Most appliance breakdowns do not come out of nowhere. They build from lint, grease, debris, and wear that nobody had time to deal with. A few minutes of care on a regular schedule catches many of those problems early. This checklist is built for the realities of Tallahassee homes: long humid summers, heavy air conditioning use, and pollen seasons that coat everything.
Monthly
Quick habits that take just a few minutes:
- Clean the dishwasher filter and wipe the door gasket.
- Wipe the washer door seal and leave the door open to dry after use.
- Check the refrigerator door gaskets for food residue that prevents a tight seal.
- Wipe up cooktop spills before they bake onto burners or igniters.
Every three months
Seasonal tasks that head off common repairs:
- Vacuum refrigerator condenser coils, especially in homes with pets.
- Clean the washer drain pump filter if your model has one.
- Check the dryer vent hose for kinks and lint buildup.
- Run an empty hot cycle with a washer or dishwasher cleaner.
Before summer
Summer in North Florida pushes refrigerators and freezers hardest. Check that your refrigerator has clearance around it, confirm the temperature settings, and clean the coils. A unit that was just barely keeping up in April can fall behind in July. If you notice long run times or warm spots, our guide to a refrigerator not cooling is a good starting point.
Before the holidays
The oven and range work overtime from Thanksgiving through New Year's. Test the oven with a thermometer a few weeks ahead, check that every burner lights cleanly, and clean the oven before heavy use rather than during it. If something is off, there is still time to schedule oven repair or range repair before guests arrive.
Once a year
- Have the full dryer vent run cleaned, including the exterior termination.
- Inspect washer fill hoses for bulges or cracks.
- Check the refrigerator water line and fittings behind the unit.
- Look under the sink at the dishwasher drain and supply connections.
Know when maintenance isn't enough
Maintenance extends the life of an appliance, but it does not fix failed parts. Symptoms like a washer that won't drain, a dryer that won't heat, or a dishwasher holding water deserve a proper diagnosis. Browse all of our appliance repair services or request service when you need a hand.
Still not working?
Call (850) 755-9600 or send the brand, model, and what the appliance is doing.