Seasonal Appliance Maintenance Checklist: Get Ready for the Holidays

The holiday season means full houses, big meals, and non-stop laundry — and your appliances are about to work overtime. To avoid unexpected breakdowns when you need them most, it’s smart to give your kitchen and laundry appliances a quick tune-up before the festivities begin.

This seasonal maintenance checklist will help you prep your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and washer/dryer for peak performance during the holidays.

1. Refrigerator: Keep Food Fresh and Drinks Cold

• Clean condenser coils: Dust and pet hair can make your fridge work harder and less efficiently. Unplug it and use a coil brush or vacuum to remove buildup.
• Check door seals: Worn or loose gaskets let cool air escape. Close a dollar bill in the door, if it slides out easily, replace the seal.
• Empty and wipe shelves: Toss expired items and clean shelves with mild soap and water.
• Set temperature: Keep the fridge at 37–40°F and freezer at 0°F for ideal performance.

2. Oven and Stove: Preheat for Perfect Holiday Meals

• Run a self-cleaning cycle: Do this at least a week before guests arrive so you have time to address any odors or residue.
• Inspect heating elements or igniters: If your oven isn’t heating evenly, it might be time to replace a worn element or faulty igniter.
• Check the oven thermometer: Use an oven-safe thermometer to confirm accuracy. If the temp is off by more than 25°F, recalibrate or replace the sensor.
• Clean stovetop burners: Remove and soak removable parts to eliminate clogs and improve flame performance.

3. Dishwasher: Keep Holiday Dishes Sparkling

• Clean the filter: Remove food debris that can cause poor cleaning results.
• Run a vinegar cycle: Pour a cup of white vinegar into an empty dishwasher and run a hot cycle to eliminate odors and buildup.
• Inspect spray arms: Clear out any blockages with a toothpick or small brush.
• Check the door gasket: Ensure a tight seal to prevent leaks during large loads.

4. Washing Machine: Handle the Post-Holiday Laundry Rush

• Clean the drum: Run an empty hot cycle with washer cleaner or vinegar to remove detergent buildup.
• Inspect hoses: Check for cracks, bulges, or leaks — and replace if older than five years.
• Wipe the door gasket (front-loaders): Prevent mold and mildew by keeping it dry between cycles.
• Leave the door open: Airing out your washer helps prevent odors and bacteria growth.

5. Dryer: Prevent Lint Buildup and Improve Efficiency

• Clean the lint trap: Do this after every load for safety and faster drying.
• Check the vent hose: Make sure it’s not kinked or clogged — restricted airflow can cause overheating.
• Inspect the drum belt: If you hear squeaking or thumping, the belt may need replacing.

6. Bonus Tip: Stock Up on Replacement Parts Early

Don’t wait for a breakdown mid-holiday. Small components like oven igniters, dishwasher filters, or washer hoses are affordable and easy to replace before they fail.