Town Appliance Official Blog

While appliances undeniably make our daily lives more convenient, owning an appliance goes beyond just making a purchase. Unfortunately, there are common myths surrounding appliance maintenance that can not only drain your budget but also potentially lead to damage, despite the energy efficiency of modern appliances. In this article, we aim to debunk these myths and provide you with accurate information about proper appliance maintenance. 

It's important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to appliance care, as following misguided advice can have detrimental effects on your appliances and your wallet. From debunking myths about cleaning methods to dispelling misconceptions about energy consumption, we will shed light on common appliance maintenance myths to ensure you have the knowledge needed to take care of your appliances effectively. By busting these myths, we aim to empower you to make informed decisions and adopt proper maintenance practices that will keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Rinse Your Dishes Prior to Washing - Not!

Many appliance maintenance resources often recommend pre-rinsing dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. However, this practice may actually be costing you money. Dishwashers and detergents are designed to work most efficiently when dishes are dirty, contrary to popular belief. Detergents rely on the presence of food particles or grease on the dishes to activate their cleaning power. The level of dirtiness determines the detergent's performance, ensuring a thorough cleaning. Additionally, dishwashers employ sensors that detect the water level during the cleaning cycle. These sensors assess when the dishes are clean, allowing the appliance to adjust the cycle accordingly. Therefore, it is crucial not to pre-rinse your dishes as it interferes with the dishwasher's ability to determine the appropriate cycle length. It's important to note that an average Energy Star certified dishwasher only uses around four gallons of water for a complete cleaning cycle. In contrast, pre-rinsing dishes can consume up to twenty gallons of water. Considering that a dishwasher uses five times less water than pre-rinsing, it becomes clear that it is more efficient to scrape off any leftover debris from the dishes rather than pre-rinsing them. Plus, using the dishwasher as intended allows the appliance to operate optimally and achieve the desired cleaning results. To ensure the best performance of your dishwasher, it is recommended to scrape off large food particles before loading the dishes. This simple step prevents clogs in the dishwasher and promotes efficient cleaning. However, it is unnecessary and wasteful to pre-rinse or wash the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. Embracing these guidelines will help you make the most of your dishwasher's capabilities while maintaining a sustainable approach to appliance maintenance.

Put More Detergent to Clean Better - Not!

While it is true that modern washing machines have become more water-efficient, we must also pay attention to the amount of detergent we use. It's a common misconception that using more detergent will result in better cleaning. However, this approach can actually have adverse effects, such as leaving a layer of leftover detergent on dishes or clothes. Using an excessive amount of detergent not only fails to enhance the cleaning process but can also reduce the performance and lifespan of your appliances. Too much detergent can lead to excessive sudsing, causing the machine to work harder and potentially leading to mechanical issues over time. To achieve optimal cleaning results and ensure the longevity of your appliances, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding detergent dosage. Using the correct amount of detergent, based on the load size and soil level, is crucial for effective cleaning without leaving behind any residues. Also, it helps maintain the quality of your clothes and dishes by preventing the build-up of detergent residue. It's important to remember that more detergent does not equate to better cleaning. So, let's stick to the old fashionable "less is more" and embrace the practice of using the correct amount of detergent for a more effective and efficient cleaning experience.

Clothes Are Properly Washed Only In Hot Water - Not!

Everyone's desire is to have impeccably clean and pleasantly scented clothes, and we are well aware that rewashing is not the solution. This leads to the myth that clothes cannot be washed effectively using cold water. However, modern washing machines are designed to provide efficient cleaning across a wide range of water temperatures, including cold water settings. Contrary to the myth, cold water wash cycles can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors from your clothes. In fact, washers today are equipped with advanced technology that ensures thorough cleaning even with cold water. These machines are designed to optimize detergent performance and agitate the clothes effectively, resulting in clean and fresh-smelling garments. Moreover, it's important to note that a significant portion of energy consumption in washers is attributed to water heating. Using colder water temperatures can reduce the energy consumption and lower the cost of washing. In fact, approximately 90% of the energy used by washers is dedicated to heating the water. Therefore, opting for cold water wash cycles not only saves energy but also helps you save on your utility bills. With advancements in detergent formulations and washing machine technology, cold water washing has become an efficient and cost-effective method for achieving clean and fresh laundry. It not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of your clothes by minimizing wear and tear caused by higher water temperatures. So, the next time you do laundry, consider the benefits of washing with cold water.

Save Money By Keeping an Old Refrigerator- Not!

There is a common misconception that keeping an old refrigerator in a different area of the household can save money when renovating the kitchen. However, this is far from true. In reality, using an old refrigerator can lead to significant costs in terms of electricity consumption, which is often much higher compared to a new, energy-efficient refrigerator. Older refrigerators tend to be less energy-efficient due to outdated technology and lack of modern features. They consume more electricity to maintain the desired temperature and can result in inflated utility bills. On the other hand, newer refrigerators are designed with advanced energy-saving features, such as improved insulation, efficient compressors, and smart temperature control systems. These features contribute to reduced energy consumption and lower operating costs over time. Investing in a new energy-efficient refrigerator may seem like an upfront expense, but it is a wise long-term investment. The energy savings achieved through lower electricity consumption can offset the initial cost of the appliance, leading to significant savings over its lifespan. Additionally, many energy-efficient refrigerators are eligible for rebates and incentives, further reducing the overall cost. It's important to consider the total cost of ownership when making decisions about appliances. While keeping an old refrigerator may seem like a cost-saving measure in the short term, the higher electricity bills can quickly outweigh any potential savings.

At Town Appliance, we understand the importance of proper appliance maintenance and debunking common myths surrounding household appliances. Our aim is to provide accurate information and guidance to help you make informed decisions and care for your appliances effectively. With the convenience of online shopping, you can browse and purchase a wide range of household appliances, including washers, gas dryers, electric dryers, refrigerators, and more, from the comfort of your own home. At Town, we offer a diverse selection of energy-efficient appliances that not only enhance your daily routines but also save you money in the long run. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive reliable appliances that will serve you for years to come. Take advantage of the convenience and accessibility of your favorite online appliance retailer - Townappliance.com to find the perfect appliances for your home today.