Keep the Spark Alive: How to Spot & Prevent Electrical Issues in Your Appliances

From flickering lights to strange smells, electrical issues in your appliances can be serious. Here’s how to address them before they get worse.

Electricity is integral to our homes. From our food to our clothes to the large majority of our entertainment, all of it has something to do with electricity. Our appliances especially with a few notable exceptions, run on electricity. Which means keeping that spark working properly and safe is important. This week we're looking at the risks that can occur from an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring as well as how to spot and take preventative measures.

WHAT IS AN OVERLOAD? 

Before we go digging into your appliances and how your home is set up, you need to understand what an overload is and what causes them. 

An electrical circuit is the path that electricity flows along. It's made up of wires, conductors, switches, and a circuit breaker, which acts as a safety device. A circuit allows electricity to flow from the power source or outlet to all of the devices that are hooked to that outlet. 

Courtesy of Conger Design

If you think of a circuit like  A river, then a circuit is overloaded when the water passing through it is at more than what the appliances and devices connected to it need or when they are pulling too much through the circuit.  For example if  your outlet is pulling double what your refrigerator needs, it is as if the river has overflowed. The gauge of the wire, the rating of the circuit breaker, and the electrical panel all work together to establish the maximum load for a circuit. And this is why the other type of an overload can happen, when appliances are pulling more than what an outlet is rated for.

While it can be hard to wrap your head around at first, understanding this concept is crucial to your home. Every circuit in your home has a set amount that it can handle safely. Overloading these circuits can lead to overheating, tripped breakers, broken appliances, or electrical fires.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Being able to recognize the warning signs in your appliances all the potential overload not only keeps you safe but it keeps your appliances safe. Electrical problems can often start small but they will escalate and rapidly. 

Flickering and dimming lights are a sign to watch out for. This can indicate an overloaded circuit that's working to supply power. 

If your circuit breaker trips and then immediately trips again after you turn it back on this is another sign to watch out for. This means that it is detecting excessive current. 

The next step on the warning scale is if you have a smell of burning from your outlets or your appliances and you aren't cooking anything yet. This can mean that the wiring or the insulation are overheating. 

And then you need to keep an eye out , or maybe an ear out, for buzzing. Buzzing in either outlets or an appliance can and often does indicate that either wires are loose or that it is drawing too much power.

If your outlets start to become warm to the touch or worse discolored, this is not a sign this is a red flag. It is getting hot enough that you need to worry about a fire soon. 

If you notice any of these issues, take immediate action to prevent potential electrical damage or fire hazards.

Common Causes of Electrical Overloads

So we know what an overload is, and warning signs to look out for, the next step to keeping spark alive in your house is knowing the causes. What can you do today to keep that spark alive for years to come?

1. Don't Put Too Many Devices on One Circuit

Plugging in power hungry appliances, like your refrigerator, space heaters, and dryers on the same circuit can easily overload that circuit. Kitchen circuits are especially prone to this problem. So make sure that you know which outlets are rated for what in your home. If you're buying new you should be able to ask, or you can ask an electrician to come out and give you a hand. 

2. Old or Outdated Wiring

Older homes, like those that were built in Grapevine and Bedford, don't always have wiring that was designed for modern electrical loads. Unless the house was gutted and rewired, many of these homes are built to older codes, and can struggle with the number of electronics we use today. This can cause the wiring to overheat and fail which increases fire risks.

3. Faulty or Failing Appliances

If you have an appliance that you haven't gotten to take care of yet, or haven't noticed that there was a problem, it may draw excessive power. If it's damaged or defective it can easily draw so much that it causes circuit breakers to trip.

4. Extension Cord Overuse

Say it with us. Extension cords are like Band-Aids. They're a temporary fix not a permanent one. Using extension cords long-term or worse Daisy-chaining them together, creates dangerous situations. We love having flowers around the house but Daisy chains are not one of them.  

And in the event that you haven't heard of the term daisy chain, that is when you plug one extension cord into another extension cord and hope that everything turns out fine. It doesn't. Especially if you have a power hungry set of computers plugged in. That's a recipe for fire. 

5. Loose or Corroded Wiring 

Poor electrical connection, such as between a plug and an outlet that has corrosion, can increase the resistance within the circuit. This can cause overheating and circuit failure as the appliance tries to draw power and gas to work harder to get it. 

