Today’s modern, new kitchen appliances are easier to use than ever. With little to do aside from pressing a button or turn a knob, cooking is a breeze. Cleaning them however can be a different story. While cleaning new appliances is an important part of maintenance, it can also keep an appliance running smoothly for a long time. Here is a look at the best methods of cleaning new kitchen appliances so your investment pays off.

How to Clean New Appliances

Fridge/Freezer

There’s practically nothing you need to do to get your refrigerator and freezer to do its thing. However, neglect is one of the top reasons an appliance fails as it increases the rate of refrigerator wear. Aside from wiping down the interior every so often, you want to stay on top of important tasks like:

  • Vacuuming the compressor coils at least twice a year; dust can prevent them from removing heat and keeping the unit cool.
  • Checking the rubber gaskets that seal the refrigerator and freezer doors; poor sealing can cause cold air to leak, so the appliance runs more frequently.

Stoves, Ovens, and Ranges

A dirty stove, whether it runs on gas or electricity, can work less efficiently and be damaged by debris. It’s therefore important to clean food buildup and periodically clean electric coils and gas burners. If you can’t wipe up debris, loosen it with a soft toothbrush.

Spray-on oven cleaners are effective at cleaning many oven models. Newer units often have self-cleaning functions that work quite well. But if you find the inside is still rather dirty, scrubbing with baking soda and vinegar can help. Oftentimes, a glass cleaner is enough for getting a glass-topped range clean. Also, the vent hood is an important feature not to forget, especially when it comes to cleaning its filter.

Microwaves

Microwave ovens are prone to splatter. Food particles can carbonize and eventually trigger electrical sparking and major damage. Cleaning a microwave is simpler than most people think. Pour water or white vinegar into a microwave safe bowl and run the unit until the liquid boils. You can wait a few minutes for the steam to further loosen the material. It should then be easy to wipe off any residue.

Dishwashers

The door gaskets and the bottom of the door should be kept clean. Debris and wear can trigger leaks. Wiping the unit down with water and bleach helps prevent excessive dirt buildup. The spray arms and pump are also prone to getting clogged. Check these areas from time to time, as food debris can affect drainage and the unit’s cleaning ability.

Habits to Avoid

Bad habits can accelerate wear and tear and shorten the life of major appliances. In addition to proper cleaning, avoid these habits that can cause systems to break down:

  • Running hot water in your garbage disposal; it melts fat and grease that solidify again in pipes.
  • Procrastinating on cleaning oven spills; cooking by-products can damage heating coils.
  • Cleaning gas burners with soap; it can affect ignition and contribute to corrosion.
  • Filling the dishwasher with sharp objects; nicks in rack coatings can cause rust.
  • Using cast iron pans on a ceramic range; it can scratch the cooktop (also, don’t drag any pots and pans on and off the stove top).

Contact Wilshire Refrigeration for Appliance Repair

When your once new kitchen appliances begin to show signs of wear, or they break down, the factory-certified technicians at Wilshire Refrigeration can help. We specialize in servicing Sub-Zero, Wolf, ASKO, and Cove appliances in Southern California and Las Vegas. To schedule service, contact us online or call 800-427-3653 today.