Clean the dryer lint filter every load, the dishwasher filter about once a month, the fridge coils twice a year, and the dryer vent at least once a year. These four habits prevent many of the repairs we see.
Every Time You Use It
- Dryer: clean the lint filter before every load.
- Front-load washer: leave the door open a little after each wash so the drum can dry.
- Cooktop: wipe up spills once the surface cools, before they burn on.
Every Month
Every 3 to 6 Months
- Fridge water filter: many makers suggest a new filter about every six months.
- Fridge coils: unplug the fridge and vacuum the condenser coils about twice a year.
- Door seals: wipe the fridge, freezer, and dishwasher seals, and look for cracks.
- Dryer sensor: wipe the moisture sensor strips inside the drum with a little rubbing alcohol.
- Washer hoses: check for bulges, cracks, or drips. Many experts suggest replacing rubber hoses about every five years, or switching to braided steel hoses.
Once a Year
- Clean the full dryer vent duct from the dryer to the outside.
- Pull appliances out a little and check behind them for leaks or damage.
- Make sure your washer sits level so it does not shake or walk.
- Check the gas connector behind a gas range or dryer for kinks or damage.
- Test oven temperature with an oven thermometer before the holidays.
A Seasonal Checklist for New Jersey Homes
| Season | What to do |
|---|---|
| Spring | Clean window AC filters and coils before the first hot day. Vacuum the fridge coils. |
| Summer | Clean window AC filters about once a month. Keep garage fridges shaded and give them room to breathe. |
| Fall | Clean the dryer vent before winter. Test your oven before holiday cooking. Check how your garage freezer handles the first cold nights. |
| Winter | Check garage freezer temperatures often. Make sure snow and ice are not blocking the outside dryer vent. |
A Quick 10-Minute Monthly Routine
Pick one day each month, like the first Saturday, and run through these steps:
Signs an Appliance Needs Attention
- New noises, like grinding, squealing, clicking, or loud humming
- Water on the floor near the fridge, washer, or dishwasher
- A burning smell from the dryer or oven
- Cycles that take longer than they used to
- An error code that keeps coming back
- A fridge or freezer that runs all the time
Catching these signs early often means a smaller, simpler repair. Waiting can turn a worn part into a bigger problem.
Found a Problem?
If something does not look or sound right during your checks, call us before it turns into a bigger repair. We repair every major appliance, from refrigerators to dryers and dishwashers.
We repair every major appliance from all major brands, including Whirlpool, GE, LG, and Bosch. Our technicians come to homes in East Brunswick and nearby towns like Old Bridge, Spotswood, South Brunswick, North Brunswick, South River, and Milltown. See all service areas or how to reach us. For more tips, browse all our appliance repair guides.