
*....loading heavy items, like soda bottles etc. on the door shelves of the refrigerator can cause hinge and door seal malfunctions.
*....refrigerators should not be turned on their side. The oil in the compressor will spill into the cooling lines contaminating them.
*....it takes 24 hours for any temperature adjustments to take effect when adjusting your refrigerator.
Dirty dryers and venting are the # 1 cause of house fires.
Cleaning the lint trap and vent pipe is not enough.
Have your dryer professionally cleaned today!
Call Al's Appliance Repair 519-824-8828
Complete dryer cleaning $124.99 + hst Limited vent replacement and cleaning available. Ask about upgrading to solid vent pipe. Offer applies to Guelph residents only. Additional charges for vents longer than 10 feet.
Buying New Appliances?
_Before you buy:
-Consider the delivery cost and the removal cost of your old appliance.
-Consider any installation fees.
-Does it need any special hookup alterations; wiring, venting, plumbing, natural gas connection etc.?
-Will it fit in the chosen location?
Once you've decided to buy:
-Do your homework. Buy a brand you either know, or is manufactured by a company you trust.
-When you buy your new appliance, make sure the company you choose can provide warranty service for you.
-Ask your repairman for his recommendation. Find out if he services the model you are looking at. Once the warranty expires, you may want to return to your local repairman who is generally less expensive.
-Carefully examine any extended warranty that is offered.
-Watch for hidden warranty clauses.
-Make arrangements to have your old appliance removed.
-Make sure parts are available for your appliance after the warranty.
-Does it meet Canadian standards. Some appliances purchased across the border are not CSA approved.
_The above information is my opinion and is intended as a guideline only.