Essential Appliance Maintenance Tips for a Smooth, Stress-Free Season
Summer is just around the corner, and as temperatures rise, your home appliances are about to work a lot harder. Your HVAC system will run overtime to keep you cool, your refrigerator will be packed with cold drinks and fresh produce, and your washer will face increased loads from beach towels, workout clothes, and backyard play. Before the summer heat hits full swing, now is the perfect time to prep your HVAC, fridge, and washer for the busy season ahead.
Here’s how to get your home ready with some simple, smart maintenance tips—and when to call in the experts at Xigent Appliance Repair if you need a hand.
Washer Prep: Ready for All Those Summer Clothes
Between kids playing outside, workouts, and extra guests, your washing machine is about to get busy. Preparing now can help you avoid breakdowns and costly water damage.
DIY Maintenance Tips:
- Inspect water hoses: Look for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Replace rubber hoses with braided stainless-steel for extra durability.
- Run a cleaning cycle: Use a washer cleaner or run a hot cycle with white vinegar and baking soda to eliminate buildup and odors.
- Level the machine: An unbalanced washer can vibrate excessively and damage components. Use a level and adjust the feet as needed.
- Check the drain and filter: Some washers have a filter near the drain pump—clean it to prevent clogs and mildew.
When to Call a Pro:
- The washer won’t drain or spin
- You hear loud thumping or banging during cycles
- You notice water leaks or a musty smell
- Clothes come out soaking wet after the spin cycle
At Xigent, we handle washer repairs of all types—top-load, front-load, high-efficiency, and more. If your machine is acting up, don’t wait until it’s full of wet laundry.
Refrigerator Readiness: Keep Your Cool & Avoid Spoiled Food
Your fridge works hardest in the summer. Frequent door openings, warmer ambient temperatures, and heavy usage all take a toll. If it’s not cooling properly, you could end up with spoiled food—or worse, an expensive repair.
DIY Maintenance Tips:
- Clean the condenser coils: Located behind or underneath your fridge, these coils release heat. Dusty coils reduce cooling efficiency. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them every 6 months.
- Check door seals: Worn or dirty seals let cool air escape. Close a dollar bill in the door—if it pulls out easily, it’s time to clean or replace the gasket.
- Clear the freezer vents: Overstuffing your freezer can block vents that circulate cold air. Leave space for air to flow freely.
- Set proper temperatures: The fridge should be 37–40°F and the freezer 0°F. Use a thermometer if your appliance doesn’t have digital readouts.
When to Call a Pro:
- Food is spoiling faster than normal
- Ice is forming in unusual places
- The fridge is running constantly or making strange noises
- There’s water pooling beneath the unit
These are signs your compressor, thermostat, or defrost system might need servicing. Xigent’s experienced technicians can diagnose and fix refrigerator issues quickly—before things spoil.
Summer HVAC Prep: Stay Cool Without the Cost Spike
Your HVAC system is your first line of defense against the sweltering heat. But without regular maintenance, it can become inefficient, noisy, or even break down on the hottest day of the year.
DIY Maintenance Tips:
- Replace the air filter: This is the most important thing you can do. A clogged filter restricts airflow, reduces efficiency, and strains your system. Replace filters every 30–90 days.
- Clean the outdoor unit: Gently spray off debris and dirt from the condenser coils using a garden hose. Make sure plants or weeds aren’t crowding the unit.
- Check vents and ducts: Make sure vents are open and unobstructed. Vacuum away any dust or debris from vents.
- Test the system early: Don’t wait until a heatwave. Turn your A/C on now and ensure it’s blowing cold air consistently.
When to Call a Pro:
- Your unit isn’t cooling properly
- You hear strange noises or smell odd odors
- You haven’t had a tune-up in over a year
A professional HVAC tune-up can improve efficiency, reduce energy bills, and extend the life of your system. At Xigent, we work with trusted local HVAC pros and are happy to make a referral if needed.
Keep It Clean & Efficient All Summer
Appliance performance isn’t just about mechanics—it’s also about cleanliness. Summer brings humidity, which increases the risk of mold, mildew, and odors in your appliances. Make it a habit to:
- Wipe down rubber gaskets and seals regularly
- Leave washer doors ajar to air out
- Use baking soda in your fridge to absorb odors
Don’t Let a Small Issue Become a Big Problem
Routine maintenance goes a long way toward preventing breakdowns—but even the best-kept appliances can fail. If you spot a problem or something doesn’t feel quite right, Xigent is here to help.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout [Salem, Oregon / Willamette Valley – customize as needed] with fast, reliable appliance repairs. Our technicians are courteous, experienced, and ready to help you stay comfortable and stress-free this summer.
Need Service? Call Xigent Appliance Repair Today at 971-342-9001
Or schedule online at https://xigentrepair.com