In this video, repairman Richie Isaacson shows host Kevin O’Connor how to maintain kitchen appliances.

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Steps for maintaining appliances

  • Be sure that the pull-out racks on a dishwasher don’t interfere with the spinning spray arms.
  • Before starting the dishwasher, check to make sure that there isn’t any silverware blocking the spray arms.
  • Don’t lay large pots or pans flat against the lower rack; they’ll block the water spray and prevent other items from getting washed.
  • Turn on the hot water at the kitchen sink and wait until it runs hot, then turn it off and start the dishwasher.
  • Be sure to use the appropriate dishwasher detergent, and fill both the prerinse compartment and main compartment. Shut the cover on the main compartment before closing the dishwasher door.
  • Occasionally remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher and rinse it clean.
  • Check the float switch inside the dishwasher to confirm that there’s nothing blocking it from moving up and down freely.
  • If a drinking glass breaks inside the dishwasher, remove all bits of glass with a wet/dry vacuum.
  • If water remains in the dishwasher after the cycle is completed, check for a partially clogged drain hose.
  • To clean the refrigerator condenser, start by unplugging the refrigerator. Then use a condenser brush or a radiator brush to clean away all trapped dust and dirt. You could also use a vacuum to suck or blow the condenser clean.
  • Use warm, soapy water and a sponge to occasionally wipe clean the rubber gasket (the door seal) on the inside of the refrigerator and freezer doors.
  • Increase the airtightness of door seals by coating them with a thin layer of petroleum jelly.
  • If the water line running to the ice maker is frequently clogged, solder on a copper T-fitting, add a ball valve, and replace plastic tubing with flexible copper tubing.
  • If an electric range has a broken or burned-out heating element, unplug it and replace with a new heating element.
  • After using the oven’s self-cleaning mode, wait for the oven to cool down, then vacuum or wipe clean the inside of the oven.
  • Never use spray-on oven cleaner in a self-cleaning oven.

Tools

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Tools & Materials

  • Wet/dry vacuum

  • Propane torch

  • Tubing cutter

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