Spooky Home Stories: What’s Really Behind “Haunted” Appliances

Modern technology, old wiring, and the mysteries of everyday appliances

Courtesy of Mehmet Suat Gunerli

This time of year is all about the spooks and scares, tricks and treats, but you don’t want that in your home. There’s nothing worse than having your home sound, smell or act like it’s haunted and you have no idea why or how to fix it.

Join us this week for five spooky stories collected from across the internet of haunted homes, and what was really behind them.

The Haunted Microwave

It always starts on a quiet night. A cup of tea, a few quiet minutes to yourself — and then, the hum.
A woman sat in her kitchen after the rest of the house was quiet, scissors snipping away at her crafts. The house was still until the familiar whir of her microwave started up on its own. She hadn’t touched . When she tried to stop it, the buttons didn’t respond. Even opening the door didn’t help — the turntable kept spinning, the machine whirring like it was possessed. Eventually, she managed to stop it, heart pounding. But fifteen minutes later, it happened again — this time, her convection oven below joined in the chaos, flicking on by itself.

It’s easy to imagine something supernatural at play, but the truth was far less ghostly — and far more practical. In homes where the microwave is stacked over an oven, wiring issues between the two can sometimes cause strange “cross talk.” A short or surge in the shared circuit can make them behave unpredictably, even power themselves on.

This homeowner did exactly what she should have: she called an electrician to inspect the system. Nothing spooky, just a wiring fault waiting for the right moment to show itself. The moral? Flickering lights and misbehaving appliances don’t mean your house is haunted — they mean your wiring is crying for help.

Twice Cursed: A Washer’s Flooding Nightmare

Some horror stories strike once. This one came back for a sequel.

In Pennsylvania, a homeowner’s brand-new front-loading washer turned her laundry day into a disaster movie — twice. The first time, mid-cycle, the door burst open, sending thirty gallons of water gushing across the floor and down into the basement. Floors warped, drywall crumbled, carpet soaked — a total repair estimate near $24,000.

You’d think that kind of chaos would be a one-time nightmare. But after a technician “adjusted” a sensor and gave her the all-clear, the machine did it again a month later. The second flood finished what the first had started, and by then she didn’t need a repair — she needed an exorcism.

In the end, the manufacturer stepped in and replaced the washer. Her insurance covered the damage, and she got her peace of mind back. But this story is a reminder that modern appliances are powerful machines — and when one goes rogue, the damage can spread fast.

The lesson? Even a small leak can become catastrophic if ignored or brushed off. When your washer, dishwasher, or fridge acts up, don’t wait for “Flood No. 2.” Have a professional take a look right away — before your next load becomes a tidal wave.

The Smart Home That Wasn’t So Smart

Smart appliances are supposed to make life easier — until they develop a mind of their own. One homeowner learned this the hard way when her oven began turning itself on and off in the middle of the night. She swore it was haunted. After all, what else explains a glowing oven door in the dark?

The technician who arrived to “banish the spirit” found something even stranger: her smart oven had synced to a neighbor’s phone. A bugged software update had linked the devices across the network, giving the neighbor unintentional control. Each time they preheated their oven, hers came alive too.

It’s funny in hindsight — less so when you’re staring down a 400-degree oven you didn’t start. Technology may be convenient, but it also needs regular updates, resets, and safety checks. Keeping your connected appliances’ software current (and networks secure) is part of modern maintenance — not magic.

Courtesy of Mystic Art Design

So, next time your smart device seems to have a mind of its own, skip the salt circle and call your local technician.

The Haunted Dishwasher

There’s a reason dishwashers are such convincing horror-movie props: they hum, gurgle, and light up on their own schedule. One homeowner learned that firsthand when her GE dishwasher started running cycles unprompted. It powered itself on, occasionally opened the detergent door mid-wash, and sometimes refused to stop at all.

At first, it was almost funny — a “haunted” dishwasher. Until one night it started at 3 a.m. and refused to stop. That’s when she pulled the plug — literally.

