Here are some tips for extending the life of your home appliances:

• Keep your appliances clean. Dirt is one of the major reasons why appliances break down. Clean out the lint filter every time you use your clothes dryer. Clean the heating elements on your electric range, or the pilot holes of your gas range. Dust the condenser coil of your refrigerator. Defrost your freezer frequently if it doesn't have a self-defrosting feature. Wash any spatter off the inside of your microwave oven. Occasionally clean the water jets on your dishwasher. Change or clean the filters on your furnace and air conditioner frequently.
• Don't overwork your appliances. A washing machine that's always loaded to capacity will wear out sooner than if you use it for smaller loads. A refrigerator or freezer that's completely filled will have to work harder to maintain the temperature, as well. Change the dust collection bag in your vacuum cleaner before it's full.
• Check all rubber components, as they wear out faster than metal components. A cracked fill hose on a washer could leak onto the floor around the machine and damage it; worn rubber door gaskets on a refrigerator may cause cool air to leak out, and the motor will run longer than normal to maintain the temperature inside.
• Avoid using extension cords. They can reduce efficiency and make your appliances work harder than they need to.
• Use your appliances with care. Check pockets before putting clothes into the washer, as any hard objects can damage the machine. Never put coffee grounds down the garbage disposal. (Some plumbers advise against ever using a garbage disposal.)
• Keep the soleplate of your iron immaculate. If it has any buildup on it, you risk permanently transferring it to your clothes.