Tag: appliance tips

New Kitchen 101: How to choose between a cooktop or a range top?

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So, you are getting a new kitchen or changing an old appliance. First, congratulations! New kitchen appliances are one of the best investments homeowners can make, it’s also one of the biggest because these appliances tend to be pricey and your decision will most likely affect your whole cooking space for good. 

One of the hardest parts of getting your new cooktop or range, besides a proper installation, is knowing which option is right for your home needs. So, let the expert guide you through some of the finer points that can help you make the final call.

How much room do you have?

It’s generally advised that smaller kitchens be equipped with a range over a cooktop. Ranges tend to be more high end and can end up needing a lot of space. The determining factor here will be your ability to fit what you want into what you have. A thing to consider is  a model of cook or range tops that leaves some space below the instalacion on the counter space for other purposes. 

What are your cooking habits?

If you are more of a casual chef or have smaller meals or cooking needs then a cooktop should meet all your requirements and save you space, maybe some onet too! 

Now, if you want the pro kitchen feel, to feed plenty and make your master chefs dreams happen, indulge in a good rangetop, these also tend to be sturdier, fit larger pots and pans, but they can also run on the pricier side. 

What about ovens?

This is a big question to ask yourself, if you are a fan of baking then getting an oven will also take up space from your kitchen. So, take a closer look at a model that would let that be easy to install as well. 

Pro’s and con’s of cooktops

Positives 

  • You can get them to work with gas, electric, or induction models
  • Can be safer for families, the control knobs are on the top of the counter making it hard for kids to reach.
  • Cooktops tend to be priced lower than range tops
  • Smaller size, leaving more free space in your kitchen 
  • The whole appliance sits atop the counter and can have a stylish finish to your kitchen. 
  • Cooktops tend to be easier to clean 

Negatives

  • Normal cooktops don’t have all the bells and whistles of range tops and can be quite plain in comparison
  • The small size may be an issue for homes that needs to meet a lot of cooking demands
  • Since controls are at the top, they can sometimes be difficult to reach when you have pots on and you might burn yourself doing so

Pro’s and con’s of range tops

Positives 

  • Range tops are usually more powerful and can come in models for electric or gas use
  • They are very sturdy, built for heavy use. 
  • More cooking space and able to fit larger pans and pots.
  • The knobs are placed in the front, making it more comfortable to cook with 
  • Range tops have more professional settings and features 

Cons

  • They can take up quite a lot of space
  • Installing a range top can require a lot of work on your cabinets 
  • The knobs being placed in the front may require you to place safeties if you have small children 
  • Range tops can be more expensive 

What is the best time to buy an air conditioner and how to choose an AC unit?

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So, temperatures are climbing and you want to get a jump start on finding the perfect Air Conditioner, let Maydone help you out with these tips on getting your AC at a lower price and picking the right unit for your home appliance needs. 

Get a jump on the off season 

The best time to go ahead and get a brand new air conditioner unit is usually in the colder months of the year so winter and spring are your best options for finding these appliances at a lower price in any store. But that’s not all, you also can take advantage of special sales and other appliance tricks. 

  1. Black Friday is an optimal date to go shopping for an AC or any other appliance, so keep track of those dates. 
  2. Cyber Monday is a smaller ‘digital’ Black Friday 
  3. Seasonal summer deals have become more common so keep an eye out for those 
  4. Special event sales for labor day or other dates 

How to choose an AC unit that’s right for your home? 

One of the main issues when picking an air conditioner is power. Meaning how much power and what size will work to keep the right temperature in your home. Plus, whether a window unit or central is better for your needs. 

Here are some things to consider:

  • Window units are cheaper and easier to install 
  • Central air systems can also function for heating purposes 
  • Central air require professional installation and more work usually 

When it comes to power these references may help:

  • A small room of about 100-300 square feet would require a potency of around: 5,000 – 6,000 BTU*
  • A medium room of about 250-550 square feet would require a potency of  around:  7,000 – 8,200 BTU
  • A large room of about 350-950 square feet would require a potency of around: 9,800 to 12,500 BTU

*BTU is a British thermal measurement unit that is commonly used for air conditioner appliances, the higher the number the more the power it has.  

