How to Extend the Life of Your Home Appliances

Getting more years from your appliances isn't just about saving money — it's also the environmentally smart choice. Regular maintenance and good habits can extend the life of your fridge, washing machine, dishwasher and oven by years. Here's what actually makes a difference.

Fridge

Keep the Condenser Coils Clean

The condenser coils at the back or bottom of your fridge collect dust over time. Dusty coils make the compressor work harder, raising energy use and shortening the compressor's life. Vacuum or brush the coils every 6–12 months.

Check and Replace Door Seals

Worn door seals let warm air in, forcing the fridge to run constantly. Test seals by closing the door on a piece of paper — if you can pull the paper out easily, the seal needs replacing.

Don't Overfill or Leave It Too Empty

A fridge that's too full restricts airflow. Too empty and the fridge struggles to maintain temperature when the door is opened. Aim for about 70–80% full.

Allow Airflow at the Back

Leave at least 5 cm of clearance behind the fridge for heat to escape from the condenser coils.

Washing Machine

Use the Right Amount of Detergent

Too much detergent creates excess suds that the machine has to work harder to rinse, leaving residue in the drum and door seal. Use the amount specified for your water hardness and load size — often less than you think.

Clean the Drum Regularly

Run a drum-clean cycle monthly. This prevents odour-causing bacteria and detergent buildup. Use a machine cleaner or run an empty hot cycle.

Clean the Filter

The pump filter (on front-loaders, behind a panel at the bottom) catches lint, coins and debris. Clean it every 3 months.

Leave the Door Ajar

After every wash, leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open to let moisture escape. This prevents mould and extends the life of the door seal.

Dishwasher

Clean the Filter Weekly

Remove and rinse the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub regularly. A clogged filter reduces wash performance and can cause drainage issues.

Use a Rinse Aid

Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes, improving drying and reducing water spotting. It also protects the machine's heating element and spray arms.

Run a Monthly Hot Cycle

Run the hottest cycle with a dishwasher cleaner (or a cup of white vinegar on the bottom rack) monthly to descale and clean the interior.

Oven

Clean Spills Promptly

Don't let spills bake on. Fresh spills are easy to wipe. Baked-on grease is much harder, requires harsh chemicals or a pyrolytic cycle, and can smoke and smell during future cooking.

Use Oven-Safe Cookware

Using wrong materials (like some plastics or foils directly on the oven floor) can damage the oven's enamel coating.

Check the Door Seal

The oven door gasket wears over time. A failing seal lets heat escape, makes the oven work harder and costs more to run. Inspect it annually and replace if cracked or brittle.

Need a Replacement Appliance?

When maintenance isn't enough, Oceania Appliances has quality refurbished appliances at fair prices with a 3–6 month warranty. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park — open 7 days, 10am–8pm — or browse online for free Sydney delivery.