When it sums to property maintenance, major appliances should be involved as part of your property management plan. Quality appliances in your Wake Forest rental properties are intriguing to renters while presenting significant future expenses. When appliances are not properly maintained, they may fail faster and require replacement more frequently.
There are easy steps landlords and tenants can take to enhance the life of the appliances in your rental household. By taking a few precautions, you can make sure that each appliance lives up to its full potential. Believe it or not, flipping through the appliance’s manual is the first step to keeping an appliance running. A good landlord will provide a copy of all appliance manuals and encourage their tenants to read them.
For individual appliances, basic maintenance can go far towards increasing their longevity. For example, refrigerators need their gaskets and coils cleaned on a regular basis. The gaskets are the plastic strip that forms the seal around the refrigerator door. To prevent gapping, clean the gaskets a few times a year. Cleaning the coils is also an easy process; simply remove the cover and vacuum or use a soft bristle brush. If your refrigerator comes with filters, it is a good idea to create a schedule to change the filters for your renters to ensure it is being completed correctly on a regular basis.
Dishwashers also need attention for time to time and it’s very easy to clean the gasket with soap and water. Make sure to check the filter regularly and remove any debris. You will also want to make sure that the dishwasher is level with the floor because an unbalanced dishwasher can create vibrations that can hurt the machine as well as damage your dishes. In addition to mechanical aspects, running a hot water cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner every few months will also increment your dishwasher’s lifespan.
When it comes to washers and dryers, proper use will help to keep them in good shape. Overloading the machines is the number one culprit when it comes to poor performance and breakdowns. Loads that are too large for the size of the machine can put a strain on the motor, belts, and transmission, leading to rapid wear and tear. Encourage your tenants to abide by the manufacturer’s recommendations about load size. Furthermore, dryer vents should be examined and cleaned regularly to avoid any buildup. When lint and debris get blocked in the external vent, it can lead to motor or thermostat failure – not to mention creating a serious fire hazard. We recommend double checking the vents each time you replace the filters.
Though these tasks are easy enough, they do take time and effort. Encouraging renters to lend a hand is a critical first step but making sure that they are done can be the real challenge. Why not save yourself both time and overpriced repairs by turning to the experts at Real Property Management Raleigh? We conduct regular property evaluations and maintenance services that include large appliance care, saving you money by enhancing the life span of all major appliances in the home. Please contact us or call us at 919-481-0008 today for more information.
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