Appliances don’t decide to work overtime without reason. In this case, it was likely a control board malfunction, a short in the touchpad or moisture intrusion from years of use. Dishwashers have sensitive circuitry, and even small condensation buildup can corrode connectors over time.

The fix is often simple — replacement of a faulty board — but the moral sticks: when your dishwasher acts possessed, it’s probably just asking for a new brain, not an exorcist.

It Came from the Dryer

Of all the tales of appliance horror, this one is the stuff of nightmares. Picture this: a repair technician opens a dryer and finds the source of a foul, acrid smell — a snake, tangled in the blower wheel. Sometimes alive. Sometimes… not.

It’s the kind of discovery that sticks with you, and for the unlucky homeowners, it’s unforgettable.

Dryer vents are cozy, warm, and dark — perfect nesting spots for critters seeking shelter. Over time, lint buildup and loose vent covers make them easy to access. The result? A dryer that smells like something crawled in and never left.

The real fright here isn’t the wildlife; it’s what could’ve happened if the vent stayed clogged. Obstructions not only invite pests but can spark fires from trapped heat. Annual vent cleanings keep your dryer efficient, your home safe, and your laundry day blissfully snake-free.

Turns out, some monsters aren’t imaginary — they’re just hiding in the vent behind your dryer.

So, when things go bump in the night, strange wails stalk your halls or you’re positive your appliances are haunted, don’t shout for the Ghostbusters, just yet.
Instead give Appliance Rescue Service a call first. Our technicians will find the source of the problem and figure out whether you’re dealing with a haunting or a malfunction.

Website

Courtesy of F. Hektor.

Call: (214) 599-0055

Is Your Home Haunted? Understanding Appliance Sounds Before They Cause Damage

A guide to the humming, clicking, and rattling noises your appliances make.

When Your Home Starts to Sound Haunted

Not all eerie noises come from ghosts. Sometimes, it’s your dishwasher groaning in the night—or the fridge humming in a way that makes you wonder if the house has a secret life of its own. For homeowners in the Dallas–Frisco area, comfort and quiet aren’t just luxuries—they’re a point of pride. A well-maintained home runs smoothly, quietly, and without the kind of surprises that make you jump at 2 a.m.

Imagine this: it’s 10:30 p.m., the kids are asleep, and a sudden clatter comes from the kitchen. Your mind races—ghost? Burglar? Or just your appliances doing their thing? Before you panic—or decide to ignore that sound—understanding what’s normal, what needs attention, and when to act is key to keeping your home both safe and serene.

Why Your Appliances Make Noise (and Why That’s Not Always Bad)

Modern appliances aren’t magical—they rely on motors, fans, pumps, compressors, and moving parts. All of these components naturally make some sound as they perform their work. A gentle hum, a brief click, or a soft whirring is typically nothing to worry about.

But there’s a difference between normal operational noises and warning signs. Grinding, banging, screeching, or rattling shouldn’t be ignored—they’re often your appliances’ way of signaling stress or wear. Research shows that addressing these early can extend appliance life by up to 30% and save homeowners hundreds in repair costs.

North Texas homes, with long summers and heavy laundry cycles, put extra strain on HVAC systems and washers. Paying attention early can prevent a mid-summer breakdown that leaves your home hot, stuffy, and frustrated.

The Fridge That Groans in the Night

Your refrigerator works around the clock, quietly keeping your food fresh. Most of the sounds it makes are normal:

• Light humming as the compressor runs.

• Soft pops as metal panels expand or contract.

• Gentle clicks from the water valve or ice maker refilling.

• Gurgling or bubbling, often from refrigerant moving through the coils or defrost water draining into the pan.
  
  
  

But sometimes the noises are trying to tell you something:

• Loud buzzing or humming that escalates can indicate the compressor is under stress, possibly from dirty coils or a door left slightly ajar. A constantly running compressor not only increases your energy bill but can shorten your fridge’s lifespan by up to 30%.

