How to take care of your appliances efficiently

Below, you’ll find both general and specific maintenance tips for the most common household appliances in Spanish homes.

General tips for taking care of your appliances

To keep your appliances working at their best, extend their lifespan, and save energy, it’s important to take extra care of them.

• Regular cleaning is key. Keeping your appliances clean prevents dust and dirt from building up, which can affect their performance over time.

• Review the user manuals. We know we all tend to skip it, but following the manufacturer’s instructions ensures you’re using your appliance correctly and safely.

• Unplug when not in use. Unplugging devices prevents standby energy consumption and protects against potential damage from power surges or sudden outages.

• Allow for proper ventilation. When installing new appliances, it’s tempting to place them in tight spaces. However, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial to avoid overheating when using them.

• Professional maintenance. As consumers, it’s our responsibility to regularly check our appliances ourselves to ensure everything is working properly.

Still, if you notice any issues or worn parts, call a qualified technician to address them as soon as possible to avoid early breakdowns.

Guide to caring for and maintaining your appliances

Homes are full of appliances that get daily use. Due to their variety, each requires specific care and maintenance. So here’s a breakdown of what to keep in mind:

Refrigerator

Keep the temperature right. It’s best to set your fridge between 3°C and 5°C and your freezer at around -18°C.

Make sure the doors close properly to prevent cold air from escaping, which can lead to potential malfunctions.

Another way to keep your fridge in top condition is to clean it regularly to control ice buildup. We also recommend dusting off the condenser coils every six months to a year to improve energy efficiency.

Washing machine

Keeping your washing machine clean—just like any other appliance—is key. However, it’s even more important for appliances that regularly use water, as stagnant water can lead to residue build-up and mould. That’s why modern washing machines include a drum cleaning cycle. It’s simple to use—just run the programme and the machine will automatically clean out any residue. You should also clean the filter regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent clogs.

To make your laundry cycles more energy-efficient, run full loads (without overloading). Don’t forget to use the right amount of detergent, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific appliance.

Dishwasher

The same maintenance tips for your washing machine also apply to your dishwasher. For optimal performance and efficiency, run full loads to save both water and energy. Use the appropriate products, such as recommended detergents and rinse aids, to protect your dishwasher and get the best results. Lastly, remove excess food scraps from your dishes before loading them and regularly check the salt levels to help prevent corrosion and extend the life of your dishes and glassware.

Microwave

Another household appliance that sees frequent use is the microwave. To keep it at its best, follow these three simple steps: clean the interior regularly to prevent residue buildup and unpleasant odours. You should also use microwave-safe containers to avoid damage or safety risks and always make sure the door is fully closed to prevent heat leaks and potential accidents.

Air conditioner

Finally, let’s review a few easy steps to keep your AC running smoothly—especially now that temperatures are rising and summer heat is making its way into our homes.

One of the best ways to maintain our AC efficiency, lower energy usage, and save on your energy bill is to set a moderate temperature—ideally between 23°C and 26°C, which is considered the optimal range to beat the heat!

Regularly cleaning the filters is also essential, as it improves both energy efficiency and air quality.

We also recommend scheduling annual maintenance with a certified technician. They’ll inspect the unit, detect any issues or leaks before they become major problems, and clean components that are difficult to reach on your own.

Save more with efficient use

Having followed these care tips, we’re left to remember that an efficient use and regular—even minimal—maintenance can have a significant impact on your appliances’ lifespan. What's more, small actions can make a big difference for the environment and your wallet:

• Use appliances wisely: run appliances during off-peak hours and only when needed. Avoid running half-full dishwashers to help lower your energy bills and reduce the excessive consumption of natural resources.

• Upgrade to energy-efficient models: consider replacing old appliances with modern, energy-efficient ones. Look for the energy label to make the best choice.

• Protect against power surges: use surge protectors to safeguard your appliances and electrical devices from unexpected voltage spikes.

By adopting just a few of these tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your appliances, enhance their performance, and lower your energy consumption. Sounds easy, right?