Appliances

Several appliances are provided in your property and you are responsible for proper use and upkeep. This includes, but is not limited to, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers, cookers, and microwave ovens.

Faults #

Please contact us to report any faults with an appliance. Where possible, include the manufacturer, model, and serial number with photographs.

Note:

• Where an appliance is under guarantee or warranty, we must use the manufacture’s own recommended service engineer.
• Some appliances must be repaired by specialist agents.

Where the fault has been caused by occupants, e.g. overloading or misusing a washing machine, the cost of the repair is your responsibility.

Please contact us if repair contractors do not arrive when expected.

Manuals #

Manuals can usually be found on the web by searching for the manufacturer, model, and serial number.

Cookers and extractors #

Many ovens have an automatic timer and the oven will not work when it is activated. Please de-activate any timer before reporting a problem.

Clean metal extractor filters or replace filters at least every six months. These can be purchased online with the make, model, and serial number.

Dishwashers #

Use dishwasher salt to ensure dishes are cleaned properly. To top up the salt, open the circular screw knob inside the machine and add salt as directed.

Add rinse aid to the special compartment on the door of the machine to the level indicated.

Clean the filters on a regular basis to avoid clogging.

Refrigerators and freezers #

Defrost and clean fridges and freezers regularly to ensure they are working correctly.

1. Remove all food items.
2. Switch off the appliance.
3. Put a bowl of hot water at the bottom of the freezer to help defrosting.
4. Put towels and pans around the freezer to collect water.
5. Allow the appliance to thaw. Do not scrape and chip ice: it can cause irreparable damage.

Replace broken or damaged drawers using services such as espares.co.uk.

Washing machines #

Most washing machines have a filter that traps foreign objects - it is the first thing to check for problems. Clean this filter at least once a month.

Do NOT overload your washing machine. It should never be more than half full.

All machines have a soap dispenser often with several compartments:

• the right-hand compartment is for the main wash
• the left-hand compartment is for a heavy wash cycle, and
• the middle compartment is for fabric conditioner.

Clean the soap dispenser frequently to avoid build-up of soap deposits, which can clog the machine and damage clothes.

A tablet of Calgon each wash can improve the quality of your washing and protect the machine.

Only use washing machine powders, liquids, sachets, or tablets. Do not use a general detergent, which creates excessive soap bubbles and can damage the machine.

Tumble dryers #

Ensure you:

1. Clean the filter before use. It’s normally located toward the bottom of the door. Remove the fluff and replace.
2. Empty any water in the water container (if applicable).

Do NOT overload your tumble dryer. It should never be more than half full.

Kettles #

Lime scale can build up on kettles. It is harmless and can be removed using kettle descaling products available from most supermarkets.

Irons #

Always switch off irons when not in use. Never leave them downside on any surface including ironing boards.