Tag: tips

How to make your appliances last longer?

Posted on by info@techreach.io

One of the biggest issues when it comes to choosing the right appliances and taking care of them is how to make them last, remaining useful, preventing more expenses for you, and wastefulness. Appliances like most machinery do have life expectancy due to wear on the materials and internal systems, etc. However, you can sometimes extend that time or at the very least make sure to maximize it just by following a few simple tips. 

Appliance life expectancy can be divided into three stages:

  1. Choosing the appliance correctly 
  2. Installing and using the appliance properly 
  3. Picking the best appliance repairs services 

Now let’s take a closer look at each of these stages in appliance maintenance and care.

Choosing the appliance correctly 

This is the first essential step in making sure your appliances last longer, picking the right type of appliance for your home and needs will make it easier for the appliance to respond and last. What do we mean? If you choose a smaller fridge for a big family with lots of food needs, the appliance will have to work harder and might last less. 

Here is a short guide to choosing the right appliance:

  • Make sure it’s the proper size, in terms of making the installation process easier and for it to be able to handle the work you need to use it for. 
  • Check the electrical needs of the appliance, nothing like a faulty electric balance to damage a perfectly fine appliance.
  • Go with energy-saving and eco-friendly, these appliances tend to have more gentle cycles, newer technology and save you money! 
  • Read the reviews on the model, reviews are a good guide on how well the appliance performs and can shine a light on things you wouldn’t know unless you used the appliance for a long time. 

Installing and using the appliance properly 

A good installation is the starting point in having a good long run with your appliances, especially the more intricate the installation like a dishwasher or refrigerator the more important it is. 

To better install a new appliance:

After installation, you will need to make sure you are using your appliances the way they were meant to be used, to avoid repairs and damages. 

How to use appliances properly:

  • Read the appliance’s guide 
  • Use only approved products with it like detergents, etc. 
  • Clean often 
  • Turn them off when you are not using them 
  • Don’t overload them 

Picking the best appliance repairs services 

Appliances break and you have to fix them, that’s just a fact of life unless you get really lucky with the one you buy. Because appliances need repairs, it’s important that you choose the best appliance repairs services to avoid getting bad parts or repair work that can completely damage your appliances. 

To pick the best appliance repairs services:

  • Check the reviews the service has, this is super important as it shows how actual customers feel about the service
  • Make sure they use original parts for repairing 
  • Only call companies with certified technicians 

How to choose a new microwave and the best microwaves of 2021

Posted on by info@techreach.io

Microwaves are often the unsung heroes of the kitchen, a reliable appliance that’s there to quickly get you a warm plate of food or make bigger tasks faster and easier to handle. It’s one of the most used appliances of all homes, especially useful for giving independence to each member, as you can heat or prepare your own meals in reduced time and using less space. 

Because of its usefulness, it has become one of the most demanded appliances and one that should not be missing from your kitchen. So, what should you consider when getting a new microwave.

  • Space: depending on the amount of space your kitchen has you can narrow the model of microwave you will get, they come in many adaptable sizes o that should not be much of a problem. For the sake of this list, we’ll be raking the standard 24-inch microwave model, that will fit in most traditional sized kitchens. 
  • Power: this will determine how much your microwave can do interim of helping you cool, we mean actually cooking beyond heating up leftovers. This will have more to do with preferences and the power outage available in your home.
  • Style: there are all types of microwaves, from the classic appliance look in white, black, or silver to the more high-end models that can rival any other appliance. Make sure it matches or mixes well with the rest of your appliance and kitchen decor.
  • Features: a big one to consider. What will your microwave do? A lot or just enough. Modern microwave models can heat up, defrost, roast, and cook pretty darn well so you may be getting more than you think. Remember more features usually mean a higher price tag so keep that in mind. 
  • Price: simple enough more capacity, features, stylish finished, and fancy brands will mean a pricier microwave. Don’t forget you will still get a lot from a more “normal” microwave. 

Now let’s get to the list of the best microwaves of 2021

The Viking model VMOS501SS

This American brand is known for its durability and high quality, with most appliances lasting well over the double digits in years. With this model microwave, you will also be getting over 13 sensor settings, plus a feature that can help you calculate cooking time and power settings. It has child locking safety, keeps your food warm for at least 30 minutes, and has an easy add minute feature for extra cooking time. 

The Miele model M6260TC

Super-sleek design and great opening which allows for various sices of cookware. As with other Miele appliances you can expect durability and great features, like the Clean Touch Steel™ for easy cleaning and a LED light to put a spotlight on your food. This microwave comes with a ton of extra safety features to protect from misuse and accidents. It has excellent heat distribution and a 15-minute warm function for keeping plates at serving temperature. 

The GE Model PEM31DFWW

The most classic of the models on the list it still has an impressive 10 power level and sensor cooking setting. You can also enjoy an add 30 seconds feature with just a button. A timer to program turns off and on. All of that on top of 800 Watts of cooking potency, for faster meals. It also comes with a safety feature to prevent accidental use. 