• Knocking or clicking may point to a failing start relay or a compressor struggling to start.

• Rattling could signal a loose drip pan, bent fan blade, or worn mounting bracket.
  
  
  
  

Picture this: it’s late on a Friday night, and your fridge hum turns into a persistent buzzing. You’re tempted to ignore it—but this is exactly the moment technicians say homeowners should check coils, doors, and interior components. Catching it early prevents costly compressor replacement and keeps your food safe.

The Dishwasher That Moans or Rattles

Dishwashers are designed to swish, hum, and pause mid-cycle, but certain noises can signal a problem.

• Grinding: Usually caused by debris stuck in the pump or impeller—anything from small bones to pits can jam the system.

• High-pitched squeal: Often indicates worn motor bearings, which can eventually fail.

• Thumping or banging: Water hammer from plumbing pressure changes or loose spray arms hitting the walls.
  
  
  

Imagine loading the dishwasher after dinner. You close the door, start the cycle, and hear a persistent grinding. It might be tempting to ignore it—but technicians see this noise as a common early warning sign of pump or motor issues. Removing debris from the filter is a simple DIY fix, but if the grinding continues, it’s time for professional attention. Addressing it early avoids a $400–$600 repair down the line.

The Washer and Dryer That Sound Possessed

Laundry machines create sounds that can be unsettling if you’re not familiar with them.

Washer:

• Normal: sloshing water, gentle spinning, and clicking as cycles change.

• Concerning: banging or thudding may mean an unbalanced load or worn shock absorbers. Grinding noises can indicate drum bearings failing, while constant knocking may point to suspension rods wearing out.
  
  

Dryer:

• Normal: soft thumps at startup and gentle tumbling.

• Concerning: screeching or squealing can signal belt or drum roller problems. Rattling may be loose vents or small items like coins trapped inside.
  
  

Scenario: You toss in a load on a Sunday morning. The washer’s spin cycle suddenly emits a low rumble that rises to a thud. Even after rebalancing, the noise persists. This is the kind of subtle signal experienced homeowners and technicians use to identify early wear before it escalates to a full breakdown.

The Oven That Pops, Clicks, or Hisses

Ovens have their own spooky soundtrack:

Courtesy of StockSnap

• Normal: clicking as the igniter sparks and soft pops as metal expands with heat.

• Concerning: repeated clicking may indicate a failing igniter or gas valve. Hissing when the oven isn’t heating could signal a gas leak—shut it off immediately. Metallic banging may come from expanding panels or a faulty fan.
  
  
  
  

Scenario: It’s 5 p.m., and the oven’s clicks turn into a staccato rhythm that doesn’t match the timer. In a busy North Texas kitchen, an oven that misfires is more than spooky—it’s unsafe. Recognizing these signs early ensures family safety and uninterrupted meal prep.

When It’s Time to Stop Guessing

Early detection prevents breakdowns and protects your investment. Strange noises may be harmless—but if you notice persistent or unusual sounds, trust your instincts. Catching problems early can extend appliance lifespan, save on costly repairs, and keep your home running smoothly.

Courtesy of Michal Jarmoluk

For years, Appliance Rescue Service has helped Dallas–Frisco homeowners maintain peace and quiet in kitchens, laundry rooms, and living spaces. Experienced technicians assess, diagnose, and repair appliances efficiently, turning late-night clatters back into the background hums you expect.

The Final Word: Silence Is Golden (and Safe)

Strange appliance noises aren’t spooky—they’re signals your home is giving you. Hums, clicks, and gentle swishes are normal. Grinding, screeching, or rattling? That’s when it’s time to act.

Preventative care—checking filters, clearing vents, and addressing unusual sounds promptly—keeps your appliances running smoothly. Before the holiday entertaining season hits, ensure your home is more cozy than creepy.