How to install a new air conditioner unit?

If you want to go ahead and install your new AC unit yourself you will have to carefully read the models instruction manual and follow every step carefully, to get you started do this:

  1. Prepare the area where the unit will be placed by cleaning and clearing the space. 
  2. Get all your tools together before starting. 
  3. Make sure to have another person helping if the unit is heavy. 
  4. Watch tutorials when possible. 
  5. Have materials ready to clean up any mess. 
  6. Install with power cutoff in order to avoid electrical accidents. 

Call Maydone!

One of the best ways to take care of your new investment is to have top rated professional technicians handle your AC installation. This way you make sure things are in order and that you are all set to enjoy your new air conditioner. 

Maydone has been in business for several years with tons of experience, great reviews and it also offers 24/7 repair service in the Greater Toronto Area. 

What to consider when installing a new appliance?

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Getting a new appliance can be a challenging experience, not only do you have to navigate the thousands of options in the stores but you also have to consider the installation process after you make your decision. There are many aspects of the installation to take into account so get started here and hopefully it helps in your appliance journey! 

Finding the right appliance 

First thing first, you need to find the right appliance for your needs and home. That means researching models plus brands, maybe going to stores to see them in person and finally getting the one for you. There are a ton of good brands you can turn to when in doubt and try to keep a style in mind so it fits with the rest of your decor and other appliances. 

Have confidence in your skills 

One of the most important aspects of installing a new appliance is being confident enough in your skills to do so. Because you are dealing with potentially delicate equipment and your home, you need to be sure you can do it. Get an idea of what the work entails before embarking on it. 

Make sure you have all the tools you need 

Depending on the type of appliance you are installing you will need different tools to get the job done. You might need other tools for installing a dishwasher than you do an AC, so do your research and get organised beforehand. 

Prepare your home as well 

Make sure your home is ready to install the new appliance, this means having the right power outlets or drains, plus making sure the appliances fits correctly. Don’t forget the clean up required after installing. 

Disconnect and read the instruction manual

Getting your old appliance out is as important as getting the new one in. You’ll need to carefully remove the old appliance in order to keep the space, outlets and cords in good shape so you can reuse them if you need to. Best way to go about this is to read the instruction manual that comes with the appliance or get some help from online tutorials. 

When to call for appliance installation help?

Call for help when you need to, so you can prevent damage to your new appliance and your home. There are some things you can do by yourself, and that’s perfectly fine! Calling technicians that have more experience and do this for a living is always a right answer to appliance installation problems. 

Get proper disposal for your old appliances 

Say goodbye to your appliances the right way. If they still work you can donate them to those in need or pass them on to someone looking for an appliance. If they are out for good, do your research to see what is the best appliance disposal service in your area. Avoid getting fined for overlooking this small detail and enjoy your new appliance! 

A guide to the best appliance brands

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When looking for a new appliance you want to do your research on the brand behind the machine, in order to get the best for your investment and be sure it will last. The names on this list you have probably heard of but it doesn’t hurt to see where that brand you like actually stands. 

Appliance brands have a lot of competitiveness to deal with, something which only helps customers more. Because they have to improve and be better than each other in order to get your dollar. Another fact you’ll be happy to hear is that Maydone works and know all these brands well, so we are still the top choice for repairs and installation. 

At the top is Whirlpool

Whirpools quality and durability make it a stand-out brand for those looking for new appliances. The company came out as a leader in surveys as the most reliable brand, just trailing behind LG in a few consumer reports in 2019. But it still maintains its spot at the top of the list. 

Keep in mind that the bigger Whirpool Company is also behind other smaller brands like KitchenAid, Maytag, Amana, Jenn-Air, and Consul.

