How to Prep Your Appliances for Winter: A Complete Checklist

Canadian winters really put your appliances to the test. Freezing temperatures, extra holiday loads, and machines tucked away in basements or garages make them work overtime. That extra stress can slow them down, raise your energy bills, and sometimes lead to breakdowns. Taking a little time to get your appliances ready before the first freeze can save money, prevent headaches, and help them last longer.

To keep everything running smoothly all season, here’s a winter-prep checklist that makes it simple to care for your appliances and keep them in top shape.

Laundry Life: Washers and Dryers

Winter is rough on laundry. Cold air stiffens rubber hoses, and holiday laundry piles up faster than ever. These appliance our used everyday, important to give them some attention:

• Check those hoses for bulges, cracks, or worn spots. A hose over five years old might look fine, but it could surprise you when you least expect it.
• Spin it out after every load. Running a quick spin or drain cycle keeps water from freezing in pumps or valves and protects your machines.
• Clear the vents. Lint may seem harmless, but it slows drying, blocks airflow, and can even start a fire. A clean lint trap and vent helps your dryer breathe easier.
• Tip: If your laundry room is cold, leave the dryer door slightly open after a load. Moisture can escape and your machine stays happy.

Fridges and Freezers

Basements, garages, and drafty corners can be tough on fridges and freezers. A little attention goes a long way:

• Clean the coils. Dust and debris make your fridge work harder. A quick vacuum and wipe keeps it running smoothly.
• Check door gaskets. Cold can stiffen seals and let air leak out. Replace or adjust them so doors close properly.
• Watch the location. Appliances in really cold spots can struggle. Moving them or adding insulation helps maintain steady cooling.
• Tip: Leave a few inches of space behind your fridge so air can circulate and prevent overheating.

Dishwasher Prep

Dishwashers aren’t immune to winter challenges. Cold air and brittle hoses can cause trouble if you’re not careful:

• Protect water hoses from drafts to prevent freezing or bursts.
• Run a cleaning cycle to remove detergent residue, grease, and mineral buildup that can block spray jets.
• Check spray arms and seals for cracks or blockages and replace anything damaged.
• Tip: Occasionally leave the door slightly open after a cycle. Moisture can escape and mold won’t have a chance to form.

Ovens and Ranges

Winter cooking puts extra strain on ovens and ranges, but a few small steps can make a big difference:

• Check oven temperature with a thermometer. If it’s off, it could mean the thermostat or heating element needs attention.
• Clean burners. Grease and grime can make igniters misbehave. A quick clean keeps cooking times steady and energy use efficient.
• Check door seals for gaps. Heat escaping makes cooking longer and wastes energy.
• Tip: Keep the oven interior clean. Even heat spreads better and food cooks without burning or smoking.

General Winter Appliance Tips

A few everyday habits help all your appliances survive the winter and help avoid repairs :

• Avoid overloading machines. Heavy use strains motors, pumps, and heating elements and can lead to breakdowns.
• Keep appliances level. Uneven floors, especially in basements, can cause vibration and wear over time.
• Catch small problems early. Strange noises, leaks, or changes in performance can turn into bigger issues in freezing temperatures. Fixing them early saves time, money, and stress.

Stay Winter-Ready

Getting your appliances ready for winter doesn’t have to be a chore. A little time spent on checks, cleaning, and simple preventative steps keeps your machines running smoothly. You’ll avoid surprises, save energy, and help your appliances last longer.

Let us at ASAP Appliance Repair help. From inspections and maintenance to repairs of all major appliances, our technicians have you covered. With our expertise, your appliances will keep running safely and reliably, even through the coldest months.