Home appliances are a convenience that many of us couldn’t imagine living without. However, they are still artificial and will break down at some point.
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging appliance life and reducing the frequency of repairs. This routine care of appliance components like Samsung Parts can keep appliances running smoothly, from cleaning dryer vents to lubricating moving parts.
Heating Element
Heating elements convert electrical energy into heat through resistance (or joule heating). They comprise metallic resistance alloys like nickel-chromium (nichrome) or iron-chromium-aluminum.
A heating element is a coil, ribbon, or wire strip that is very hot when it receives electric current. The coil or ribbon of resistance wires creates heat through the interaction of its electric current with a metal such as nickel, chromium, or iron, which has high conductivity and melting point characteristics.
A heating element can also be a straight rod, as in toaster ovens and electric stoves, or be bent into a shape, such as those used in tumble driers and automatic coffee makers.
In either case, it is essential to terminate the element lead wires properly. This includes ensuring the maximum amount of the element lead wire is in close, hard physical contact with the actual termination.
Water Pump
A pump malfunction can cause everything within a facility to shut down. Because of this, it is vital to have a maintenance schedule that is implemented and followed regularly.
When an issue is spotted early, it can be easily remedied and prevent costly repairs. A water pump is no exception.
Leaks in the casing volute, bearings, mechanical seals, and impeller are common problems leading to a broken water pump. It is best to have a stock of these typical wearing parts on hand to avoid downtime and delays due to long lead times.
Inspect all of the components in a pump to look for visible signs of wear and tear, and keep a log of these inspections.
Motor
Motors are the heart of many appliances and can be one of the most expensive parts to replace if they fail. Preventative maintenance includes:
- Inspecting electrical connections to ensure they are tight and free from corrosion.
- Visually check the motor for signs of excessive heat.
- Lubricating it with the manufacturer’s recommended grease.
- Cleaning the motor for excessive dust and dirt can degrade insulation and inhibit proper cooling.
Regular appliance maintenance may seem like a hassle, but it pays off in the long run. Well-maintained appliances function at optimal capacity and reduce energy consumption, lowering homeowners’ utility bills. Moreover, properly maintained appliances can add value to a home and increase its resale value. Investing in a comprehensive appliance maintenance program is worth the upfront cost.
Thermostat
Thermostats are mechanical devices that react to temperature changes and control the flow of electricity or fuel to a heating or cooling system. A thermostat is an important component in a home or commercial building’s comfort system, and it is crucial to keep it well-maintained.
For example, it is important to avoid placing a thermostat in direct sunlight or near hot-water pipes because this can disrupt its ability to measure temperature accurately. Also, it is a good idea to periodically compare a thermostat’s temperature readings with the actual room temperature to ensure they match.
Finally, replacing the batteries in a thermostat regularly is helpful since weak batteries can affect accuracy and performance. This prevents erratic temperature regulation and energy waste. Additionally, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat that optimizes energy usage based on the occupants’ daily schedules.
Electronic Control Board
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are core components in most appliances that connect and sync all device elements mechanically, like an electric oven. If a circuit board is faulty, homeowners often report a burning smell and error codes on the display.
Over time, normal wear and tear, as well as voltage spikes or static electricity, change the composition of a circuit board’s switches, which then causes them to fail prematurely. Regular maintenance on a PCB can extend its life.
Repairing appliance circuit boards is a growing segment of appliance service business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when replacement parts are scarce. Wadia says it benefits customers like DeLuca and the environment by reducing waste sent to landfills.
The specialized services also help address planned obsolescence, where manufacturers upgrade appliance features and corresponding repair parts are discontinued.