The brand is especially known for its washing machines and large kitchen appliances. Whirlpool is not your flashy, with lots of buttons and extras appliance brand, but lasting and sturdy. 

Second, on the list is LG

LG is better to know for technology and other electronics, but its appliances have earned a lot of high rankings. It places at the top of the ratings in all of these markets: washing machines and dryers, dishwashers, oven ranges, refrigerators (french door and top mount). According to the J.D Power appliance report.  

Two things to remember when choosing LG. 

  1. Higher tag prices, this is the bell and whistles appliances so the price will be higher than more modest models. 
  2. They have a ton of bad reviews online, but at a closer look, most of them have more to do with issues other than the product. 

Number three is Samsung

Samsung is at the top of luxury appliance brands so they will give what you are looking for with a big price tag. If you want to go extra, this is the brand for you. Because Samsung does extra space, extra features, and extra design better than most. They get a lot of hype for the refrigerators especially. 

Four is Bosch 

In that same J.D Power rankings, Bosch was right in second place behind LG for a lot of the categories. Good quality appliances, with great perks. The German brand has a great reputations with cooktops and wall ovens in particular, also with noting is the oven range microwaves too. They sure are hot stuff in the kitchen. 

Bosh provides appliances that look good, with useful extras and solid warranties. 

Get the right team for any appliance

One of the most important parts of choosing an appliance is to make sure it’s compatible with the technicians you trust, to get the right installation crew, and keep an eye on the details. 

How to Perfectly Install a New Dishwasher?

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Dishwashers have been around for decades making life at home easier and speeding up the process of dealing with dirty dishes and big dinners. That’s why dishwashers are one of the preferred appliances of most homeowners, and why you should take all the care in installing yours correctly. 

If you decide to go at this yourself because remember you can always trust a professional crew to handle your new dishwasher installation with just one call, then you need to be fully prepared to get the job done right! 

Here are some tools you’ll need to install a dishwasher: 

  • Multiple screwdrivers 
  • A wrench that can be adjusted 
  • A level
  • Some pliers
  • A voltage tester

Plus, a few extra that can come in handy:

  • Wiring materials that match what you have 
  • Tape 

Measure everything to start installing or replacing the dishwasher

While most dishwashers are 24 inches wide you still need to measure to be sure the space that you have is right for the appliance you are installing. So take out the measuring tape and write things down. 

If you are changing sizes in appliances you might need to alter your cabinets and kitchen layout, this will require additional work, so keep this in mind when choosing a new dishwasher. 

Sometimes the extra layers of flooring can raise the floor heigh directly in front of the old dishwasher which can cause difficulties in removing it, for this, we recommend losing the counter or even removing the flooring. If this seems like a step above what you wanted to go, consult a professional installation team. 

If you don’t find any of these issues, then get something to cover and protect your floor while you remove the old dishwasher and get started! 

You’ll also need the other tools mentioned before, plus a bucket and rags to collect any discarded water from the drain lines after you disconnect them. 

Fully turn off your old dishwasher and unplug it, cut off the water to the appliance by shutting the nearest valve. 

Completely disconnect the old dishwasher 

 You will need to remove the front panel from the old appliance, then disconnect the wires and pull the cable box out. Both water and electrical connections are underneath the dishwasher behind the first panel that you will unscrew. 

Always check with your voltage detector in order to make sure the power is completely cut off and it’s safe to work on. Now the water supply usually comes from a copper or stainless steel line, you will need to remove a nut that secures it at a 90-degree angle and you can keep the parts if they look to be in good condition. Make sure to remove with care, slowly and in the same direction the new dishwasher will need ti to be so you don’t damage the waterline. Clean any water residue and you are good to go. Now. you can remove the old dishwasher. 

Get your new dishwasher ready and installed 

Unbox your new appliance according to instructions and get started. Inside you will find additional manuals and more instructions, read those before carrying on. Remember to use the new drain hose that comes with the new dishwasher. 

