Keeping your appliances well-maintained is the well-known secret to making them last long — and the same goes for the appliances in your garage! Sometimes, it’s easy to forget these appliances since they’re not part of the main house, but they need more care than you think! Since garages are typically not well-insulated, they’re more affected by the seasons, which means your appliances are, too.
So, whether you keep a second refrigerator, an extra freezer, a beverage center, or your laundry appliances in there, don’t forget them on your maintenance list!
Beverage Center & Refrigerators
Unlike the refrigerator appliances in your kitchen, the ones in your garage have a tougher job — they have to face extreme outdoor temps like those summer heat waves and winter freezes. And if they’re not well-maintained, it can lead to spiked energy bills and thawing in the freezer!
So, to combat the seasonal shifts, you can do a few things. One way is to create a small, insulated area or install a heating or cooling source (depending on the season) to help maintain the temperature around it. But you can use simpler options like a fan or dehumidifier to control the moisture.
And don’t forget the standard maintenance tips like cleaning the coils, checking the door seals, optimizing the temperature and thermometers, and making sure each one has optimal ventilation and air circulation!
Pro Tip:
The best way to keep any appliance ventilated is to leave 1 to 2 inches of space on each side, 3 to 4 inches between the back of the appliance and the wall, and keep at least 1 to 2 inches of clearance on top!
Deep Freezers & Upright Freezers
Deep freezers and upright freezers are great for extra storage, but they face challenges, especially in a garage. So, they’re going to need some extra TLC! For instance, regularly defrosting and cleaning them prevents ice buildup, which can make them run less efficiently and strain your energy bill!
And don’t forget to watch the temperature and thermostat to ensure it’s running at the right setting. To check that your freezer is at the optimal temperature, follow these steps: Place an appliance thermometer near the middle of the appliances and wait 8 hours (or 24 for more precision). If it shows higher than 0°F, adjust the freezer's temperature control and check again after 24 hours. If it’s not reaching the correct temps, you need to replace or calibrate some components — but leave that to appliance service pros like us!
Pro Tip:
Keep your freezer well organized with bins, shelves, and labels so the air can circulate freely and prevent freezer burn or frost buildup!
Washing Machine Care
For your garage's washing machine, timing is everything, especially if the space is uninsulated. During the winter, washing machines face risks of frozen pipes and sluggish performance when the temperatures drop into extreme cold. So, to avoid that, save doing the laundry for the warmer times of the day.
But in the summer, extreme temperatures (like during heat waves!) can cause the machine to overwork. So, it’s best to do laundry during the cooler times of the day, and don’t overload the machine!
Also, make sure to keep the washing machine door open after each load, inspect hoses regularly, clean the lint filter (yup, washers have those, too), and keep the machine level!
Pro Tip:
Remember to clean and maintain the washer every 30 cycles to keep it in shape—or call appliance techs like our team to do a maintenance refresh!
Dryer Maintenance
If your washer needs extra care in the garage, does that mean the dryer does, too? It sure does! As temperatures drop below 41° Fahrenheit, your dryer becomes less efficient, leading to extended drying times and damaged components. So, it’s vital to do regular maintenance, like cleaning the lint filter and exhaust vent.
In peak summer heat, your dryer can overheat and become a higher fire risk. To avoid that, try doing the laundry early in the morning or evening and avoid overloading the dryer so it has proper air circulation.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to have your vent system cleaned out at least once a year by professional service teams to prevent lint buildup!
General Safety and Efficiency Tips
Maintaining the safety and efficiency of your garage appliances is crucial for their longevity and your peace of mind. So, it’s essential to follow these general tips!
- Electrical Safety: If you have a GFCI circuit, regular checks are vital as they can trip and shut off power, potentially spoiling food. Always keep flammable materials well away from appliances to minimize fire risks.
- Heating in Extreme Winters: In bitterly cold conditions, consider installing a heater in your garage. This helps maintain a stable temperature, preventing your appliances from overworking and ensuring they run efficiently.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is essential, especially around coils and vents, so check to see if there’s enough space. And if you use your garage for activities that produce sawdust or other particles, keep it away from your appliances!
- Mold and Mildew Prevention: Dampness can be an issue in unfinished garages, so keeping the seals of your refrigerators and freezers clean is crucial to prevent mold and mildew from spreading.
- Cleanliness: Keeping your appliances clutter-free is essential, so organize your garage essentials and leave plenty of space around each appliance. And remember to regularly clean the area around them to prevent dust and debris from clogging vents and coils!
Even with diligent care, periodic professional servicing is invaluable for long-term health and efficiency. And our service team at Dick Van Dyke Appliance World can do just that! We can spot potential issues early, perform precise maintenance, and ensure your appliances run optimally!
So, if your appliances need servicing, don’t hesitate to call or drop by!