Courtesy of Shelton Keys Dunning

6. Multiple High-Wattage Devices Running Simultaneously 

Even if they're on completely separate outlets, they might not be on separate circuits. So having multiple large appliances running at the same time can push the limits of an older electrical system. An example of this is having to make sure you run only your microwave or your toaster oven and not both at the same time because it'll flip the breaker. This is an example of multiple things on one circuit, but plugged into separate outlets.

How to Prevent Electrical Overloads

Fortunately there are steps that you can take to protect your home under appliances. 

• Distribute your high wattage appliances across separate circuits. 

Don't plug them all into the same circuit and definitely not into the same outlet. The sole exception to this if your house was intentionally wired for it, would be the washer and dryer. And those are usually on a separate circuit of their own with a dedicated outlet. 

• Use power strips with surge protectors 

         A power strip is not the same thing as an extension cord. Yes it does act to let you plug multiple things into an outlet, but it also has a mini breaker of its own so that if it gets overheated it will shut off.

• Smart outlets are your friends 

Appliances and other electronics still draw power even when turned off. Previously it was necessary to just completely unplug them. Now with the Advent of smart plugs, you can shut them off either on a timer or from your phone much easier and it makes your electric bill easier to handle as well. 

•  Upgrade outdated wiring 

If you know that you're home is an older home, 50 years or more, it would not hurt to have an electrician out to inspect the wiring system. They may advise you to upgrade, they might not. As we are not electricians, this is important but outside of our ballpark. 

Electrical Hazards & Consequences

Ignoring electrical issues isn't any good for you or your appliances. Just like a relationship ignoring the problem will not make it go away, it just grows teeth and gets bigger. 

Ignoring electrical issues can lead to serious dangers, including:

Courtesy of Ulrike Mai

• Electrical Fires – Overheating wires can ignite surrounding materials, leading to devastating house fires.

• Damaged Appliances – Power surges and overloads can shorten the lifespan of expensive appliances.

• Electric Shocks – Faulty wiring or overloaded outlets can increase the risk of shocks, which can cause severe injuries.

• Burns, muscular spasms, heart collapse, and other potentially fatal consequences can ensue from receiving an electric shock. Overloading circuits, needing more insulation, and not getting expert advice from electricians are all things that can increase the danger of electric hazards.

• Arcing & Short Circuits – Overloaded circuits or damaged wiring can cause electrical arcing, which produces extreme heat and sparks, increasing fire risks.

• Structural Damage – Persistent overheating can degrade wiring insulation and even damage walls or electrical panels over time.

• Increased Energy Costs – Overloaded circuits force appliances to work harder, leading to inefficiency and higher electricity bills. 

• Frequent Power Outages – An overloaded electrical system may cause regular outages or failures.

When to Call a Professional

If you experience any of the following appliance-related electrical issues, Appliance Rescue Service is here to help: 

• An Appliance Is Tripping the Circuit Breaker Repeatedly – If resetting the breaker doesn’t solve the issue, the appliance may have an internal fault.

• An Appliance Overheats or Emits a Burning Smell – This could indicate wiring issues or motor failure inside the unit.

• A Major Appliance Suddenly Stops Working – Especially if there was no power surge or visible damage, it may need professional repair.

• A Faulty Appliance Shows Signs of Electrical Issues – Buzzing sounds, inconsistent performance, or visible sparks mean it needs servicing.

• A Fridge, Washer, or Dryer Loses Power Unexpectedly – If the issue isn't with the circuit itself, the appliance may have an electrical fault.

Don’t wait for sparks to fly—take action today to keep your home safe and your appliances running smoothly. If you notice persistent electrical problems—such as frequent breaker trips, buzzing outlets, or burning smells—it’s best to consult a licensed electrician. Regular inspections can prevent small problems from turning into major, costly repairs.  

