Common Household Appliances That Break Down Way Too Often

Home appliances like the refrigerator, washer, dryer, oven and microwave are bound to break down at one point. This is because they are constantly in use, which means they are exposed to wear and tear. A home warranty cost for homeowners tends to be worth it to provide peace of mind at times when they do break down. Repairs for appliances can be done and covered under a home warranty.
But a lot of these breakdowns can be avoided with proper maintenance and cleaning. Here are some common reasons your appliances break down way too often:
1. Refrigerator
Nearly every household in America contains at least one major appliance like a refrigerator, washing machine, or dishwasher. They have a lifespan that generally ranges from 10 to 15 years, and many experience mechanical problems within the first five years of being plugged in.
Fridge repairs peak during the summer, because these appliances are working overtime to keep food cool. It’s important to know what you can and cannot put in your fridge, to avoid expensive repair costs.
2. Dishwasher
Everyday appliances help to make our lives easier and more comfortable. However, they aren’t indestructible. Appliances break down due to several reasons. These include wear and tear of their parts, violations of operating rules, or user errors.
Shimek suggests that homeowners pre-rinse dishes to reduce the amount of food particles inside their dishwashers, which can gum up moving parts. In addition, she recommends using dishwasher cleaner periodically to keep appliances looking new.
3. Dryer
Dryers are another appliance that breaks down way too often. This is usually due to human errors, such as adding more load than it can handle or forgetting to clean the vent and lint screen after each use.
If a dryer has exposed wiring or emits a smoky odor, it’s time for a repairman. Exposing wires can lead to a house fire, so it’s important to call in a technician as soon as possible.
4. Oven
There’s a good chance you’re aware that household appliances break down, but did you know they also need regular maintenance?
For example, cleaning your oven can help it work more efficiently. Plus, it will prevent bacteria and other unwanted materials from building up in the appliance. Moreover, a clean garbage disposal can limit the number of repairs that need to be
made. Just be sure to avoid putting in items that it’s not designed to grind, like chicken bones.
5. Microwave
The microwave oven uses a magnetron tube to generate electromagnetic radiation that agitates water molecules in food, cooking it much faster and more evenly. Microwaves are the most popular household appliance in the world and can cause serious damage if handled roughly.
Learn about common household appliances’ energy consumption and how to fight vampire appliances (those that consume electricity even when they’re “turned off”). It could save you money on your monthly utility bills.
6. Water Heater
Appliances like water heaters are vital in allowing us to perform essential household chores. However, they can get worn down or break down due to regular use and violation of operating rules.
Some of these blunders are preventable, such as avoiding overusing appliances on hot days. Using sacrificial anode rods is also helpful in prolonging the lifespan of your appliance. These rods consume corrosive minerals that would otherwise damage the water heater.
7. Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal is one of those appliances that is hard to live without. It can be frustrating, however, when it breaks down. Frequent use of the reset button or tripping of the circuit breaker are signs that you may have a problem with your disposal.
It is important to feed waste into the disposal slowly in small portions. Fibrous vegetables and peels like celery, rhubarb and corn husks can wrap around the disposal blades, causing it to jam.
8. Stove
Stoves, ranges and ovens are commonly used appliances in the modern kitchen. While these devices are useful, they can cause problems if not used properly.
A stove is a cooking appliance that combines an oven and cooktop in one device. It can be electric or gas fueled. It can also be freestanding or slide-in.
Researchers have found that natural gas stoves emit nitrogen dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas. This is not good news for the gas utility industry or its customers.
9. Washing Machine
Just about every household contains at least one large appliance like a refrigerator, oven, washing machine and a garbage disposal. These appliances need special care nad maintenance.
Washing machines are used a lot and they are susceptible to several causes of breakdowns including power problems, wear and tear of parts and violation of operating rules.
Keeping up with regular maintenance is the key to enhancing their lifespan. This is why many households purchase a home warranty plan to save on repair costs.