Courtesy of nightstalker206

If your home’s sounds have gone from gentle hums to horror-movie screeches, Appliance Rescue Service can help restore calm and quiet, giving you peace of mind all year long.

Website

Call Us: (214) 599-0055

Haunting Hazards: Appliances That Cause Fires

Keep your home, family, and investment safe with this expert-backed appliance safety guide.

It’s that time of year again. The nights grow longer, pumpkins flicker on doorsteps, and every whisper in the dark sends a shiver down your spine. You half-expect the floorboards to creak with ghosts. But before you blame specters, consider this: some of the scariest things in your house are humming and clicking right now, hiding in plain sight. This isn’t about phantom footsteps or whispering shadows. It’s about wires, motors, lint-filled vents, and components pushed past their limits. And sometimes, yes — these haunted appliances can start real fires. Let’s stroll through your home… slowly. These are the everyday appliances most likely to misbehave. Watch for them. Then prepare. Because even in a modern house, the supernatural doesn’t need to exist to get flames.

The Oven That Smolders in Silence

Your oven is supposed to cook food — not cook your wiring. Over time, grease and food debris that build up across the inside surfaces can ignite when temperatures climb during normal usage. Even a heating element or internal wire that has become worn or brittle might short out under load, especially in older units. The self-cleaning function, though designed to burn off residue, sometimes overheats parts, accelerating internal damage instead of curing it. To reduce this danger, clean spills, charred residues, and built-up grease regularly (always after the unit cools), and never leave the oven running when no one is home. If, after using it, you detect a strange smell or flicker of light behind the door glass, stop using the unit immediately and call a technician to inspect it.

The Stove That Becomes a Cauldron

Courtesy of William Hadley

Simmering sauce is one thing — but your stovetop can turn into a fire risk if you're not careful. Many home fires begin right at the stove, often from unattended cooking, oil splatters, or pans left too close to open flames. A stray drop of hot oil can leap off a pan, or a rag or piece of cookery paper too close to a burner can catch fire in seconds. The danger grows when you step away, distracted by guests, texts, or just thinking ahead. The rule is simple: stay in the kitchen while cooking. Keep everything flammable — towels, curtains, ingredient bottles — well away from the stovetop. Have a fire extinguisher in reach and know how to use it, and if grease does ignite, never toss water at it; smother it with a lid or baking soda.

The Dryer That Smells Like Smoke

Your laundry room may feel cozy, but if your dryer begins to stink of burning lint, alarm bells should ring. Dryer fires are among the most common types of appliance fires. That’s because the lint trap, internal vents, and area around the heating element are prime spots for lint to accumulate. When vents are clogged, heat has no escape, and components begin to overheat. The result can be ignition in a narrow crevice you never see. To guard against this, clean the lint trap each time you run the dryer. Vacuum lint from around the dryer and behind it often. Schedule a professional vent cleaning annually. And never try drying anything saturated with oily substances or chemical residues — that one load can be the one that sparks a disaster.

The Fridge That Overheats Behind Closed Doors

Courtesy of Stephane

Refrigerators and freezers feel safe — quiet, cold, dependable. But lurking inside that comfort can be silent dangers. Electrical wiring can fray, insulation may degrade, or component failures might cause overheating near compressors or motors. A light bulb left active when the door sticks or fails to close fully can also generate unexpected heat inside an otherwise cold cavity. Blocked airflow or dirty condenser coils force the compressor to work harder, producing more heat than it should. To avoid disaster, make sure condenser coils are dust-free, inspect cords for wear or cracks, and listen for buzzing or hums that seem out of place. At the first sign of burning plastic or anomalous heat, unplug the unit and call for a technician.