Additional Reading
Common Appliance Issues That Could Ruin Your Holiday – And How to Prevent Them

The Risks of DIY Appliance Repairs and How to Avoid Them

Unlocking Your Dishwasher: A Troubleshooting Guide

Think Your Appliances Are Running Smoothly? You Might Be Missing These Dirty Secrets

Clean on the Outside, Chaos on the Inside: Appliance Maintenance Tips

You clean your kitchen, wipe down counters, and vacuum the floors—but are your appliances getting the care they deserve? Many homeowners believe their appliances are in top shape simply because they seem to be running fine, but there might be hidden issues lurking in overlooked areas. These “dirty secrets” could be causing inefficiencies, leading to unnecessary wear and tear, or even setting the stage for costly breakdowns. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about these hidden areas and explain why regular attention is essential to ensure your appliances keep running smoothly and efficiently.

Q1: “I thought my refrigerator was running fine, but I heard that cleaning the condenser coils is important. Why?”

A1:
It’s easy to forget about the condenser coils in your refrigerator since they’re tucked away at the back or underneath the unit. However, these coils play a crucial role in your fridge’s cooling system by expelling heat. When dust, dirt, or pet hair accumulates on the coils, your fridge has to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. This increases your energy bills and can cause the appliance to overheat, leading to a potential breakdown. Over time, this extra strain can drastically reduce the lifespan of your fridge.

Cleaning the condenser coils is a simple task that can have long-lasting benefits. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment or a coil brush to clear away any debris. Aim to clean the coils every six months, or more frequently if you have pets. Keeping the coils clean helps your fridge run efficiently, saving you money on electricity and reducing the likelihood of a costly repair.

Q2: “I’m careful about cleaning the lint trap in my dryer, but is there anything else I should be worried about?”

A2:
While it’s great that you’re regularly cleaning the lint trap in your dryer, it’s not the only area to focus on. Lint can accumulate not just in the trap, but also in the dryer vent and ductwork. Over time, this buildup can restrict airflow, causing your dryer to work harder, take longer to dry clothes, and even become a fire hazard. In fact, dryers are one of the most common sources of household fires, with clogged vents being a primary cause.

To prevent this, you should clean your dryer vent hose every six months and consider having the entire vent system professionally cleaned if it hasn’t been done in a while. This simple maintenance step not only keeps your dryer working efficiently but also reduces the risk of fires. Be sure to also check for kinks or damage in the vent hose that could further restrict airflow.

Q3: “My dishwasher is working fine, but I’ve heard the filters need cleaning. How often should I do this?”

A3:
It’s easy to assume that as long as your dishwasher is cleaning dishes, it doesn’t need any attention. However, dishwashers can quickly accumulate food debris, soap scum, and grease in areas like the filter and spray arms. If these parts aren’t regularly cleaned, your dishwasher may not clean as effectively, and over time, it could start emitting unpleasant odors.

Cleaning the filter and spray arms is straightforward and can significantly affect the dishwasher’s performance. The filter should be cleaned once a month to ensure proper water drainage and prevent buildup. If the spray arm becomes clogged, it will affect the water pressure and distribution, leaving your dishes dirty. A quick inspection of the spray arm every few months can prevent this from happening.

By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, your dishwasher will continue to provide spotless dishes and a fresh-smelling kitchen, without the buildup that can lead to bigger issues down the road.

Q4: “I’ve never cleaned the vents in my oven. Do I need to worry about that?”

A4:
Yes, oven ventilation is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for keeping your oven running smoothly. The vents help regulate temperature and ensure even cooking, but over time, food particles, grease, and dust can accumulate, blocking airflow and causing your oven to overheat. This can lead to uneven cooking, longer preheating times, and potentially costly breakdowns.

In addition to cleaning the vents, it’s also important to check the oven door seals. If these seals are worn or damaged, hot air can escape, making your oven less efficient and driving up energy costs. Regularly wipe down the seals and ensure they’re intact. A simple cleaning routine—wiping down the vents and seals after each use—will keep your oven in top shape and extend its lifespan.

Q5: “I’ve been hearing that microwaves need maintenance too. What should I be cleaning in there?”

A5:
Microwaves often don’t get the attention they deserve, but regular cleaning is essential for maintaining efficiency and ensuring the appliance remains safe to use. While most people clean the interior of their microwave, the exterior and the venting system are commonly neglected.

The microwave vent is crucial for preventing moisture buildup and keeping the appliance from overheating. Grease and food particles can build up in the vent, reducing the microwave’s efficiency and potentially causing foul odors. It’s also a good idea to wipe down the exterior regularly to prevent grime buildup around the buttons and door.