Lean the dishwasher on its back and connect the 90-degree fitting. To prevent any clog issues look the flexible drain line up to the countertop. You might need to check your own plumbing codes since some require a special air gap fitting in the drain line.  

Connect and go! 

Now all that’s left is connecting the power and water supply. This needs to be done carefully, especially the copper line so it doesn’t leak. Align it so it goes in straight at the threaded part of the elbow. Then connect the appliance to electric power. 

Once, you are done connecting turn both power and water on, check for leaks or issues. Make sure the position is good, when satisfies, screw the dishwasher or secure it to the countertop and done! 

The Ultimate Guide for Fixing Common Refrigerator Problems

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Refrigerators are amazing tools for keeping food fresh, they are one of the most used appliances in any home and fundamental to modern comforts. When your refrigerator breaks down you could be looking at a serious problem for your day-to-day routine, and while you can always call experts, there are some solutions to the most common refrigerator problems you can try on your own first. 

The refrigerator is over freezing 

A refrigerator that cools too much is also an issue that can affect the quality of your food so its important to address it fast, here how you can do that: 

Take a look at your damper 

The damper, which is controlled by the thermostat, is a compartment that allowed or prevents the flow of cold air, so one stuck in open could be the cause of your cold problem. 

Get a new thermostat 

The thermostat is a central piece of your refrigerator, they control and set the temperature as you want it, before replacing it make sure is set at an appropriate temperature. If you need to replace and install a new one, check the model on the instructions manual, back, or inside the door of the fridge to get the correct one. 

Here’s how that replacement can be done:

  • Unplug the fridge first, for safety. 
  • Locate the cooling compartment and open it. 
  • Remove the cover, you might need a screwdriver for this, then also remove the plastic control assembly cover. 
  • Once you are there proceed to gently lift the other cover, You will see the thermostat, it should be a bronze metal device with copper wired attached and a plastic tube. 
  • Take a picture o the arrangement in order to help you put it together again after. 
  • Extract the old thermostat from the wired and the tube, replace and reassemble. 
  • Follow any special instructions pertaining to your model. 
  • Put the cover back in place. 
  • Done! 

The refrigerator is not cooling 

What good is a refrigerator that won’t refrigerate?

Thankfully there is more than one suggestion to fix this problem, so don’t lose hope.

Check your thermostat 

It may seem too obvious to be the solution, but in homes of 2 or more people, one of them could have changed the temperature setting and just forgotten, easy and fast fix. 

Go over the doors 

Check the door seal are forming a perfect seal that can maintain the temperature inside is key. IF you notice the seals are dirty, damaged, or faulty you can try:

  1. Clean the seal
  2. All some petroleum jelly for better sealing 
  3. Replace the door seals

Clean blockages and condenser coils

There could be items inside the fridge blocking the flow of cold air from passing, clean the fridge out and inspect to make sure. 

Cleaning the condenser coils can also help with cold airflow.

Leaky fridge 

A leaky fridge can be a very bothersome problem and it could even be dangerous, as water can cause people to slip on your kitchen floor. Here what you can do:

Proper sealing 

Check the refrigerator doors to see that the seals are working as they should, to keep liquid and food inside the appliance. 

Empty and clean the drain pan 

The drain pan that is located at the bottom of your fridge could overcapacity and causing a mess. Take a minute to remove and clean it. 

Freezer drain 

Your freezer’s drain could be frozen and causing leaks as it thaws. Defrost it completely and clean it out. 

How to Layout your Washing Machine and Dryer to Create a Top Laundry Room Space?

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Whether you like it or not you are going to spend a lot of time doing laundry, depending on the size of your family you could even accumulate a year in time spent doing laundry. So, why not make this huge, unavoidable task of the home a little easier with the perfect laundry space, let Maydone help you out here! 