The Dishwasher That Conceals a Threat

Courtesy of LiudmilaB

Running your dishwasher while you sleep or run errands seems convenient — except that a hidden fault can turn it into a fire hazard. When a heating element shorts, when wiring gets brittle, or when a small leak allows water to reach electrical parts, sparks can develop in the dark, unnoticed. Even residual grease and stuck food bit inside filters and plumbing channels can heat up under a failing thermostat. The remedy is to operate your dishwasher while someone is home. Clean out filters and spray arms periodically to prevent buildup. During service calls, have hose connections and internal wiring inspected. That way, you won’t gamble your home’s safety on the quiet hum of a nightly cycle.

The Microwave That Turns Mischievous

Microwaves are ubiquitous — safe when used correctly, dangerous when pushed to the edge. A slip-up with metal foil or a stray spoon can cause internal sparks. Old wiring or worn components may arc under stress. And when food is overheated in non-microwave-safe containers, the internal circuits strain. That little pop or flash can quickly escalate. Use only microwave-safe dishes (no metal, no foil). At the first sign of a spark or crackle, unplug the unit immediately and discontinue use. If the problem recurs, bring in a technician to examine internal wiring and components.

The Space Heater That Creeps Too Close

Courtesy of Mircea Iancu

A space heater gives warmth and comfort — until it’s too close to flammable material. Draped sheets, furniture edges, curtains, or rug fibers all pose ignition risks when placed too near. A heater plugged into an extension cord or overloaded outlet compounds danger. Running a heater while you sleep or leave the house is just asking for trouble. Always maintain a buffer zone of at least three feet around space heaters. Plug them only into dedicated wall outlets (never into power strips or extension cords). And for safety, turn them off whenever you wake up or step out.

The Hidden Peril of Power Strips & Cords

Courtesy of Hucklebarry

You might start by plugging in one device, then another, then another — until an overloaded power strip becomes a ticking time bomb. Strips burdened with high-wattage appliances can overheat internally and spark. Running cords under rugs or behind heavy furniture wears insulation and traps heat. Frayed or damaged cords arc internally, igniting nearby material. Use surge protectors only for low-power electronics, never for major appliances. Keep cords visible, never pin them under rugs or furniture, and immediately replace any wire that shows wear, cracking, or exposed conductors.

When the Haunting Turns Real

A flicker in a hallway, a whiff of burning plastic, a breaker that trips again — those are not supernatural signs, they’re alarms your house is sounding. If you detect smoke or odd electrical hums, unplug the appliance (if it’s safe to do so) and shut the circuit off at the breaker. Don’t ever re-energize it, even just to “test.” Call a qualified electrician or appliance technician to assess the damage. Sometimes the fix is simple: cleaning vents, replacing wiring, or tightening connections. Other times, a full repair or replacement is necessary. The point is this: minor flaws can escalate fast. Don’t wait.

Don’t Let Your Home Become a Horror Show

You decorate your yard for jolts and thrills. You carve pumpkins and hand out candy. But inside — deep in your walls and behind your appliances — you want stability, safety, and silence. By staying vigilant, cleaning regularly, and calling professionals at the first hint of trouble, you right the balance. You transform your home from a potential haunted maze into a secure sanctuary.

This Halloween, don’t blame ghosts if your home begins to hiss, spark, or groan. Most of what seems haunted is just an appliance — stressed, neglected, or failing. And those appliances are likely your refrigerator, oven, stove, freezer, washer, dryer, dishwasher, or ice maker. If any of these major units act up, give Appliance Rescue Service a call. Whether it's inspection, maintenance, or repairs, we specialize in taming those haunted machines. Let us quiet your home and restore peace — no exorcist needed.

Stay safe. Stay observant. And let your only chills this season come from ghosts in films — not your appliances.

Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

How Long Should Rental Appliances Last—and When to Swap Them Out

From fridges to dryers, here’s how to know when replacement is worth it.

 When one tenant moves out and another is about to move in, most landlords go through the usual turnover checklist—fresh paint, deep cleaning, maybe new flooring. But what about the appliances?  The major appliances are a major part of how tenants will experience their home on the day to day. Refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers, and dryers are more than just conveniences they are the work horses of a home.  The question of whether to repair or replace them isn’t always simple or straight forward. Factors like age, condition, energy efficiency, and tenant expectations all play a role, and some may weigh more heavily at different times. Here’s a room-by-room look at when it makes sense to invest in replacements and when repairs may be enough.