A thorough cleaning of both the interior and exterior every month will help keep your microwave running smoothly, prevent the spread of odors, and maintain hygiene in your kitchen.

Q6: “Are there any other overlooked areas in home appliances that need regular attention?”

A6:
Yes, several other appliances have areas that people often forget to clean or maintain, such as:

• Washing Machines: Many people think washing machines don’t need cleaning, but the rubber seals, detergent drawer, and filters can quickly collect dirt, mold, and mildew. Clean the rubber seals regularly and run a hot cycle with white vinegar to disinfect the machine and remove any buildup.

• Range Hoods: The fan and grease filter in range hoods can become clogged with grease and dust. Clean these parts monthly to ensure the hood works efficiently and helps reduce cooking odors.

• Air Conditioners: For central or window air conditioners, the filters and evaporator coils should be cleaned or replaced regularly to maintain airflow and cooling efficiency.

Conclusion: It’s easy to assume that your appliances are running smoothly because they seem to be working fine, but these often-overlooked areas could be making your appliances less efficient or causing bigger issues down the road. Regular maintenance is essential for extending their life, ensuring they run efficiently, and preventing costly repairs. If you’re not sure where to start or need help keeping your appliances in top shape, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Appliance Rescue Service. We’re here to make sure everything in your home stays up and running, so you don’t have to worry about any dirty secrets hiding in your appliances.

Q7: “I’ve heard that the filter in my fridge needs to be replaced regularly, but how often should I do this?”

A7:
Yes, your fridge filter plays an important role in keeping the water and ice clean and free from contaminants. Over time, the filter will become clogged with impurities, which can affect the taste and quality of your water. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the water filter every six months, but if you notice a change in taste or odor, it’s a good idea to replace it sooner. Regularly replacing the filter ensures that your fridge works efficiently and that you always have clean, fresh water at your fingertips.

Q8: “I’ve never thought about cleaning my garbage disposal. How do I do that?”

A8:
Your garbage disposal can quickly become a breeding ground for odors and grime if not properly cleaned. Scraps of food, grease, and soap can build up over time, causing unpleasant smells and potential clogs. To clean your disposal, simply drop a handful of ice cubes and a small amount of coarse salt into the disposal and run it. This helps clean the blades and remove any stuck food particles. You can also grind up lemon rinds or pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the disposal to neutralize odors and freshen it up. A regular cleaning every few weeks can keep your disposal smelling fresh and working properly.

Q9: “My oven doesn’t cook evenly. Could it be due to the oven racks?”

A9:
Yes, uneven cooking in your oven could be the result of poorly arranged oven racks. Placing racks in the wrong position can block air circulation, leading to uneven heat distribution. Make sure to adjust the racks to the appropriate height for the dish you’re cooking, as recommended in your oven’s manual. Additionally, the oven’s heating elements and thermostat may need to be cleaned or calibrated if the issue persists. Keeping the racks clean and properly positioned is a simple fix that could help improve the performance of your oven.

Q10: “I’m noticing a musty smell from my washing machine. What could be causing it, and how can I fix it?”

A10:
A musty smell from your washing machine is often caused by mold or mildew buildup in the drum, especially if the door is left closed after a wash cycle. Over time, the warm, damp environment inside the machine promotes mold growth. To fix this, leave the door open between washes to allow the interior to dry out, and wipe down the rubber seals with a disinfectant. Running an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar can also help eliminate any buildup and odors. Additionally, be sure to clean the detergent drawer and filter regularly to prevent residue buildup.

Q11: “Should I clean my freezer? I’ve never really done that before.”

A11:
While most people think of cleaning their freezer only when defrosting it, it’s important to clean the inside of your freezer regularly. Ice buildup and spills can affect its efficiency, and neglected food spills can cause odors. Unplug the freezer, remove any food, and wipe down the interior with a mild detergent solution. You can also use a mixture of water and baking soda to scrub the walls and remove any lingering odors. Cleaning your freezer every six months is a good practice to keep it running efficiently and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Q12: “Do I need to clean the filter on my vacuum cleaner?”