First of all, let’s see what you will need for a top Laundry Room:

  1. Washing Machine 
  2. Dryer 
  3. Cabinets for detergents 
  4. Room for dirty clothes 
  5. Flat surface to fold (optional) 

Now lets get down to layout options that could work for you.

If you live small go for – Open Layout 

This form of Laundry Space is smack in between something else, could be part of your kitchen or playroom, maybe the garage. It works for homes that can’t dedicate a whole space for laundry but it can still be functional, how?

  • Create space for your laundry needs for example: add cabinets for detergents, clean or get a cover for surfaces to fold clothes on, etc. 
  • You can multitask and cook while doing a load. 
  • Go for smaller washing machines and dryer so it fits properly 
  • Pick a style and design model that mixes well with your other kitchen appliances.

When in doubt – Hide It Out 

This is great for people that do not want to be reminded of laundry when they are not doing it, and for smaller homes as well. If you have an unused closet, room, or space that can fit your appliances then create your laundry room there and forget about the hassle! 

The advantages of the hidden laundry room are in the name, no one can see it and it still has its one functional space. This can even work in mix with other spaces just hide your washer and dryer with a cabinet if you place them in the kitchen or elsewhere. 

Classic is best – The Galley Layout

This layout is one of the better recognized and most simple. Typically, laundry rooms with a galley layout are small and fitted to tight spaces. Using a small room you fit the washing machine and dryer to one side and use the other for storage, you could also add a sink for handwashing. You can also organize everything into one side with stacked washing machine and dryer sets, plus cabinets and a smaller sink. 

Make it fit you!

The most important takeaway from all these styles is to make the room work for you and your needs. So, whatever layout you choose make sure you put that before any other consideration and remember our numbers if your washing machine or dryer starts acting up. 

Happy Laundry Day!

What To Do When Your Appliances Stop Working?

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Appliances are one part of any home, they make everyday tasks easier to manage and sometimes are necessary for living for example having heating during winter or a cold fridge to store your food. So, it is a big deal when they suddenly or gradually break down. You can always call Maydone for 24/7 repairs in the Greater Toronto Area, but there are also other tricks you can try. 

Unplug and reset

Turning an appliance on and off can seem like a basic tip but it often works, sometimes we overwork the appliances and the machinery needs to cool and restart in order to work properly again. This can work in cases where the appliances are hot and powered off or even smoke came of it. Turn it off, unplug, let it sit, and try to restart after a few hours. 

Check Your Appliance Manual 

Before calling the experts take a look at your appliance’s manual, it can provide a clue on what to do about your particular problem. You could save yourself a headache by just glimpsing in there to see if you can solve the issue on your own. That’s why it’s important to keep those documents even after you’ve been using the appliance for a while, you never know when you might need it again. It helps to keep all manual organized in one place. 

Look For Answers Online 

There are a ton of online resources for fixing minor appliance problems from tutorials to guides and, even forums that can be helpful. There are some key ground rules to follow when taking this route:

  1. Make sure the tips apply to your brand and model appliance 
  2. Use the correct tools for repairing 
  3. Only do what you are comfortable with 
  4. Use original replacements 
  5. Look for help when you needed it 

Get The Right Kind Help 

If you do end up choosing to get someone more experienced to look at and fix your appliance make sure you get the right people for the job. What to take into consideration for your choice?

  • They are professional technicians 
  • They work with your appliance brand
  • Check their online reviews
  • They work with original parts 
  • They offer a warranty 

Trear Your Appliances With Care

After you get your problem fix to remember to take care of your appliances. It doesn’t require much: cleaning it, using it properly, and fixing issues correctly!

How to Create The Perfect TV Room + Top 5 TV’s List 

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Having an entertainment option inside your home has become an increasingly important part of life, as many choose the comfort of home over going out, and spending time watching movies and series is the top choice for most. So, what are the best ways to create a perfect TV room for your home without breaking the bank? 

