Appliances From A-Z

Your manual is a treasure trove of helpful info. In the intro, along with installation tips, you’ll also learn about handy functions. The troubleshooting guide walks you through often simple solutions to common issues that may arise. If the problem is a part, your manual will direct you to what you need and how to find it.    

When a refrigerator is overstuffed, it makes sense that it would have to work harder to stay cool. But surprisingly, a fridge that’s on the emptier side also ends up working overtime, burning more energy and wearing out more quickly. For ideal cooling efficiency, keep your refrigerator and freezer full (but not packed to the gills).¹

Registering your appliance is a shortcut to getting any necessary service and solutions to issues you may encounter. You’ll be looped in on safety and other important updates, and can quickly access your user guide for tips and troubleshooting. Should problems come up that fall under your warranty, the manufacturer will be able to easily find and reference the warranty to take care of repairs and/or replacement parts.

Take good care of your washer, and it’ll be able to handle all the loads you need done. Every few months, wipe down the washer’s drum to remove any dirt and mildew and inspect hoses for cracks. Day to day, keep loads to a reasonable amount and evenly distribute items around the agitator. A drum that is too full or imbalanced won’t spin properly. Beware of adding too much soap, as that can slow drainage and/or cause leaks. Between washes, leave the door open to circulate air, so your washer can fully dry (and not risk mildew).²

Often, older appliances are well-built and more efficient than newer models. It can also be pricey to replace a machine. An American Home Shield warranty can help protect your covered appliance when it breaks down, and will send a qualified, independent Pro to help get your machine up and running.

While American Home Shield warranties don’t cover curling irons, they can help protect your home’s major appliances, like your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer, as well as home systems. Choose a plan with the coverage for you, then relax knowing AHS has your back.

A convection oven will cook your bird more quickly and evenly than other ovens. But monitor your turkey carefully so it doesn’t dry out. Set the temperature 25 degrees lower than the recipe calls for and start checking the turkey’s internal temperature 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time to see if it’s done. (The ideal for poultry is 165 degrees.)³