Tag: washing machine

How to take care of your appliances in the summer?

Posted on by info@techreach.io

Summer is here and with it rising temperatures which can cause damages to your everyday appliances. So, how can you care for your appliances to make sure they survive and last long after the summer ends. 

Appliances make everyday life easier to manage and cut chore time so you can spend more hours enjoying your holidays and staying cool in the heat. That’s why it’s important to observe a few suggestions in order to care for your appliances in this season. 

Let’s focus on taking care of the most used and common appliances:

Refrigerator and freezers 

This is the basis of summer comfort in any home, having a cold drink or ice cream at hand is going to be a lifesaver during the hottest months of the years, so keep this appliance ready and working with the tips below.

  • Keep the door gaskets clean, so it shuts properly and seals the cools airs inside.
  • Avoid opening the door too often.
  • Don’t overload the appliance, check your model’s manual for an approximate amount you should keep in there.
  • Cleanth refrigerator coils to maximize power.
  • Clear out old food to avoid bad smells and wasted space.

Washing machine 

Washing machines get a lot of work during the summer. Since we sweat more, we swim, we run and we go out a lot more. Meaning there are more clothes to wash, more changes something might break and need repairing. Here what you can do to keep your running smoothly. 

  • Leave the door open after washing so the inside dries, preventing bad smells from appearing. 
  • Wash smaller loads, especially if you are washing items with lots of first or sand in them.
  • Clean your filters and drum. 
  • Use the right amount of detergent.

Televisions

This is another one of those appliances that get a lot of attention during the summer, whether it’s the kids watching their shows or family movie night, you’ll only need to keep an eye on a couple of things to take care of your TV in the summer.

  • Try to place your TV in the shade so it doesn’t get heated up by direct sunlight.
  • Securely mount it and place it away from children to avoid accidents.  

Dishwasher 

Having family over, a BBQ, or just don’t feel like washing the dishes after dinner, here comes the dishwasher to save the day. Just like the other appliances on the list, dishwashers have their work cut out for them in the summer. Avoid the disaster of a broken dishwasher and follow these simple tips. 

  1. Keep your door gaskets clean 
  2. Clean your filters.
  3. Run the dishwasher with hot water, vinegar or dishwasher cleaner at least once a month. 

Happy summer! 

A quick guide to fixing common appliance problems: washing machine, dryer, and more!

Posted on by info@techreach.io

Everyone needs help sometimes, especially when it comes to household problems. Having a bad appliance day can really put you in a tight spot so it always helps to have this knowledge in order to handle the small stuff yourself. If it’s a bigger issue, one that you don’t feel confident fixing yourself, you’ll notice pretty fans and the best thing is you already know who to call. 

First, here are some basic tips when approaching any appliance issue:

  • Try to run a cycle of work for washing machines, etc to see or hear what the issue is. 
  • Only take this on when you have time, doing repairs in a rush or leaving them halfway done is not a good idea. 
  • Have all your tools ready to go. 
  • Clear the space where you are going to work, things might get messy. 
  • Unplug the appliance, always.

Ok, with those ground rules you’ll be good to start. 

Dryers 

A dryer that is not drying properly, meaning it’s leaving your clothes wet or moist because it’s not generating enough heat or maybe not starting, can be fairly simple to repair. Here are three things that could be happening. 

  1. If the appliance is not starting you should check your circuit breaker, it could just be that the breaker for this outlet flipped. Dryers require a lot of power so breakers are more likely to flip when you are using them regularly. 
  2. Your door actuator may need to be replaced, this spring loaded rod is situated to push against the door switch, keeping it closed and trapping the hot air inside. This piece is easy to replace and not expensive. 
  3. A clogged air filter could be obstructing hot air from reaching the inside of the dryer so clean or replace it, same with the vent. 

Dishwasher

Dishwashers are one of the most used and helpful home appliances, so having it out of service can be a drag. Here are some things you can try to fix the most common dishwasher problem. 

  • If your dishwasher is leaking regularly. Try cleaning the debris and obstructions around the door to fix this. Remember, to include the door gasket and recheck to see if the seals are intact, if they are broken change them. 
  • One of the top causes of problems with dishwashers is a clogged filter, it can cause the appliance to pool with dirty water, not wash properly and leak out into your kitchen. To fix this appliance issue, first locate the filter, usually at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, remove, soak in soap or vinegar, clean and put it back. 

