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Some simple tips and maintenance ideas that can ensure smooth operation of most gadgets.
Tip No. 1: Better safe than sorry
On an average, worldwide, 2000 children are killed every day due to accidental injuries related to electrical appliances.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International
Here are a few helpful habits:
- Read the instructions carefully before you use an appliance for the first time. For instance, the maximum voltage that can pass through an appliance should be less than the voltage your domestic circuit operates on.
- Keep your work area dry and wipe your hands dry before you plug-unplug your appliances.
- Do not over-heat your mixers, grinders, vacuum machines, etc. If you smell a wire burning, immediately disconnect the power and look for the source of the issue. Seek help from a qualified wireman.
- Don't yank an electrical cord from its socket or you might end up damaging the cord, the appliance or the plug.
- Do not leave your appliances running unattended for a long time. If you cannot be around, it is safer to switch off and start again when you get the time.
- Keep your children away from the appliances, wires and sockets at all times.
- Never wrap the cord around the appliance while it is still hot.
Tip No. 2 to 5: Care Tips for Major Domestic Appliances
2. For your Cool Gadgets
Uneven external walls can affect the performance of your window AC
- Moisture can damage the contact between an air conditioner and the metal frame of the window. Therefore, each time you switch on the AC, make sure that the contact is sealed and no cool air escapes the room. Opt for a yearly maintenance contract to enhance the efficiency of your AC.
- Keep the refrigerator on levelled flooring and ensure that the gaskets lining its doors are clean. These steps will ensure that the door shuts properly, leading to more efficient cooling and power saving.
- For refrigerators that require manual defrost, do so once every two months at least. This will prevent excessive ice formation in the cool box, which might prevent the door from shutting properly.
3. Microwave Ovens Cleaning Tips
- Make sure the door of the microwave shuts properly. Also check for damages to the door seal, oven cavity and inside surfaces after every use.
- Clean the grime from the insides of your microwave regularly by placing a microwaveable bowl with diluted dishwashing liquid. Heat it at a high temperature for a few seconds. Alternatively, you could heat wet paper towels. The steam will settle on the grime layer and wiping it off becomes very easy.
4. Washing Machine Safety Tips
- Since a washing machine wobbles during every wash cycle, ensure that it is placed on levelled flooring.
- Clean the door and liquid fabric softener dispenser regularly with hot water and diluted vinegar or bleach.
- Excessive wobbling of your machine could be a result of clogged drainpipes. Make sure you clean them every few weeks.
- Do not use too much detergent and avoid fabric softeners as much as possible.
- Avoid overloading as it can cause the machine to become imbalanced and leave the clothes unwashed due to lack of rotation space.
5. Keeping your Electric Irons Clean
- Keep the bottom of the iron clean, especially if you are using it after a scalding incident. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the iron if necessary.
- Plan your ironing for the week and iron clothes in bulk so that you do not waste power heating and reheating the iron for a few clothes.
Simple, regular and vigilant care for your appliances, could keep them in good shape, for a longer time.
