Top Asked Appliance Questions: Part One
/
Commonly Asked Appliance Questions
At Appliance Educator, our goal is to educate homeowners on everything kitchen and bath. As appliance experts, we’re constantly receiving questions regarding appliance operations, maintenance, and tips for purchasing. In our newest blog series, we have compiled the most common appliance questions and answered them for you all in one place!
What Is A Dual Fuel Range?
This is the most common question we receive at Appliance Educator! Dual fuel ranges are stoves that feature an oven that uses an electrical connection and a stovetop that uses a gas connection! So therefore you are using both electrical and gas for your range!
When is The Best Time to Buy Appliances?
This is a great question for homeowners to take into account when buying appliances, as it could help you save big and stay well within your budget! The best time to purchase appliances is over major holidays like Black Friday. Usually, this is when appliance companies run their biggest sales.
What Is The Difference Between Ducted and Ductless Range Hoods?
Ducted or vented range hoods duct outside of your home, while ductless or non-vented range hoods recirculate back into your kitchen! Typically, ductless hoods have a special type of filter that needs to be replaced depending on how often and what you cook! Be sure to check with the appliance brand’s specific requirements for ductless range hoods.
Should I Choose Gas or Electric Appliances?
Choosing between gas or electric appliances is mostly based on preference. However, make sure to check that you have the capabilities either way! Depending on where you live, gas appliances can be cheaper in terms of utility cost. Electric appliances are typically better for more precise temperature control, however, gas ovens may cook more evenly. In terms of cost, gas appliances are usually a bit cheaper.
What is a Convection Oven?
Simply put, a convection oven has a fan and exhaust system that a regular oven does not. The fan and exhaust help to blow hot oven air over and around the food, then vent it back out. This hot air surrounds the food so that it cooks evenly and more quickly.
How Do I Clean My Oven?
Follow the steps below for a simple and easy way to clean out the inside of your oven:
Fill a medium-sized, oven-proof mixing bowl with water.
Cut two lemons in half and place them in the bowl, then heat your oven to 250 degrees. Then, place the mixing bowl inside on one of the racks. Leave for one hour.
After an hour, turn off the oven, open the door and let it cool. While the oven is still warm but not warm enough to burn you, put on gloves, take a damp cloth and wipe down all surfaces.
How Do I Clean My Microwave?
Microwaves can be very tricky. One of our favorite methods is to use lemon juice. Follow our steps below to efficiently clean your microwave:
Mix one cup of water and the juice from one lemon, including the lemon itself
Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes
Once finished, leave the door closed for 15 minutes to let steam breakdown any build-up
Remove the bowl from the microwave (be careful handling, as the bowl will be hot!)
Remove the turntable inside, and wipe the interior with a damp sponge or rag
How Do I Clean My Dishwasher?
Clear the drain: Make sure to inspect the drain for any remaining food that may be stuck in there.
Put Vinegar in the dishwasher: Make sure the dishwasher is empty, and place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the upper rack of the machine. Make sure the dishwasher is running on a hot water cycle, and this will get rid of grease and odors.
Lastly, sprinkle about a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot-water cycle again.
How Do I Clean My Stainless Steel Appliances?
Check out our in-depth blog on cleaning stainless steel appliances here!
How Do I Fix A Leaky Faucet?
This is a great question!
The first thing you should do is make sure the water is turned off, and remove the handle.
Using a crescent wrench, loosen the packing nut in the handle assembly, then remove and set aside.
Then pull out the cartridge straight up. Be sure to check to see if your model needs a specific tool!
Next, make sure the area is clean and dry, and replace any O rings that look damaged or worn. Make sure to reach out to the manufacturer for the correct part. Then insert the new cartridge.
Lastly, reattach the faucet handle.
How Long Will My Appliances Last?
Gas Ranges: 13-15 Years
Dual Fuel Ranges: 13-15 Years
Range Hoods: Around 14 Years
Dishwashers: 6-10 Years
Microwaves: 7-9 Years
Who Do I Call if I Need Services on My Appliances?
The first place to go is to contact your appliance brand's customer service team! Their representatives will be the most knowledgeable about the appliances you’re interested in and can lead you in the right direction.
Thanks for reading our first round of your top asked appliance question! If you want your question answered on the next installment of this blog, message us on our social media platforms listed below!
Facebook: Appliance Educator
Instagram: @appliance_educator
Twitter: @app_educator
YouTube: Appliance Educator
