Christmas News
Will your appliance survive the Christmas rush?
How to spot potential issues before they dampen your festive cheer
By Matt Ayres, Appliance expert at
Adobe
The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s a time when your appliances will be busier than ever. Whether it’s preparing festive meals or tackling the post-celebration cleanup, the last thing you want is for something to break during the
holiday hustle.
To help you get ready for the busy season, here are my top tips for keeping your appliances in top shape and identifying potential problems before they arise.
RDO
#1. Offensive ovens
If your oven struggles to maintain a steady temperature and is producing unevenly cooked meals, it’s a clear sign that it may need professional servicing. Similarly, if your oven takes longer to cook meals or fails to reach a desired temperature, it’s worth investigating further.
You should also keep an ear out for unusual noises from your oven, like buzzing or rattling, which may signal loose or faulty components.
Unpleasant odours or unexpected smoke coming from the oven, especially if unrelated to food spills, are serious warning signs. These may result from burnt-out heating elements or faulty wiring, both of which can pose safety risks and signal a new oven might be on the horizon.
#2. Dishwasher disasters
Common dishwasher issues during the holiday season include it not filling properly, draining while it’s filling, or failing to drain at the end of a cycle. These problems often stem from a leak in the water supply lines, a malfunctioning drain valve arm, or damage to the drive belt or hose.
If your dishwasher’s cycles are unusually long or your dishes aren’t coming out clean, it may signal a problem with the appliance’s timer or thermostat. A technician can diagnose and address these issues to help restore your machine.
Dirty dishes can also result from clogged filters. Cleaning the fine particle filter and water inlet filter is often a quick fix that can improve performance and prevent further issues.
Addressing these warning signs early means you can ensure your dishwasher stays in top shape and no one ends up on the dreaded washing-up duty come Christmas Day.
RDO
#3. Microwave migraines
If you notice a burning smell or smoke coming from your microwave, it’s a clear warning that something is wrong. This could be as simple as leftover food splatters or as serious as an electrical or wiring problem. In either case, it’s essential to unplug your microwave immediately and consult a professional if the issue seems severe. Ignoring it could lead to a fire hazard.
Neglecting to clean food splatters can also damage your microwave over time. These residues can harden, eventually burning the interior walls and shortening the appliance’s lifespan. To keep your microwave in good condition, wipe it down daily with a warm cloth.
If your microwave is taking longer to heat food, you can test its power by placing a cup of water inside and running it for two minutes. If the water isn’t steaming hot afterwards, there could be a failing magnetron or circuit board, which requires professional repair or a new unit.
#4. Freezer fails
If your freezer is starting to let food spoil faster than expected, it’s a clear sign it needs some attention. One common culprit is an overpacked freezer. While it’s tempting to load up on festive goodies, overcrowding blocks the airflow needed to keep everything cold.
Start by locating the freezer’s fan and check it’s not obstructed. You may need to rearrange items to give the fan space to circulate air properly. Additionally, check for ice buildup that might be interfering with its movement. If there’s a significant amount of ice on the walls or back panel, resist the urge to chip it away with a utensil, as this could puncture pipes or damage the interior lining, leading to leaks.
Unusual noises from your freezer can also signal trouble. A loud hum might point to issues with the compressor, which drives the refrigerant through the system. Another possible cause is the evaporator tray shifting out of place. Addressing these concerns early can help your freezer perform smoothly throughout the busy holiday season.
Matt Ayres, Appliance Expert
