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Most houses are equipped with a variety of appliances that make it easier and more efficient for us to complete our everyday tasks. Freezers and refrigerators store food, stoves and ovens make it possible to cook that food, and appliances like dishwashers and garbage disposals help with cleanup. In return, we clean and maintain these appliances to keep them in tip-top shape. Many of us, however, have bad habits that may be damaging our appliances.
These bad habits we perpetuate are unintentional. They’re things we do when we’re in a rush or tired, and not thinking about the negative impact our behavior can have on control boards, gaskets, and other appliance components. To make sure they’ll be going strong when you need them, steer clear of these routines that may be killing your appliances, then make an effort to change your problematic practices.
1. Using Hot Water in Your Garbage Disposal
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It may seem counterintuitive, but hot water should not be used for cleaning kitchen scraps from the sink. When running the garbage disposal to grind up food, use cold water instead. Hot water melts grease and fat, which only leads to clogged garbage disposal drains and mechanical damage.
RELATED:9 Tips for Keeping Your Garbage Disposal in Top Shape
2. Leaving Coins in Your Pockets
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Check all your pockets for bills and coins carefully before putting pants in the washer. Loose coins can damage the drum and may work themselves into nooks and crannies, causing a jam—and an expensive repair.
RELATED: 15 Laundry Mistakes You’re Probably Making
3. Overfilling the Freezer
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It’s true that a full freezer works more efficiently than an empty one, but there can be too much of a good thing. Overfilling the freezer can block air vents, restrict the flow of cold air, and overtax your refrigerator’s condenser, which could lead to a burnout.
RELATED: 10 Unexpected Things to Keep in Your Freezer
4. Overloading the Washing Machine
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It’s tempting to stuff the washing machine to the brim when the laundry piles up, but don’t. An overloaded washer puts undue stress on the bearings, throws the drum out of alignment, and can lead to a washing machine repair call.
RELATED: Washing Machine Settings 101: Become a Laundry Ninja
