Unpacking what really makes something an 'appliance'—from toasters to washing machines—plus useful facts and expert tips to help you spot, buy, and maintain them.
Types of Appliances: What You Need to Know and How to Keep Them Running
When you hear “appliance,” you probably picture a fridge or washing machine. But the world of home appliances is bigger – it covers everything from a built‑in oven to the handheld kettle on your countertop. Knowing the different groups helps you decide how often to service them, when a repair makes sense, and when it’s time to move on.
Big appliances you’ll find in most homes
These are the heavy‑duty machines that usually need a professional every few years. Refrigerators and freezers keep food fresh; a worn door seal or a noisy compressor can raise your energy bill fast. Washing machines and dryers tackle bulk laundry – look out for leaky hoses, drum bearings, or heating element problems that often show up after 4‑6 years of use.
Dishwashers save you time but love a clogged spray arm or a failing pump. If the water isn’t heating, the element could be the culprit. Ovens, stoves and hobs are the heart of the kitchen. Electric hobs may develop cracked glass tops, while gas hobs can develop faulty burners. A broken heating element in an electric oven usually means a quick part swap.
These large appliances share a few maintenance habits: clean filters regularly, check seals and hoses for wear, and schedule an annual service if the manufacturer recommends it. A simple inspection can catch a small issue before it becomes a costly breakdown.
Keeping your appliances running longer
Small appliances – think microwaves, toasters, kettles, blenders, and extractor fans – are easy to overlook, yet they add up in daily convenience. Most of them benefit from a quick clean after each use. For example, a microwave’s turntable should be wiped down to avoid food buildup that can cause uneven heating.
Extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms collect grease and dust that slow the motor. A quick motor clean every few months restores airflow and prevents overheating. If a fan stops, check the power supply first; a tripped reset button is often the fix.
Gas appliances like boilers or gas hobs need a certified service at least once a year. A Gas Safe engineer will check for leaks, test the flame, and make sure the ventilation is proper. Skipping this can lead to safety hazards and higher fuel costs.
When deciding whether to repair or replace, consider three things: age, cost of the part, and how often the appliance fails. A 10‑year‑old stove that needs a new burner might still have years left, but if the control board is gone, replacement could be cheaper in the long run. Similarly, a 7‑year‑old washing machine with a busted drum often makes more sense to replace than to repair.
Bottom line: group your appliances by size and function, clean them regularly, and keep an eye on the biggest culprits – seals, hoses, and heating elements. A little upkeep now saves you from a sudden breakdown later, and you’ll keep your home running smoothly without surprise repair bills.