Kitchen Appliance Care: Easy Ways to Keep Your Oven, Hob and Dishwasher Happy
Every time you flip a pancake or load the dishwasher, your appliances do the heavy lifting. A few minutes of care each week can stop cheap fixes and keep everything humming for years. Below are the most useful habits you can start today.
Everyday Cleaning and Quick Checks
Oven: Wipe spills as soon as they cool. A damp cloth with a splash of mild dish soap clears splatter without damaging the enamel. If you spot built‑up grease, run the self‑clean cycle (if your model has one) or sprinkle baking soda, add water and let it sit for an hour before scrubbing.
Hob (gas or electric): Keep the surface free of food crumbs. For glass hobs, use a soft scraper to lift burnt spots, then spray a hob‑specific cleaner and wipe with a microfiber cloth. Gas hobs benefit from a quick brush of the burners to clear clogged jets.
Dishwasher: Run a blank cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack once a month. It removes mineral build‑up and eliminates odours. Check the filter after each wash – a handful of food bits can block water flow and cause noisy runs.
These three steps take less than ten minutes a week but make a massive difference in performance and energy use.
When to Call a Pro
If your oven won’t heat, the heating element may be faulty. A quick test is to turn it on at a high temperature and watch for any heat after five minutes. No heat? It’s time for a professional look‑over – trying to replace the element yourself can be risky without the right tools.
A hissing sound from a gas hob or inconsistent flame suggests a regulator issue. Gas work requires a certified engineer, so schedule a visit before the problem worsens.
Dishwashers that leave dishes wet after a cycle often have a blocked pump. While you can clear visible debris, a non‑spinning pump usually means a part replacement that a qualified technician should handle.
Remember, most appliances come with a warranty that covers parts and labour if you use a registered service. Keep receipts and note the service date – it’ll save you headaches later.
In short, a little daily cleaning, a monthly deep‑clean, and knowing the signs of bigger issues will keep your kitchen running smoothly. When in doubt, call the experts at South Shields Appliance Repair Services – we’re local, fast, and ready to get your gear back on track.