Using your appliances
We've created this guide to help you get the best from the appliances fitted in your property in Newcastle.
This is a general overview but if you do need more information please call the office so we can assist, or speak with your Property Supervisor.
Washing machines/Washer dryer
Don’t overload the machine. A good indication of the correct load is when the items fill 2/3 of the drum. This will allow the items to wash correctly and if the machine is a washer dryer, dry correctly. Overloading will cost more in energy use, and can damage the machine. Before using the machine, check if all pockets are empty and place small items such as socks, in a laundry bag.
Top tips:
Don't use colour catchers in your machine, as these can jam and burn out drainage pumps
Don't put shoes in your machine
Don't forcibly open the door when the cycle is finished - wait for the door to unlock
Clean out the detergent drawer when needed and after use, leave the door slightly open to allow the machine to vent
Clean the filter on a regular basis
Tumble dryers
Don’t overload your machine - fill to 1/3 of the drum. Always make sure that the filters are cleared of lint after use, and on condenser dryers, make sure the water drawer is emptied after use.
Top tips:
Don't put trainers or heavy objects in the dryer as you will damage the machine
Don’t stop the dryer mid-cycle as you will trip the thermostats
If you need to remove the items before the cycle has ended, turn the dial to the cool down position to allow the machine to cool
Ovens / cookers
Keep all surfaces clean, otherwise your oven or cooker can become a fire risk when in use.
Top tips:
In the event of a spillage, please turn off the appliance and allow it to cool before cleaning
NEVER use a hob as an improvised heater
Remove the door to make cleaning much easier!
Dishwashers
When using a dishwasher, please remember that it is NOT a waste disposal unit - make sure to scrape your dishes into a bin. Always make sure all items are loaded correctly in the baskets and don’t force the door to shut.
Top tips:
Add dishwasher salt to the bottom of the chamber inside to enhance the cleaning process
Always use dishwasher tablets and never washing up liquid in your dishwasher, as this can cause damage to the machine due to excessive foaming
Refrigeration
Always make sure the doors on fridges and freezers are shut correctly, when placing items in the fridge compartment make sure a gap is left at the back (25 mm) to allow air circulation.
Top tips:
To avoid frosting, adjust the temperature dial according to how full the fridge compartment is - the less food in the fridge, the lower the setting you will need. If your fridge is full, you will need to put the dial at a higher setting to keep things cool
If you do get a problem with the fridge/freezer over icing, please remove contents and allow the unit to defrost
To defrost your machine, remove all contents and unplug it, leaving the doors open for a minimum of 24 hrs (place a couple of towels on the floor to catch the water as the ice melts)
Don't scrape ice off as you may damage the appliance
Heating/Air-conditioning
Check your property file to see guidance on thermostats and how to work your central heating and/or air-conditioning.
If you are going away for an extended period of time, like for Christmas, you need to make sure that the heating is still set to come on, even if it’s just briefly. This is because frozen pipes can damage your heating system, and it will also help to prevent mould forming in the property.
If you have any questions or need any advice regarding appliances in your home, please contact your Property Supervisor or give us an email at enquiries@seekersproperty.co.uk