Refrigerator

The fridge is at the center of the kitchen proper functioning so it a really important piece of your home, take a look at some quick fixes for the most common refrigerator problem:

  • Noisy fridge, get it leveled or place it on a special, a type of dense soundproofing mat. 
  • Not cool enough or leaking, check, clean or replace the door seal to help trap in cold air and prevent leaks. 
  • Still not cold enough or leaking, check the drainage tube at the bottom of the refrigerator, you can clean this with a mix of baking soda and vinegar, with the help of some warm water. 

Washing Machine

Washing machines have made the heaviest task at home as easy as pressing a few buttons and waiting, so it’s a real bummer when yours isn’t working properly. 

  • If your front loading washing machine wont turn on, try checking the lid strike switch on the door, this needs to be able to move freely to let the appliance switch on. Turn a washing cycle on and then push the blunt end of a pen into the receiving hole on the appliance. This should loosen any obstruction and allow it to fill with water and wash. 
  • If your washing machine is just not moving you can check your directional cogs in the plastic agitator and replace them, you can also try a factory reset using your owner’s manual. 
  • For an issue with draining, you can clean the pump that helps drain the unit to free it from debris that could be causing the obstruction. 
  • Other things that can help is not overloading the washing machine and using less detergent. 

A guide to the best appliance brands

Posted on by info@techreach.io

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

Posted on by info@techreach.io

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!

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

Laundry tips that can help alleviate your allergies

Posted on by info@techreach.io

Allergies are a common affliction for many people. So, it’s normal that those that have them or know someone that does are always looking for ways to prevent or alleviate their effects. Did you know there are ways in which your laundry can help with that?

That’s right, doing your laundry in a certain way can help reduce the frequency of flare-ups in your allergies or at the least cut down the strength of the allergies. 

Here are some laundry tips that can help with your allergies 

Dust Mite control with washing 

Dust mites are one of the main causes of allergies and even asthma. This minuscule creeper and its droppings cause a lot of trouble in your home where they can rest on fabrics of couches, sheets, and other household fibers. The good news is you can get rid of them by washing sheets, comforters, and other items frequently in hot water. For the fabrics you can’t wash use an allergen sanitizer spray or vacuum.

Keep mold and mildew out of your laundry room and closets 

These two are definitely enemies of all homes, not just because of allergies but many other problems that come with their presence. 

To avoid having mold or mildew in your home and laundry room: 

Keep your washer and dryer clean 

These appliances work with water, dirty fabrics, and detergents so they get dirty, more than you can imagine. 

Here’s what you can do:

  • Clean your dryer lint filter after every load 
  • Clean your dryer filters often 
  • Wipe the inside of your dryer drum 
  • Use the cleaning cycle of your washing machine or do a no clothes cycle using hot water add vinegar/washing machine cleaner every month or two weeks, depending on how much you use it.
  • Clean the door of the appliance 
  • As a general use, if the washing machine, dryer, or laundry room starts to smell is time to clean and check for a leak.
  • Always clean the washing machine after using it to clean outdoor or pet items. 

Use hypoallergenic detergents or natural ones 

A very straightforward suggestion is to choose hypoallergenic detergents to use on your fabrics to reduce allergies or natural chemical-free options.

Common Appliance Issues and How to Fix Them

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There are a ton of things that can go wrong with appliances, so why not get some inside knowledge on the best quick fixes for appliance problem that you can do yourself before calling the experts 

Washing Machines 

Washing machines are one of the most essential appliances ins any home, also one of the most expensive to replace, so before sounding the alarm try these tricks yo get yours going again.

No draining, there could be a clog in your draining pump, check your manual, and once you know where it is you can detach and clean. 

Washing machine not cleaning properly, do light loads with fewer clothes and try using less detergent that can cause particles to not wash away properly. 

Dryers 

A dryer is the washing machine’ss best companion, especially as the weather gets colder, and having warm clothes feels like a blessing, thankfully there are some very simple fixes for when things go a little wrong with your dryer.

One quick tip is to always we extra careful when fixing a dryer these appliances are high in voltage so keep that in ming

If it won’t turn on, check your electricity switch first and then move on to check the appliance with expert help. 

Not heating enough, clean your lint filter that could be clogging the hot airflow.

Dishwasher

A dishwasher saves so much time that having your run into trouble can really put a crack in your schedule, one of the most used appliances for all households, take a look into Maydones tricks for this wonderful machine.  

Leaking, clean the seal as debris could be preventing it from closing completely or replace them with new rubbers.

Water pooling inside, clean your filter a clogged filter could be the reason. 