A12:
Yes! Just like other appliances, your vacuum cleaner needs regular care. Many vacuums have filters that can get clogged with dust, dirt, and debris over time. A clogged filter reduces the vacuum’s suction power and can strain the motor. Check your vacuum’s filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed. Some vacuums have washable filters that you can rinse under cold water, while others require a replacement. Cleaning the filter ensures that your vacuum maintains its performance, keeping your home cleaner and reducing wear on the machine.

Q13: “How can I extend the life of my coffee maker?”

A13:
Your coffee maker can accumulate mineral deposits and oils over time, which affect its performance and taste. To extend its life and ensure a perfect cup of coffee every time, clean your coffee maker regularly. Run a cycle with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to remove mineral buildup. Follow this with a cycle of just water to rinse out any vinegar residue. You should also clean the filter basket, carafe, and any removable parts regularly to keep everything in top condition. By following these simple steps, you’ll maintain the efficiency of your coffee maker and get the most out of every brew.

Keeping your appliances clean and well-maintained not only ensures they run smoothly but also helps extend their lifespan. If you're feeling unsure about tackling these dirty secrets on your own, let our team at Appliance Rescue Service step in. From thorough cleanings to professional repairs, we’re here to help your appliances perform at their best. Give us a call today and discover how we can keep your home running seamlessly.

Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

Holiday Success Starts at Home: Essential Tips for Your Appliance, Kitchen, and Home

Everything you need to get your appliances and home in top shape for a joyful, organized holiday season.

The holidays are almost here, and it feels like all of our time is being spent in the kitchen. That can be a wonderful way to foster togetherness and celebration with friends and family. But, given it’s the heart of all of the festivities, your kitchen appliances are working SO much harder. Possibly even harder than they do during summer. That makes it crucial to ensure they’re ready to handle the demands of the season. 

To help you making the most of the season AND keep your home running smoothly we’ve compiled the best of our holiday appliance tips into one ultimate guide. We’re hitting cleaning, troubleshooting, and how to organize everything. This roundup has everything to keep your home ticking like clockwork so you can focus on enjoying the season. 

Essential Preparations for High-Use Appliances

Courtesy of koolshooters

Our holiday meals are almost always center stage for holiday events. Everyone tries to make the best new recipe or to make the family favorites. Which means that your oven, dishwasher and refrigerator are the unsung heroes of your kitchen at this time of year. A little prep work ahead of the holidays can ensure they’re up for the heavy lifting. 

Before your guests arrive, check your dishwasher for clogs and clean out the fridge to make sure you have plenty of room for food. 

Dishwasher Tips: Help Your Dishwasher Clean Better – Just in Time for the Holidays!

As the holiday season approaches, your dishwasher is likely to get plenty of use. To help ensure it runs smoothly, start by running hot water first, sanitize with vinegar, and clean the gaskets and trap. Avoid overcrowding to prevent dirty dishes—these simple steps will keep your dishwasher in top shape for all the holiday meals ahead!

Kitchen Hazards Unveiled 

Oven safety is crucial in the kitchen, where common hazards include range tipovers, cookware injuries, and cooking fires. By taking preventative steps like installing anti-tip brackets, using heat-safe cookware, and staying vigilant while cooking, you can minimize risks and keep your kitchen safe. Don't forget, regular maintenance can also ensure your oven is in top shape, so you can focus on cooking up those holiday meals with peace of mind!

Chill Hacks Unveiled: Mastering Your Fridge's Microzones for Fresher Foods

Maximize your refrigerator's efficiency and reduce food waste this holiday season by understanding its various temperature zones. From storing dairy in the stable middle shelves to keeping meats on the bottom, organizing your fridge properly can extend food freshness and minimize spoilage. 

4 Tips to Get your Garbage Disposal Ready for the Holidays!  

As the holiday season brings heavy kitchen use, don’t forget to prepare your garbage disposal with these simple tips: scour for grime with ice cubes, avoid certain foods, clean with fruit peels or baking soda, and use it regularly to prevent rust.

Avoiding Holiday Appliance Mishaps

Nothing is quite as bad as a malfunctioning appliance in the middle of Christmas dinner. Thankfully, a few simple steps can help you avoid common issues, so you can focus on what matters most to you and your family. 

