Top 10 Most Common Appliance Mistakes Australians Make
After years in the appliance business, we've seen the same mistakes made over and over. These are the ones that cost people the most money, shorten appliance lifespans, and cause the most frustration.
1. Using the Wrong Detergent in a Front Loader
Front loaders require HE (High Efficiency) low-suds detergent. Using regular top loader detergent generates excessive suds that can't be rinsed away properly, leave residue on clothes, and over time damage the machine's pump and seals. This is one of the most common causes of premature front loader failure.
2. Overfilling the Washing Machine
Stuffing the drum completely full prevents clothes from moving freely, reduces washing effectiveness, and stresses the motor and bearings. Fill the drum to about 80% capacity. For bulky items like duvets, check that they're suitable for your machine's capacity.
3. Never Cleaning the Washing Machine Drum
Bacteria, mould, and detergent residue accumulate inside washing machines, particularly front loaders. Run a hot, empty drum clean cycle (or a cycle with washing machine cleaner) monthly. This prevents the common problem of clothes smelling musty after washing.
4. Putting a Fridge Directly Against the Wall
Fridges need airflow around the condenser coils (usually at the back or bottom). Without adequate clearance, the compressor runs hotter and harder, reducing efficiency and lifespan. Allow at least 5–10cm clearance behind, and 2–5cm on the sides.
5. Never Cleaning the Air Conditioner Filter
A dirty AC filter reduces cooling output by 20–40%, increases electricity use, can cause the system to freeze up, and may damage the compressor over time. Clean filters monthly during heavy use periods. It takes 5 minutes.
6. Setting the Fridge Too Cold
Setting your fridge colder than necessary (below 1°C) uses more electricity, may partially freeze items near the back and sides, and doesn't provide any additional food safety benefit. The ideal fridge temperature is 3–4°C.
7. Ignoring Washing Machine Pump Filter Cleaning
Front loaders have a pump filter (accessed via a small flap at the bottom front) that collects lint, coins, buttons, and debris. If this filter isn't cleaned every few months, it blocks the pump, causing drainage errors and potentially damaging the machine. This is an easy maintenance task most people don't know about.
8. Running AC on Heating When You Should Cool (or Cooling When Hot)
Sounds obvious, but many people leave their AC on the wrong mode or at an inappropriate set temperature, wondering why the room isn't comfortable. Set temperature to 24°C for cooling in summer, 20–22°C for heating in winter, and always confirm you're in the correct mode.
9. Buying an Appliance That's Too Small for the Family
An undersized fridge or washing machine works harder, wears out faster, and creates constant frustration. It's better to invest slightly more in the right size appliance upfront than to replace a struggling undersized unit in 3 years. We help customers size correctly every day.
10. Buying on Price Alone
The cheapest fridge or washing machine at a big box store may be the most expensive over its lifetime if it breaks down in 3 years. Consider running costs, reliability, and warranty alongside the purchase price. Quality second-hand appliances from reputable stores often represent better total value than the cheapest new alternatives.
Visit Oceania Appliances for Honest Advice
Oceania Appliances
2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
Phone: 0481 243 211
Open 7 days, 10am – 8pm
Free delivery across Sydney