Refrigerator
We’ll start in the kitchen, with arguably the most essential appliance in any home, the refrigerator. Most refrigerators last between 10-12 years these days, but issues will show up sooner. Frequent breakages, odd noises and inconsistent cooling are all examples of warning signs. An unreliable refrigerator isn’t just an inconvenience to your tenants, it can lead to spoiled food and possible illness. 

If your current refrigerator is pushing a decade, it’s a good time to start saving up. While a good repairman can surprise you, miracles aren’t in our repertoire. If something is well and truly dead, repair isn’t always an option. Modern models also offer energy savings that your tenants will appreciate, especially if they’re paying the electric bill. A sleek updated fridge also makes the space instantly more appealing to prospective renters. 

Courtesy of USDA

Tip: if you don’t replace all of the appliances, make sure that the refrigerator matches the finish of all of the other appliances in the kitchen. When in doubt, this can be achieved by using contact paper, as we covered last week. Mismatched appliances make the kitchen feel disjointed and piecemeal. 

Oven and Stove
Like refrigerators, ovens, and stoves will typically last you about 10 to 15 years. The good news is that burners and heating elements can often be replaced, as can many electronic components. However, consistent problems and failing controls are warning signs that you’ll need a replacement sooner rather than later. 

Courtesy of LG

If your range is still functional, consider whether it benefits you to upgrade it at this point. While an electric stove will quickly show its age based on the features it has, a gas stove that’s well maintained is harder to tell. So, you might not need to yet. On the other hand, an energy-efficient model cuts down on utility costs, and a brand new range can make the entire kitchen feel fresh and exciting with new features, often justifying a slightly higher rent. 

Tip: Gas stoves are often seen as a premium feature, but electric models tend to be easier and cheaper to maintain in rental settings. Choose based on your tenant demographic and property type.

Dishwasher
Dishwashers will typically last between 8 & 10 years, which is shorter than other major appliances, due to how hard they work. Over time they can start to leak, make noise and smell making which are signs a repair is needed, and possibly a replacement. .

While a broken dishwasher may not seem like an urgent repair, it’s definitely one you’d want to either replace or repair before new tenants move in. In a competitive market like Dallas, Frisco and McKinney, many tenants view it as a must-have. Offering a reliable, modern suite of appliances in the kitchen, including the dishwasher, can make your property stand out. And because new dishwashers are more water- and energy-efficient, replacing an aging one saves everyone in the long run. 

Tip: Consider mid-range models with stainless steel interiors—they’re durable, quieter, and more appealing to prospective tenants.

Washer

 A top-loading washer typically lasts about 10 years, while a front-loading one can last up to 12. Signs it may be time for replacement include leaks, excessive shaking, banging, and difficulty draining. In a rental, where machines see heavy and sometimes rough use, washers may wear out faster.

Courtesy of RDNE Stock project

Offering an in-unit washer is a big selling point for tenants, especially younger renters or families who value convenience. If your washer is more than a decade old, replacing it before a new tenant moves in can prevent future complaints and add appeal to your listing.

Tip:Top load washers are often cheaper, but they aren’t as appealing, and can be a hassle for accessibility. Make sure to consider your demographic when looking at a new one. 

Dryer
Dryers generally last 10 to 13 years. While they’re fairly simple machines, problems like inefficient drying, overheating, or loud thumping noises can signal that it’s nearing the end of its life.

Courtesy of LG

Replacing an unreliable dryer doesn’t just improve tenant satisfaction—it also reduces the risk of safety issues. Lint buildup in older dryers can be a fire hazard, making proactive replacement a smart investment.

Tip: Make sure dryer vents are cleaned between tenants. This simple step extends the life of the appliance and improves safety.