1.Get a Good TV set and Have it Professionally Installed 

A good screen is going to be the most important part of your movie/entertainment room. Having the best quality image for watching the movies and series you love how you’ve always wanted. 

Why should have it professionally installed?

When you trust the installation of your appliance to the experts you are investing into getting a higher quality experience, as professionals secure your TV properly, take measurements, precautions, and have the tools to get the most from your TV. 

Our Top 5 TV’s List

  1. Best price OLED: Vizio’s OLED 
  2. Low price tag but feature-packed: The Samsung TU8000 series
  3. Price and performance: Series Hisense H9G 
  4. Top high end: LG CX 
  5. Next-gen: Sony XBR-X900H series

Maydone Tips on Choosing the Right TV

  • Take measurements of the room, there is such a thing as too big 
  • Make sure it fits your space
  • Secure to a wall or buy furniture to support the screen 
  • Test the quality in the store
  • Read reviews on the TV model 
  • Get a warranty 
  • Get professional installation

2.Get a Mini Fridge

Want to take your movie nights to the next level? Then get a mini-fridge and stay stocked with your faves while binge-watching!

A mini-fridge provides a touch of luxury and fun to any entertainment space, plus it really makes a difference when watching live events. No time wasted or missing a play to get your drink refilled.  

3. A Great Couch or Sitting Arrangement 

This one depends mainly on what your preference is: watching alone, with family or having company? This will determine the number of seats you’ll need to think about. 

Most people lean towards having a comfy couch that can mean loss of space for one or two and also fits visitors when needed. 

4.Get Creative 

One of the best parts of creating a movie room is that you can be a little more creative and free with the decor. Include elements from your favorite movies or shows, photos, games, and any other detail you feel fits into the mood of the room. The sky is the limit here. 

Best Kitchen Appliances For Smaller Homes

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New living preferences and a changing world, have resulted in a change with housing options, with homes and apartments getting smaller in order to accommodate for new demands whether being able to fit more people in a city at a smaller price or being environmentally conscious about space. Even with all the new specs having a small kitchen doesn’t mean you can’t have the cooking power you want, discover how to have the chef’s appliances you want without overcrowding your space with Maydone. 

Companies and appliance manufactures have always been working towards making appliances more convenient, even with their size, so there should be no shortage of options to fit your kitchen space. 

Plus, there are so many benefits to smaller appliances:

  • Less heavy, so its easier to get out and put away 
  • Easy to move around
  • Facilitates packing when moving
  • Less stuff to clean when you are done 

Now, let’s get to that list of appliances

Mini Fridges

This one is a super space saver! Having a conventional refrigerator can take up so much of your kitchen space and it might not make sense for your lifestyle. Choosing a mini-fridge instead saves space and can even make you more eco-friendly sense you will have to shop only for what you absolutely need. This is great for mini homes and one-person living. 

Keep this in mind when shopping for one:

Size: yes it’s small, but there are options here to make sure it fits your home and your appetite. 

Doors: for more flexibility and freedom get one with a reversible door. 

Freezer: some mini-fridges have this option. 

Check out: Haier HC27SF22RB 2.7 Cubic Feet Refrigerator/Freezer, Black

Compact Cooktops 

Most kitchen appliances brands now carry a small or compact cooktop line. These appliances come in many formats: gas, electric, or induction, your choice. The best way to go here is to ask yourself what you truly need vs what you think you need. If you are a foodie and love to cook maybe go with the bigger version or the small cooktop, but for the less culinary inclined there are super tiny options that can free a lot of space. Take your time making this decision so you can meet your needs. 

Check out: Search for small cooktops online and discover your options. 

Compact Dishwasher 

Having a smaller space does not mean saying goodbye to the assistance of a dishwasher. This time and water saving appliance can find a place in your tiny home if you know which one to pick. 

Check out: Any dishwasher under 24 inches is considered compact so there are plenty of options to choose from.