What are the best dishwasher brands?

Posted on by info@techreach.io

A dishwasher can be a total game changer for your home. Those 30 plus minutes you can spend washing dishes after a dinner party or being more conscious with your water use. All of this is achievable with just one appliance: a dishwasher! 

Remember than added to choosing the brand, you also have to consider:

  • Space
  • Style matching the rest of your appliances 
  • Installation 
  • Durability 
  • Price 
  • Warranty 
  • Capacity 

Get your features and durability with Miele 

German brand Miele is behind some of the best appliances in the market, with all the bells and shitle you desire from Wifi connectivity to their own app Miele@Mobile, you won’t be missing out on the latest trends with this choice. But what makes Miele stand out amongst  its competition is the promise to bring the best to all their products. Because no matter the price or size range you buy from, with Miele, you will get some cool new features like ergonomic baskets and water softeners from budget to luxury, this brand doesn’t miss the assignment.

Reliable and impressive – Bosch

This brand lives up to every bit of its reputation as a manufacturer of reliable, useful and well designed appliances. These dishwasher’s tend to have a large capacity, great engineering and high quality standard, all you’ve come to expect from the German brand. Do you want more Bosch selling points? They have one of the higher energy star ratings and most of their dishwashers come with EcoSilence Drive motors for more boost at a lower noise level. You want a dishwasher that can stand heavy use, reliable and quiet? This one’s for you!

A classic that doesn’t disappoint – GE 

General electric has been the biggest name in appliances for decades, they are one of the most recognizable and trusted brands out there, for a reason. One of the biggest advantages of GE dishwashers is their huge variety of models, going all the way from portable to professional grade. What they all deliver is on quality and efficiency. A big plus od GE dishwasher is the Piranha™, a food disposer which helps you say goodbye to the pre-rinse. If you can’t device or want a ton of choices then look around the GE catalog and maybe you’ll find your match. 

Now that you know the top 3 dishwasher brands of 2021, here are 6 tips to take care of your new dishwasher:

  1. Get it installed by professionals 
  2. Use the appropriate products for washing 
  3. Read the manual 
  4. Clean the door seals regularly 
  5. Use the self-cleaning setting to clean the appliance 
  6. Call the pro’s when you need repairs

Enjoy your new dishwasher!

How to choose an oven for your home? 

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Ovens are one of the most multi-faceted home appliances out there, offering an incredible range of cooking perks and time benefits. You can bake your favorite sweets, put a timer on a roast and take care of something else, plus so much more with an oven. Because of its popularity, there is a great variety of models, features, and prices, how do you choose the right oven for you? Maydone is here to help!

Here are the factors to take a closer look at when choosing an oven for your home:

  1. Power source
  2. You home’s design style
  3. Cooking variety 
  4. Features 
  5. Size 

Power source 

Your oven is going to need a power source to cook all that delicious food, so what fits your home better. Explore some of the positives for each option. 

Electric 

Gas 

  • Lower long term cost 
  • More heat control
  • Instant activation 

Does it fit your design

There are plenty of options to choose from here and it all depends on your vision for your kitchen and home. Here are some styles to pick from and their perks.

Single Wall

  • Can give more space to play with the layout of the kitchen 
  • Fits easily in most spaces 
  • You can install this oven to match your height 

Freestanding

  • It’s an eye catcher 
  • Comes in many types 
  • Sleecker designs and more compartment 

Double Oven

  • Good for big family needs
  • You can do two things at once 

Slide-in Oven:

  • Fits right in the countertop 
  • Stylist and space saving 

Cooking types 

This is all about what you need your oven to do for you. 

Common oven

  • Can roast, grill meats and veggies. 
  • Bake breads, cakes and more. 
  • Reheat meals 

Convection Oven

  • Does the same a bit faster and might dry foods some. 

Toaster Oven

A smaller alternative to a full oven, cheaper and handy in small spaces. 

  • Competes the same function but in smaller portions. 

Wood Oven

  • Used for pizza and bread making mostly  

Size 

Most ovens range from 27 to 30 inch width. This factor is a case by case call, think about what would benefit your kitchen space, take into account moving about while using it and the heat it produces while working. 

Another important aspect to take into consideration here is capacity, if you need to feed more then go for the bigger sizes, if it’s a smaller household then a smaller oven is fine. 

Features 

Ovens, like other appliances, have experienced a surge in features from voice activation to other smart technologies. Keep in mind the more you get, the higher the price. If it has a timer and enough setting for your cooking desires, then anything else is just an extra.

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 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! 

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! 

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!

The Top Washing Machine & Dryer Sets for 2021 

Posted on by info@techreach.io

Getting a new washing machine & dryer set is a serious investment for any homeowner, so if you want some guidance on how to choose one, keep reading. 

