4 Tips for Getting Your Kitchen Appliances Ready for the 2024 Holiday Season

1. Microwave Magic: Clean and Maintain

Your microwave has become a litmus test of kitchen cleanliness for many guests. Like it or not, visitors typically see inside your microwave at some point during their stay. If they catch a glimpse of a messy microwave cavity, your reputation for cleanliness will often take a major hit.

It’s hard to keep the inside of a microwave clean. Foods splatter everywhere during microwave cooking and reheating. Clean the microwave often – daily if need be – during the holidays to maintain your dignity among family and friends. Here are some helpful tips for microwave cleaning:

• Dealing with food splatters: Food splatters are inevitable. But don't worry, we've got a hack for you. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of vinegar. Heat this mixture until it steams up. This steam will loosen the stains, making them a breeze to wipe away with a damp cloth. To prevent food splatters, cover food with a microwave splatter cover.
• Damage control: Keep an eye out for any signs of damage like cracks, broken buttons, or faulty seals. If you spot any, it's time to get them fixed to avoid further damage or potential safety hazards.
• Spick and span: A clean microwave is a happy microwave. Use a mild dish soap and water solution to clean the inside. Pay special attention to the turntable and walls. For the outside, a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner should do the trick.

Sometimes placing aluminum foil close to the sides, or using your microwave rack incorrectly, can create an electric spark in your microwave, burning the inside of the unit. There is an easy way you can repair these types of burns using touch-up paint. This video will walk you through that process and show you some ways that you can avoid burning your microwave in the future.

Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure your microwave stays in top shape during the holiday season. If you run into any complex issues or need professional help, don't hesitate to reach out to our experts at Sears Home Services.

2. Getting Your Fridge Festive Ready

Your refrigerator plays a crucial role in keeping your holiday feast fresh. Follow these steps to get your fridge ready for the holiday hustle:

• Start by decluttering your fridge. Toss out any expired or spoiled food. Wipe down the shelves and drawers to remove any spills or stains. Organize your items for easy access.
• Use a thermometer to check the temperature inside your fridge. Adjust the settings if necessary. The sweet spot is usually between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The condenser coils are crucial for cooling your fridge. Over time, dust and debris can build up, affecting its efficiency. Use a vacuum or a soft brush to clean the coils and ensure proper airflow.

These simple steps will ensure your fridge is ready to tackle the holiday rush. If you run into any issues or need professional help, Sears Home Services is here to help.

3. Range Readiness for Holiday Cooking

The holiday season is all about cooking up delicious meals. To make sure your range is up to the task, follow these steps:

Firstly, clean your stovetop and oven. Over time, spills and splatters can accumulate, leading to potential fire hazards. Use a gentle cleanser and a non-abrasive sponge to clean up.

Next, check and calibrate the temperature of your range. An oven that doesn't heat to the correct temperature can lead to unevenly cooked meals. If you notice any discrepancies, it might be time to call in a pro.

Lastly, test all the burners and heating elements on your range. If you notice any issues, it's best to have a professional inspect your range before the holiday cooking begins.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your range is ready for the holiday season. And remember, if you need any help, Sears Home Services is just a call away.

4. Dishwasher Prep for the Holiday Hustle

With the holiday season approaching, your dishwasher is about to get a serious workout. Here's how to get it ready:

• Filter and spray arm clean-up. Over time, debris can build up in the dishwasher's filter and spray arms. Clean them using warm soapy water to ensure proper water flow.
• Leak and clog check. A leaking dishwasher can be a party pooper. Check for any signs of leaks or clogs. Pay special attention to the door seal and the drain hose.
• Detergent dos and don'ts. Using the right detergent can make a world of difference. Check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you're using the right type and amount of detergent. Get additional tips for picking and using the right dishwasher detergent in our article: Finding the Best Dishwasher Detergent: What You Need to Know.

These simple steps will ensure your dishwasher is ready to handle the holiday rush. If you encounter any issues or need professional help, Sears Home Services is always ready to assist.

For best results when getting your kitchen appliances ready for the holidays, schedule a Kitchen Appliance Check-up and we’ll send a Sears Home Services Technician to your home to perform a 33-point inspection on your refrigerator, dishwasher and oven. We'll check your appliances for proper functioning, wear and tear, water and gas leaks and clean internal components.

Our technicians know all the top appliance brands. We can maintain your appliances no matter where you bought them. If a technician uncovers problems during appliance maintenance, you can trust our appliance experts for repairs on top appliance brands like Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, Samsung, Maytag, Bosch, LG and Kenmore.

Regular kitchen appliance maintenance will help prevent costly breakdowns, reduce energy costs and extend the life of your appliances. Schedule professional cleaning and maintenance by Sears every fall to keep your appliances in top shape for the holidays.