Many of us have visitors during the winter months. Because of the colder weather, and the increased crowds at movie theaters, malls, and restaurants, many families and their guests choose to stay in, preparing their own meals, playing games, watching movies, and reminiscing. As a result, household appliances often get quite the workout! Are your appliances ready for the winter season?

Appliance Lifespans

All appliances have a lifespan which varies based on brand quality, frequency of use, and environmental conditions. Here are the average lifespans of the largest household appliances:

Kitchen Appliances

• Refrigerator – 14 years
• Dishwasher – 9 years
• Microwave Oven – 9 years
• Oven/Range:
  • Gas — 10-18 years
  • Electric — 13-15 years
  • Range Hood – 14 years
• Freezer – 10-20 years

Laundry Appliances

• Washing Machine: Top Load – 10-15 years
• Washing Machine: Front Load – 8-12 years
• Clothes Dryer (Gas or Electric) — 13 years

Regular maintenance for large appliances extends their longevity. Ensure that you keep appliances clean inside and out, especially any grates, filters, coils, screens, vents, gaskets, and drip pans. Watch for signs of wear or damage and address these quickly. What are some common indicators that maintenance is required?

Appliance Red Flags

Replacing and fixing damaged parts keeps your appliances running without the need for major overhauls or replacement. Here are some problems to look for:

• Reduced efficiency – For example, the oven is not heating to the right temperature, the refrigerator or freezer is not keeping things as cold or frozen as it used to, and the clothes dryer is taking longer to dry your clothes.
• Loud noises – Knocking, screeching, scraping, buzzing, clicking, and rattling are sounds that point to worn out belts, bearings, and compressors, or possibly just loose parts.
• Leaks – Look for water leaking from the refrigerator, freezer, or washing machine.
• Odd smells – Odors coming from heating appliances that are clean, such as ranges, ovens, microwaves, or dryers, are a red flag. Somewhere, a part is overheating! A smelly dishwasher, wash machine, or refrigerator is usually an indication of mold growth due to leaking seals or pooling water in a hidden location.

Determine the cause of the above problems quickly! Contact River City Appliance Repair to eliminate the issue and extend the life of your device whether under warranty or not.

Ready, Set, Entertain!

Don’t let your appliances cause you headaches during this busy winter season! Inspect your appliances and ensure that they are performing well prior to your guests arriving. Bring any concerns to River City Appliance Repair. We provide prompt diagnoses and repairs of most makes and models of large kitchen and laundry appliances. Warranty or no warranty, we are here to help you enjoy your winter season!