Home Appliance Tricks to Save You Money
Owning a home can be exciting… until something expensive breaks down! Here are some home appliance tricks to help you save money on your washer and dishwasher.
Keeping a well-maintained home is like keeping a well-maintained car: it usually lasts longer, and requires fewer major repairs.
Your washer and dishwasher are expensive appliances, and five quick and easy home appliance tricks can help keep them running like new.
1. White Vinegar Keeps Your Washer and Dishwasher Clean
Don’t underestimate the power of white vinegar. It’s cheap, non-toxic, and highly effective. It costs about $2 per gallon, and it will keep your appliances’ drain lines squeaky clean. It will also eliminate the musty odor of a front-loading washer. White vinegar also removes stubborn odors from clothing. Just pour 1/4 cup into every load, every time. For your dishwasher, simply pour it onto the basin floor before every load. For your washing machine, pour it in with the detergent. Every appliance repair technician I have talked to has told me this trick. Washers and dishwashers can break down because of residue-blocked drain lines. White vinegar keeps these drain lines (along with everything else!) clean.
2. Check Your Water Pressure
One of the most common reasons for home appliance repairs are broken hoses, which can be caused by high water pressure. Water pressure gauges cost about $15 at the hardware store. Protect your washer and dishwasher. Test your water pressure each season, and keep the pressure between 40-80 psi.
3. Check Your Water Temperature
If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly, turn down your water heater. Dishwashing detergent does not break down properly if the water is too hot. Keep your hot water at 125 degrees F.
4. Dishwasher: Turn OFF Heated Dry
I can’t think of a good reason to ever use the heated dry cycle of your dishwasher. It’s a huge waste of energy, and it wears out your dishwasher faster.
5. Washer: Do Not Overload
Keep loads well below the “Fill” line. Overloading your washing machine puts too much pressure on the agitator, and wears it out faster. Also, small items can enter and clog the drain lines.
Save Money
When you maintain your washer and dishwasher, you save money on repairs and replacements. These home appliance tricks can also lower your energy bills, and help your appliances to work more effectively.
When it’s time to shop for new appliances, read up on available new appliance rebates. If you have central air conditioning, SDG&E offers deals on smart thermostats. Happy home owning!
