Get real advice on whether to repair or replace a 10-year-old stove. Find out about costs, lifespan, and tricks to stretch your stove’s value.
Kitchen Maintenance Tips to Keep Appliances Running Smoothly
Everybody wants a kitchen that works without surprise breakdowns. The good news is most problems can be stopped with a few easy habits. Below you’ll find the most useful tricks for ovens, hobs, dishwashers and even that often‑ignored extractor fan.
Everyday Habits for a Healthy Kitchen
Wipe spills right away. Grease on an oven door or hob surface hardens fast and can cause uneven heating. Grab a damp cloth and a little mild detergent after each use – it takes seconds and saves you a pricey repair later.
Check the door seals. A worn seal lets heat escape, forcing the oven to work harder. Run your hand around the gasket; if you feel gaps or cracks, replace it before the next big roast.
Keep the fan clean. Extractor fans collect grease and dust, which reduces airflow and can make the motor overheat. Once a month, turn off the power, remove the cover and brush away the grime. A clean fan stays quiet and lasts longer.
Watch the dishwasher filter. Food particles that sit in the filter cause blockages and bad smells. Pop the bottom rack out, unscrew the filter, rinse it under warm water and slide it back. You’ll notice cleaner dishes and fewer error codes.
Don’t overload. Whether it’s a washing machine or a dishwasher, cramming too many items strains motors and water pumps. Follow the manufacturer’s load limits – your appliances will thank you with fewer breakdowns.
When to Call a Pro
If your oven won’t heat, start by checking the element and the thermostat settings. A quick visual inspection often spots a broken heating element, but if the oven still stays cold after a reset, it’s time to call a technician. Over‑the‑counter repairs for a 20‑year‑old oven can be costly, so weigh the repair estimate against buying a new, energy‑efficient model.
Hob issues follow a similar pattern. A burnt electric hob can sometimes be cleaned with a specialised hob cleaner, but a cracked surface or a non‑heating zone usually means the glass or the element needs replacement. If you’re comfortable swapping a loose element, follow the safety steps: unplug, remove the hob, disconnect the wires, and fit the new part. Otherwise, a professional can do it in under an hour and guarantee the work.
For dishwasher problems, listen for strange noises or water that doesn’t drain. A clogged pump or a faulty pump motor are common culprits. These parts are cheap, but accessing them can be messy. If you’re not confident with the disassembly, a qualified repair service can fix it in a single visit, preventing water damage to cabinets.
Finally, any sign of sparking, buzzing, or burnt smells from an extractor fan or oven signals an electrical fault. Turn the appliance off at the breaker and arrange a certified technician. Messing with high‑voltage parts without proper training is risky and can void warranties.
Stick to the daily cleaning habits, keep an eye on wear‑and‑tear parts, and know when a professional’s help saves time and money. Your kitchen will stay reliable, and you’ll avoid the stress of a sudden breakdown right before dinner.