We’ve all had those crazy, super hectic situations where you’re running around, trying to do a million tasks all at once. Every time you finish one thing, the next item on your list is staring you right in the face.

No matter how many things you cross off, the list keeps coming. But then, the unexpected happens. Just after putting in a load of dishes, your dishwasher starts foaming at the seams. Soon, there’s a puddle of water and suds in and around your kitchen. It’s just another thing that needs to be added to the list.

You may have heard your parents, grandparents or yourself say “they don’t make ‘em like they used to.” Furniture always seems to get brought up in this conversation and so do any tech items. While a Nokia phone could withstand an atomic bomb, your new iPhone is being replaced every few years. But home appliances shouldn’t fall in that category. You’d rather not be shelling out money every year for a new dishwasher.

We need them to be reliable as we’re using them every day, often multiple times a day. They are supposed to stand the test of time.

Before calling a professional, what can you do to make sure you’re getting the most out of your home appliances? Check the list below to get started.

Regular Cleaning
Just like you need a shower every day, your appliances need regular cleaning as well. Amazingly enough, cleaning your everyday appliances is much easier than it may seem.

Take your fridge for example. While you should be cleaning the shelves and vegetable trays on a regular basis already, one of the best ways to ensure long life is by vacuuming the coils. Refrigerators and freezers don’t make stuff cold, they remove heat from inside the fridge. Take a small vacuum brush and do a one-two on the coils to remove all dust and debris. Bam, you’re finished!

Going to that tricky dishwasher, make sure you’re cleaning out the filter. It’s what catches large pieces of food and other debris and too much can block the drain hose. If the drain hose is blocked, expect to see more water outside the dishwasher than inside it.

With your oven, you can use the self-clean feature and simply brush away all the crumbs when you’re finished. On the top side, just clean your stove after you use it. Make sure nothing is blocking the gas burners, if you have them.

Last but not least, your water heater. Make sure you check your pressure relief valve to remove any excess pressure. If not, your water heater may start making bizarre sounds every now and then and you won’t be getting the desired pressure you need.

Take care of these small things first so you can get out and enjoy different fun activities.

Channel Your Inner DIY
If you see a problem, don’t immediately call a repairman. While you may know as much about appliance repair as you know about rocket science, there are still plenty of things you can do first.

Head online to look at YouTube videos and go onto some DIY forums. Chances are, there are plenty of other people who have had the same problem you have at one time or another so check online before reaching for the phone.

Choosing a Repair Service
There will be problems, however, that you just won’t be able to repair on your own and it will be time to call in an expert. Appliance repair companies are usually much cheaper than having to buy new.

If there are issues where you feel your appliance is affecting your safety, like your dryer giving off a burning smell, then it’s time to pick up the phone. Or if it's better half, the washing machine, is violently shaking and jumping out of place.

When it comes to your fridge, if it’s becoming hot to the touch or food is spoiling prematurely, that could be a sign of a bigger issue that will need an expert’s opinion.

When it comes to choosing a service, the best way is to look at online opinions and prices. Those with past experiences can shine a light on how responsive the company is, how willing they are to work with you and what else they can offer. In this business, online reviews and word of mouth are great ways to find your repairman.