There are a few things that you need to consider when getting you are appliance:

  1. Budget and prices 
  2. The space you have available 
  3. Possible sales 
  4. The capacity of the appliance 
  5. Appliance’s energy efficiency 

Now, that you know what you need to include in your pros and cons list. Let’s take a look at the tip Washing Machine & Dryer Sets for 2021.

The Stand Out – Bosch 1329594

Bosh is a great brand that can offer your home luxury level appliances at good price ranges. The German company focus their products on three principles maintaining quality, technical achievement and trusted appliances. You will get all three of those with this model.

The Best:

  • It has “SpeedPerfect” a faster washing time (up to 40% quicker).
  • AntiVibartion design that produces a more stable wash, reducing vibrations. 
  • ActiveWater Technology makes the most of water usage, by improving distribution, heat and having better pump performance.
  • Timer so you can plan your washes
  • Energy Star certified  
  • Double Filter that catches more flint and is easier to clean 
  • Allergen Cycle a hotter setting that removes allergens like dust mites and germs (62ºC)

The Best Value – Samsung 1271267

Samsung’s model is the cheapest on the list, but it still is a full set with a lot of good details. There is no “luxury” here but it works just as hard as other models. Plus, it has a BIG load capacity: washing machine 4.5 cu. ft., the dryer 7.2 cu. ft.

The Best:

  • Reduced vibration Samsumg innovated on the tub design and added special sensors to keep the washing quiet and balanced, even at top speed. 
  • Gentle close the lids are made to close softly and quietly
  • Smart Care a help center for washer or dryer issues right on your smartphone, you can also just call Maydone.
  • Filter State Indicator to prevent lint build-up 

Price Tag: $1,250.20*

The Classic – Electrolux 767706

Like Bosh, Electrolux has also worked to stay firm in its product expectation: having a good design, quality, top features, and now, sustainability as well. Additionally, the model is also budget-friendly. 

The Best:

  • IQ-Touch Laundry Controls a new innovation of panel control that looks great and is simple to use.
  • Perfect Balance System for a balanced and quiet wash 
  • Luxury-Quiet Sound System one of the most sounds reduced dryer’s out there 
  • More drying circles for custom dry experience 
  • LuxCare Lint Shield catches lint so it doesn’t get on your clothes 
  • Energy Star Certified 

Price Tag: $1,516.20*

*Prices will vary

Top Fireplace Maintenance Tips

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It’s still cold outside and that means taking care of your fireplace so you don’t feel it inside. Fireplaces can become the center of a household during the winter months, they prove warmth and a beauty to look at, but if you don’t maintain them properly they can also become a headache. So, take a look at this ultimate fireplace maintenance tips list that way you can keep your fire going all winter long. 

Find and Fill the Cracks or Gaps the Firebox Brick Mortar 

With the passing of time and usage, there are cracks and gaps that appear in your fireplace, most specifically inside of it. The heat generated by the fire makes the construction material expand and contract causing it to loosen over time, so it’s important to keep an eye on loose bricks and debris falling from the fireplace. The heat generated by the fireplace might be leaking and escaping through the gaps. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Only repairs with no fire and a cool fireplace. 
  • Inspect for any loose bricks or noticeable cracks. 
  • Use a fireplace mortar or refractory caulk to fill in the gaps. 
  • You can clean off the gaps with a compressed air can and place the new filling with a simple putty tool.

Only Use the Right Wood in your Fireplace 

The quality of heat you get from your fireplace is directly related to the type of wood you burn, and so is the maintenance upkeep of the appliance. Using the wrong kind of wood can lead to a dirtier fireplace and cause you to need to clean it more often, it can also make the fire burn faster and heat last less. 

Avoid using softer types of wood that burn quicker, and also leave finer ash that is very difficult to clean. Stay clear of:

  • Cedar
  • Poplar 
  • Balsam 
  • Spruce 

Instead, use these types of hardwood that are recommended for fireplace fires:

  • Oak
  • Ash 
  • Birch (offers a more constant and hotter temperature)
  • Maple

Check out your Flashing and Repairs Damages 

Before you install your fireplace you should have placed a metal flashing that runs between the fireplace chimney and your roof, this prevents water from going into your home from there. This procession could be damaged or torn causing vulnerability to your fireplace and your home. Inspect it to see it intact and fix any damage you find for a better fire.

Clean up your Chimney 

Fireplaces are beautiful, cozy, and powerful heat sources but they are also messy! Having a fireplace means you have to clean that fireplace, especially the chimney. The residue left behind by wood burn, called creosote, can be a dangerous accelerant for fire. Creosote is the main cause behind chimney fires, one of the most serious fireplace accidents you could have in your home. To prevent it, all you need to do is properly clean your chimney correctly and timely. You can buy your own cleaning supplies and do it or get professional cleaners. It’s also essential to clean the ashes from the firebox after every fire to minimize risks and get your chimney assessed by a professional at least once a year, preferably twice before using it in the winter months and after the cold. 

These tips should help you keep the fire going and stay cozy until it warms up again!