Maintenance is the key

We all depend on machines that help us carry out our daily work smoothly — whether it is chopping, churning and grinding food stuff, washing clothes and vessels, or surviving hot days with cold air. Home appliances have therefore become an important part of our lives. But we need to understand the fact that the only way we can ensure the durability of these machines is if we maintain them well. 

Ravi Bhat, national head-service, Godrej Appliances has formulated a few steps to take care of the home appliances like the AC, refrigerator, microwave oven and washing machine to keep them running for a long time and to optimise their use.  

Beat moisture
Dust attracts moisture which can lead to fungal growth in the appliances. To avoid that, one must clean the appliances with a dry cloth every other day. 

Slight condensation of air on outer surface, door and gasket area of the refrigerator is a normal phenomenon. This condensed water is due to high ambient humidity; however it is advisable to wipe this with a dry cloth as and when possible. Use dry cotton clothes for cleaning cavity/ outer body of the appliance. 

Beware of short circuit and electric shock
Don’t try to operate with wet hands; there is a high risk of electric shock. Install the machine in an appropriate area. Keep the machine away from high humid area, it may cause a short circuit. Beware of water leakage from the windows, ceilings etc. Never install the machine in balcony / open area. Make sure to use standard electric power supply. Earthing must be verified as it prevents short circuit. 

Service your appliance
Getting your electrical appliances serviced regularly is important, even if you don’t see any fault in them. After sale service is essential to keep your appliance safe and secure, so that the appliance can be used in the most optimum condition. Also watch out for unauthorised service providers on the internet who claim to be providing service from the brand. Make certain that the visiting technician is wearing brand uniform and check for his/ her identity card to avoid frauds and any damage to the product.  

Don’t leave your appliance unused 
Excessive moisture can jam or damage your appliances, hence leaving the appliance unused for a long time can result in damage of its functioning. So, it is imperative to not keep any appliance unused for a long period of time and use them at least once in a week. In case, your air conditioner at home is kept unused for too long, regular preventive maintenance is recommended. For any other home appliance, be it microwave oven, washing machine or refrigerator, you need to ensure proper cleanliness and correct power supply before switching them on.

Ensure accurate temperature settings
For air conditioners and refrigerators, reduce the temperature setting as the one used during summer won’t work in winter. Defrost the chest freezer before monsoon as tendency of frost formation will be more in monsoon.

So take these necessary precautionary measures and ensure a good durability of home appliances.