Remember some of most oft-repeated advice: 

Courtesy of August de Richelieu

• Unless it’s steam cleaning, avoid the self-clean button on your oven! 

• Keep an eye on your electrical outlets. Tempting as it is, don’t overload them or bring power strips into the kitchen when you’re handling lots of small appliances. 

• Keep your dishwasher clean of build-up and clogs

• Check the seals on all of your appliances, and make sure that they’re clean, free of grime, cracks or breaks. 

For a Stress-Free Holiday – Skip the Self Clean Mode!

While the 'self-clean' button on your oven sounds tempting, it's best avoided, especially before the holidays. High temperatures can cause damage and release harmful fumes. Instead, clean your oven manually to avoid repair issues and keep your holidays stress-free. 

Common Appliance Issues That Could Ruin Your Holiday – And How to Prevent Them

Prepare your home appliances ahead of the holiday season with simple maintenance tasks to avoid stress. Deep clean your oven, stove, fridge, and washer, watch for common issues like clogged filters, and ensure your electrical system is ready for extra holiday use. A little preparation can keep everything running smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying time with your loved ones.

Pre-Holiday Cleaning and Organization

A sparkling kitchen not only impresses guests but also makes holiday cooking and entertaining easier. Plus, addressing potential hazards ahead of time ensures a safer and smoother experience.

Focus on often-overlooked areas, like the oven’s drip pans or the back of your fridge, and ensure everything has its place before the holiday chaos begins. These small steps make a big difference when you’re juggling a house full of guests. And it doesn’t hurt to make sure the guest rooms are set up as well.

Organizing Your Home Before the Holiday Daze

"Get ahead of the holiday chaos with these easy tips for decluttering, organizing, and storing your decorations and gifts. From using bins and baskets to setting up a wrapping station, these tricks will help you stay stress-free and make your home holiday-ready in no time.

5 Spots in the Kitchen to Clean Before the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner, so it's the perfect time to get your kitchen ready for all the entertaining and baking. Don't forget the often-overlooked spots like your range hood, small appliances, trashcan, oven, and refrigerator. 

10 Kitchen Hazards to Avoid this Holiday Season

The kitchen is the heart of holiday celebrations, but it can also be filled with potential hazards. From burns and knife injuries to spills and grease buildup, there are several dangers to watch out for this season. Stay safe while cooking by taking simple precautions and ensuring your appliances are in good working order before the holiday rush!

19 Essentials to Setting up a Gorgeous Guest Room

Courtesy of RDNE

Turn your guest room into a cozy, luxurious retreat for the holidays with thoughtful touches like extra toiletries, a luggage rack, and a well-made bed. Make sure your space is fully stocked with essentials to ensure your guests feel relaxed and at home during their stay.

Pro Tips from Appliance Rescue Service 

Our team at Appliance Rescue Service recommends scheduling routine maintenance ahead of the holidays to ensure your appliances are in peak condition. Think of it as a little extra insurance against unexpected breakdowns, so you can focus on creating holiday memories.

By following these tips, you can make your holiday season as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether it’s prepping appliances, avoiding common pitfalls, or staying organized, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment. And if an unexpected issue does arise, you can always count on Appliance Rescue Service to keep your home running smoothly.

Website

Call : (214) 599-0055

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

Avoid wear and tear on your appliances with these laundry tips.

Laundry might seem routine, but small habits can have a big impact—not just on your clothes but on the longevity of your washer, too. Over time, forgotten pockets, detergent overload, and oversized loads can wear down your machine. With these simple laundry tips, you’ll not only keep your clothes in great shape but also help your washer run smoothly for years to come. Let’s go over some easy steps to make both your laundry and appliance maintenance a breeze.

Laundry Tips

While we always think we know exactly what to do when doing laundry, it helps to cover the basics. Sometimes, we forget or just don't think about one or two steps because there are so many other things we have to do. So, let's brush over these quickly just to cover our bases.

Empty Every Pocket

Courtesy of RDNE Stock project

Leaving different items in your pockets can damage your clothes and your washer. Papers with ink or paint on them can end up dyeing clothing, and metal items like keys and nuts can damage the interior of your washer. So, before running anything through, make sure to turn pockets inside out. A fun tip if you have children is to put a change jar in the laundry room, and any change left in the pockets can then be used toward something fun for the family. This is especially useful if you have someone who always leaves loose change in their pockets before laundry day.