Replacing appliances between renters can feel like a big expense, but it’s often a smart, long-term investment. Updated, efficient appliances not only reduce repair calls but also help attract and retain quality tenants who are willing to stay longer and pay a little more for modern conveniences.

If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace, consider the age of the appliance, how often it’s been serviced, and whether it’s meeting today’s efficiency standards. In many cases, replacing an outdated model before it becomes a problem saves money and stress down the line.

And if you ever run into trouble with your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer, or dryer, you don’t have to tackle it alone. Appliance Rescue Service is here to help keep your home running smoothly. Call us for an appointment whenever you need a maintenance run, or a repair.

Call: (214) 599-0055

Website 

Additional Reading

Quick Fix or Costly Mistake? Myths About Appliance Repairs

Laundry 101: Extend the Life of Your Washer with These Tips

The Risks of DIY Appliance Repairs and How to Avoid Them

Gross Truths About Appliance Filters (and How to Clean Them Right)

Learn when to clean and when to replace filters in your home’s most-used appliances.

When it comes to keeping your home running smoothly, the little things make a big difference—and few things are littler than your appliance filters. They sit quietly inside your fridge, dishwasher, dryer, microwave, and even your HVAC system, working day after day to keep your air cleaner, your water fresher, and your appliances safe from strain.

But here’s the catch: filters only do their job if you take care of them. Cleaning and replacing them on schedule is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your appliances, save energy, and avoid bigger repairs down the road. The good news? With just a few minutes of attention, you can keep your home’s filters in great shape.

Refrigerator – Water Filter

Your refrigerator’s water filter works hard behind the scenes to make sure every glass of water and ice cube is clean, fresh, and safe to drink. When it’s neglected, the results show up quickly in taste, smell, and even how well the dispenser works.

So, how do you take care of it?

• Locate the filter (commonly in a grille at the base, inside an upper corner, or behind a panel).
  

• Shut off the water if your model requires it.
  

• Twist or release the old filter and pull it out.
  

• Insert the new filter, making sure it locks in place.
  

• Run and discard 2–3 gallons of water through the dispenser to flush out air and activate the filter.
  

• Reset the filter indicator light if your fridge has one.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

-courtesy-of-Lowes

Cleaning Frequency: Replace every 6 months, or every 3–4 months for heavy use, larger households, or poor water quality.
Signs to Watch For: Cloudy water, slower dispenser flow, smaller or misshapen ice, odd taste or smell, strange noises, or a filter indicator light.
What Happens if I Don’t? You may end up drinking contaminated water, dealing with mold and bacteria buildup, or facing a clogged dispenser or ice maker.

Refrigerator – Air Filter

The air filter inside your fridge helps control odors, slow down bacteria growth, and keep food fresher for longer. A clean air filter means your fridge smells pleasant and your groceries last as they should.

So, how do you take care of it?

• Locate the filter (typically near the back wall or ceiling inside the fridge).
  

• Remove the cover and the old filter.

• Insert the new filter into the holder.
  
  

• Reattach the cover and reset the filter indicator if your fridge has one.
  
  

Courtesy-of-Frigidaire

Cleaning Frequency: Replace every 6 months, or up to 12 months in lower-use households.
Signs to Watch For: Lingering odors, food spoiling faster than usual, or a filter alert light.
What Happens if I Don’t? Odors linger, bacteria spreads, food spoils more quickly, and you may notice a stale or musty smell in your fridge even after cleaning.

Dishwasher Filter

Your dishwasher’s filter is what stands between you and gritty, dirty dishes. It traps leftover food scraps and keeps the drain from clogging. Clean it regularly, and your dishes come out sparkling. Neglect it, and you’ll start to smell the difference.

So, how do you take care of it?

• Remove the bottom rack to reach the filter, usually found under the spray arms.

• Twist and lift the filter out (some models have multiple pieces).
  

• Rinse under hot water to remove debris.
  