Don’t hesitate to call for help 

If none of these tips help or you feel like your appliance issue is bigger than any of these tricks can fix, don’t hesitate to call the professional for help, avoid getting in over your head, and potentially putting your appliances at risk.

When to Replace your Top Appliances

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All good things come to an end, it’s no different with your home appliances. Once you can trust it or the trouble isn’t really worth it, you must go to the market for a new one. To help you gauge that time frame here are some guidelines. 

Refrigerator 

Your fridge is one of the most essential appliances in your home, you need it to be reliable, sturdy and up to par.

How do you know when to replace it?

  • If it’s older than 10-15 years; just based on energy consumption levels and basic appliance lifetimes, it’s probably time to get a new refrigerator. 
  • If you’ve had to fix it more than 5 times in the years, unless it’s accident-prone, you need to get a new one. 

Dishwasher 

These home appliances usually have good decades worth of use time. Remember to take care of and clean your dishwasher regularly. Plus only use experts when you need repairs. 

Washer & Dryer 

If you take care of these properly they can last up to 12 years, while it’s in your home you’ll probably need to replace some part and give it some professional services, but it’s worth it. 

When you call a trusted repair company, like Maydone, speak freely with your repair person and ask them if it’s better to replace altogether. 

Air Conditioner & Furnaces 

These two don’t go hot and cold, a comfortable 10, to even 12 years is a good approximate durable life for an AC unit or a furnace, again hire quality service and clean your units periodically. 

Tips For Setting Up Your Laundry Space

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Whether you have a big or small home organizing is the best way to make the most of it, if you want to make your washing more effective then take these tips for setting up your laundry room into consideration. 

Stack It Up 

Having your washing machine and dryer stacked done on top of the other saves a lot of room, this is especially helpful for smaller houses or apartments. 

Remember, it can be difficult for shorter people or those with disabilities, so take that into consideration when you decide whether to stack them or not. 

Staking up the washer and dryer can be one of the most effective tips for setting up your laundry space 

Put Up Shelves Or Roll Them 

Another top tip for your laundry space is to have all your needs, like washing machine detergents and fabric softener, on a shelf. 

That way you can just reach out for them when you are putting in a load and store them immediately. If you don’t have space on the wall to place the self, consider getting a rolling one, that you can put away in a nearby closet after use. 

Get Hampers

This tip for your laundry space makes everything look better, you can organize both your dirty and clean laundry, you can even have individual hampers for each member of the family for even more order. 

There you go, now you have all the top tips for setting up your laundry space, and for repair and installation, you can count on Maydone! 

3 Easy homemade detergent alternatives

Posted on by info@techreach.io

For those days where you forget to go to the store, and for those who are leaning toward a more green way of life, here are 3 easy homemade detergent alternatives you can make on your own. 

There are a lot of benefits to making your own detergent alternatives:

  • You can control what in it
  • Pick your own scent or leave it plain 
  • Saves money 
  • Help the environment 
  • It’s a fun family project 

The fast powder

A great and very fast homemade detergent alternative you can make in about 5 min. 

What you’re going to need 

  • 1 bar of soap (you can choose your scent here) 
  • 3 ¼ cups of borax
  • 3 ¼ cups of washing soda 

How you do it

Save down the bar of soap and stir together with the rest of the ingredients for 15 min, you can also use a food processor or blender to make a finer powder. 

Store in a tightly sealed container and wash away! 

Liquid clean 

Get these 

  • 1 cup Eco Nuts* berries (approx. 2 oz)
  • 4 cups Water
  • 1/2 cup Vinegar (natural preservative)

Do this

Measure and mix in a big pot, let ingredients reach a boil, and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Squash the nuts so they mix with the rest of the ingredients. 

Cover and leave for half an hour, after that take the cover off and let sit in low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

Turn heat off and with a mesh strainer move mix into a glass container to let cool. 

Store away your homemade detergent alternative until needed. 

Gel mix 

You need

  • 1 soap bar 
  • 2 cups washing soda
  • 2 cups borax powder
  • Essential oils for scent (optional) 

And then

Grate the bar of soap and put in a pot, add 1 litre of boiling water to the pot, put it in medium-high heat and let it melt together 

Add 3 more liters of water, and mix in the washing soda and borax, after it has dissolved let it rest overnight.

Break any clots you find the next day and add your favorite essential oil to your homemade detergent alternative for a great smell! 

For extra washing machine care call Maydone, for 24/7 emergency repairs, installations, and most appliance needs!