Limit the Detergent

No matter how many times we do it, there's always some part of our brain that thinks "more detergent equals more clean!" Sadly, that's not really the case. In reality, it just means you're creating more suds in the washer, which can cause a second rinse to be needed or make the washer work harder.

Limit the Load Size—Not Too Big or Too Small

This one is tricky. On the one hand, you don't want your load to be too small because then the sensors don't work quite right, and the computer brain of the washer essentially gets confused. So, throw in an extra towel or two if all you're trying to wash is one or two things.

Courtesy of Anna Shvets

On the other hand, you don't want the load to be too large. As we've covered in a different post, making continually oversized loads will cause your washer to run down its motor much faster than normal.

Wash Bras Carefully

Just like leaving keys or other metal parts in your pockets can be dangerous to the washer, bras can be too. If the bra gives out and the underwire starts poking out during the wash, it can damage the inside of your washer. To avoid this, always wash your bras on delicate and inside a lingerie bag.

Maintenance Tips

Make Sure It’s Level

Whether you’ve just purchased your first washer or you’re doing a checkup, start by making sure that it's level. Not only does this keep your laundry from destabilizing the washer during a cycle, but it also ensures that the water level inside the washer is accurate.

Check the Water-Fill Hoses

Courtesy of Ketut Subiyanto

Take a minute or two once a month to go over your water-fill hoses. Make sure they're connected properly and that they are not becoming brittle or cracked. When these start showing damage, it's time to replace them ASAP before you end up with a leak.

Descale Regularly

Just like the hoses, check once a month. All it takes is one load of vinegar to descale your washer. Not only will this prevent buildup in spots like your hoses or other nooks and crannies, but it also keeps the washer fresh and prevents any gross smells.

Think Ahead

Courtesy of Bia Sousa

If you're looking to move at some point, either find or get hold of the moving bolts for your washer. Having those keeps your washer from being damaged in transit, and once you get to your new house, you can have them removed and save them for the next time. If you've recently purchased a new washer, you can do that when it's delivered. Put them all in a labeled bag together and toss them in the junk drawer. Eventually, you'll use them.

Remove Any Lint

This one always comes up, and it should because of the dangers it poses to both your washer and dryer. Remove lint buildup. We talk about it more often with the dryer because it can catch fire, but lint buildup in your washer can just as easily cause damage—in this case, flooding. It's not common because it takes a lot of lint buildup, and normally your washer will have issues before that point with standing water. But it can happen. To that end, just as you would with your dryer, regularly take a washcloth, sweep through everything, check the seals and other nooks, and get rid of the lint. Three minutes and you're done.

With just a few small adjustments to your laundry routine, you can extend the life of both your clothes and your washer. By paying attention to things like detergent amounts, load sizes, and regular maintenance, you’ll save yourself from costly repairs down the road. But if your washer ever does need a little extra care, our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full repair, we’ll keep your appliances running smoothly so you can focus on everything else. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our website or give us a call, and we’ll work with you to find a date and time that fits your needs. At Appliance Rescue Service, our number one priority is making sure your home is running smoothly again.

Website
Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading
How to Keep Your Washing Machine Running Smoothly

Household Hauntings: The Frightening Reality of Appliance Neglect

The Labyrinth of Limescale

DIY Repairs vs. Your Appliance Warranty: What’s the Real Cost?

Discover why DIY repairs might end up costing you more than hiring a professional.

We’ve all been there—your dishwasher stops draining, or your washing machine begins to leak water just as you’re about to leave for work. Thanks to the rise of online tutorials, it's tempting to say I'll fix it! After all all you need is a few basic tools and a video right?  So why wait for a technician when you can DIY? Pause the moment though before you grab that wrench. It's important to ask: is it really worth the risk? While talking repair on your own seems like a great idea in the moment, One missed step or unaccounted for fact, can end up costing you much more than you think. And your appliance warranty is only the start.