• Use a sponge or small brush with mild soap for stubborn grime.

• Reinstall the filter securely, then replace the rack.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Courtesy-of-Thumbtack

Cleaning Frequency: Clean every 1–4 weeks depending on usage. Manufacturers often recommend every 2–3 months. Some models have indicators after about 50 wash cycles.
Signs to Watch For: Gritty dishes, foul odor, drainage issues, or visible debris in the filter.
What Happens if I Don’t? Food debris builds up, leaving dishes dirty and smelly. Clogs can cause water backup, drainage issues, and even damage to the pump.

Microwave Filters – Grease & Charcoal

Over-the-range microwaves have two filters: grease filters that trap cooking residue, and charcoal filters that absorb odors. Keeping them clean means better ventilation and a fresher kitchen.

Grease Filter – How to Clean:

• Unplug the microwave.
  

• Slide or unclip the filter from the underside.
  

• Soak in hot, soapy water (add a little baking soda for heavy grease).

• Scrub gently with a dish brush, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry.
  

• Reinstall when fully dry.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Charcoal Filter – How to Replace:

• Unplug the microwave.
  

• Remove the vent panel screws.
  

• Take out the old charcoal filter.
  

• Insert the new one in the correct position.
  

• Reattach the panel and screws.
  
  
  

Cleaning Frequency: Grease filters should be cleaned monthly (or every 1–3 months with lighter cooking). Charcoal filters must be replaced every 6 months.
Signs to Watch For: Lingering smoke, persistent kitchen odors, or reduced vent performance.
What Happens if I Don’t? Odors and smoke linger, grease builds up, efficiency drops, and overheating becomes a risk.

Clothes Dryer – Lint Filter

Every load of laundry leaves behind lint, and your dryer filter’s job is to catch it. Clean it after each use, and your clothes will dry faster and safer.

So, how do you take care of it?

• Pull out the lint filter and remove lint by hand after each load.
  

• Once a month, scrub the filter with a brush in warm, soapy water.
  

• Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely before replacing.
  

Cleaning Frequency: After every load for lint removal, and once a month for a deeper wash.
Signs to Watch For: Longer drying times, overheating, burning smell, or visible lint buildup in the vent.
What Happens if I Don’t? Expect slower drying, higher energy bills, damage to the dryer, and a serious fire risk from lint buildup.

HVAC / Air Conditioner

Your HVAC system is a home necessity when it comes to living in Texas, and that means taking care of it is too. Cleaning out the filters on it fights on two fronts: preventing excess strain on the system and keeping the air clean inside your home. In case you didn’t know, your HVAC system keeps the air clean by trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants.

So, how do you take care of it?

• Turn off the power to the unit.

• Find the filter and inspect it for damage (there may be more than one—your manual will tell you).

• Vacuum the filter with a soft brush attachment to remove loose debris.
  

• For a deeper clean, soak it in hot water and white vinegar for 1 hour.
  

• Rinse with clean water and let dry fully.

• Replace the filter, ensuring it’s positioned correctly for airflow.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Cleaning Frequency: Reusable filters should be cleaned once a month and replaced every six. Disposable filters should be replaced every 1–3 months.
Signs to Watch For: Reduced airflow, increased dust in the home, or visible dirt on the filter.
What Happens if I Don’t? You’ll deal with higher energy bills, dirtier air inside your home, reduced airflow, and possible breakdowns in the system.

Filter care may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest habits a homeowner can keep. Staying on top of these small maintenance tasks gives you cleaner air, safer water, fresher food, and peace of mind that your appliances are working their best.

And when the job calls for more than a filter swap—whether it’s a repair, replacement, or expert advice—ARS is here to help. Our team is dedicated to keeping your home comfortable and your appliances running smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most.

Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

4 Steps To A Clean Range Hood 

Why Is My Oven Smelling So Strange? 

Don't Overlook Your Ice Maker: The Benefits of Regular Cleaning