The Safety Net of Appliance Warranties

Appliance warranties are a safety net many of us don't think about right until we need it. The standard warranty you will get, should cover the cost of repairs and replacements for major parts and labor. This gives you peace of mind if something happens within a specific time frame. If for instance your refrigerator is compressor gives out within the warranty period,  you can save hundreds of dollars. Without that warranty? It comes out of your pocket.

A warranty will typically extend from 1 to 5 years depending on the manufacturer. Whether something broke in transit, came off the manufacturing line with something wrong, or it just breaks, that warranty is your lifeline. However warranties also come with strict rules that you have to adhere to. This includes that all repairs are done by licensed professionals. So this means that any DIY attempts can immediately void your safety net.

The True Cost of DIY Repairs

It's so easy to fall into the trap of DIY appliance repairs. You don't want to wait for someone else to have to come, and having to take time off from work in order to be there, and then pay them on top of it. We get that. Especially with online repairs promising it's a quick 5 minute fix and you get the rush of satisfaction knowing you fixed it yourself. 

However, many warranties explicitly state that if you attempt to repair the appliance yourself, it voids the warranty. So, even if you do repair the faulty thermostat in your oven, if you break another sensor in the process of doing it? Your warranty is gone and all future repairs are paid for out of pocket, and that's even if you should have had another four years under the warranty.

You're smart though, you wouldn't try replacing the thermostat in your oven. What about a hose on your washer though? Imagine that you're washing machine starts leaking. After all, in several of our articles we tell you to pay attention to the hoses on your washing machine and to replace as needed,  so you're just trusting us. But in this case, the issue isn't on the outside. It's not easily visible by eye, and all you know is that the washer is leaking. So you find an instructional video online, and you open up the machine. That's where you find a cracked hose. At this point the video has been great so you replace the hose, but you accidentally damaged a small sensor that's needed for telling if the drum is full or not. Well since you opened up your washer, you voided your warranty. This means that you're stuck with the repair bill for the sensor as well as the hose.

This isn't just about your warranties though. Homeowner insurance policies don't always cover DIY repairs either. So this means that Financial risk can go beyond just the appliance. If our washing machine from our last example, continues to leak and damages your floor, you could be on the hook for that. Which then doubles your costs.

Safety and Hidden Risks

We've talked about your warranty and about your homeowners insurance, but doing DIY repairs can also put you at risk. Appliances like an electric dryer or a gas oven serious personal risks. If improperly handled, you can easily be shocked, start a gas leak, or a fire. There is a reason that we always say that if you don't have the proper training or if you're even a little uncertain, to call in a professional. 

A professional will have the proper training, to handle high voltage appliances. Professionals also have to know how to properly disengage gas appliances to safely fix them, without leading to gas or fire hazards.

What's more, many DIY attempts are due to misdiagnosed problems. It's easy to mistake one issue for another without professional training. This leads to improper repairs that not only can worsen the initial problem but they end up costing you time and money. And because it's difficult to get hold of the actual parts you need most fixes end up being temporary at best.

Why Professional Repairs Are Worth It

While DIY repairs may seem like a cost-effective solution at first, the risks involved usually make professional repairs the smarter choice. Licensed technicians are trained to diagnose and fix problems without causing additional damage. More importantly, hiring a professional ensures that your warranty remains intact, allowing you to take full advantage of any future coverage if needed.

Professional repair services also save you time and frustration. They also keep you from the potential of medical bills if something goes wrong. What would take one of us several hours to disassemble research and troubleshoot, is fixed by a technician in a fraction of that time. Certified professionals also have access to trademarked tools and original parts to ensure that the repair is done correctly the first time.

Conclusion: Protect Your Warranty, Protect Your Home

In the end, your appliance warranty is a valuable asset that you shouldn’t risk on a DIY gamble. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to fix things yourself, the potential costs of voiding your warranty and causing further damage simply aren’t worth it. By trusting professional repair services like Appliance Rescue Service, you can rest assured that your appliances will be fixed correctly, keeping your warranty intact and your home running smoothly.

If you do have something that has gone wrong around your home, we hope you'll give us a call. You can reach us through our website or our offices where we will work with you to set up a time and date that fits your schedule. 

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Additional Reading
Prepare Your Home for Fall: Essential Maintenance Tips

Household Hauntings: The Frightening Reality of Appliance Neglect

37 Reasons To Have Your Appliances Maintained Regularly