It’s easy to forget about cleaning your dryer vent since you don’t typically interact with it day-to-day. However, regular dryer vent maintenance is critical for home safety and appliance health.

Fire Safety Best Practices

Your dryer vent is the tube or duct that connects the back of your dryer to the exterior of your home. As your dryer works, it blows out warm, moist air through this vent.

While your lint trap catches some of the lint and fibers from your drying laundry, some are also blown through your dryer vent. Over time, fibers accumulate and can pose a dangerous fire hazard if left in place.

Cleaning your dryer vent at least once a year is the best way to avoid this issue. If you have a large family or do a lot of laundry, you may need to clean it more often.

Optimized Dryer Function

The more clogged your dryer vent becomes, the harder your dryer has to work to move air through it. An increased workload means increased strain on your dryer and all its components. In some cases, your dryer may also simply not work as well.

Laundry that doesn’t dry properly is actually one of the top signs of dryer vent issues. Ideally, moisture removed from your clothes and linens during the drying cycle vents to the outside via a clear path through the duct.

If that path is obstructed, the moisture from your laundry may not be able to go anywhere. You can run your dryer for the most extended cycle possible, and it won’t get completely dry.

Regular dryer vent cleaning keeps your whole dryer system in optimal condition. Since your dryer doesn’t have to work harder, individual parts are less likely to wear out, extending the overall lifespan of this essential home appliance. Your dryer will also be able to dry your clothes without extra cycles. A clear vent is the key to a well-functioning dryer.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Better dryer performance isn’t the only benefit of dryer vent cleaning. This key maintenance step also increases your dryer’s energy efficiency. 

A clogged vent causes your dryer to work harder, which means it uses more energy to dry each load. Increased energy usage means increased energy costs, which can make a big dent in your household budget. 

A clear vent, on the other hand, helps your dryer work optimally and use as little power as possible. Your energy bill stays low, and your dryer stays in good condition.

Household Health

If dryer vent obstructions prevent moist air from leaving your dryer, that moisture may also start impacting the overall environment of your dryer and laundry area. Anytime excess moisture is present, mold and mildew growth is more likely.

Mold and mildew spores can cause an unpleasant, musty smell and can lead to or exacerbate numerous health issues, such as:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Other respiratory infections
• Shortness of breath
• Allergies 
• Fatigue
• Headaches

The longer your dryer vent is clogged, the more mold and mildew will grow. Regular vent cleaning is a simple, straightforward way to avoid this unpleasant issue.

DIY or Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning?

While there are ways to clean your dryer vent on your own, professional cleaning is the best choice to achieve complete cleanliness and optimal safety and performance. You can pair vent cleaning with regular dryer service checks to ensure both elements work correctly.

Your local dryer repair or appliance service company will be able to get your vents clean and clear with minimal fuss. With professional tools and expert knowledge, they’ll ensure your dryer vent is in good condition until the next cleaning.

When you need dryer vent cleaning in Morris County or the surrounding region, call Morris County Appliance Repair. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience, and we’re here to ensure your dryer and vent are in the best shape possible. We are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind, and we do all work in-house. Our crew offers exceptional customer service and outstanding appliance care to keep your household running smoothly. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

It is essential to keep children safe around household appliances. Children are curious by nature, so it’s up to parents and caregivers to limit dangers within the home. Here are some key tips to help your kids stay safe around household appliances.

Limit Access to Appliances

One of the most straightforward appliance safety steps is to limit access. If you can, locate appliances behind doors that lock and keep them secured when not in use.

If you can’t limit access with a door, try to place appliances out of reach where possible. If kids can’t access an appliance, it poses much less danger.

Secure Appliances

Larger moveable appliances can tip over if children try to climb or pull on them. Appliances that pose a tip-over risk include:

• Refrigerators
• Washers
• Dryers
• Stoves

Anchoring appliances with wall brackets or straps can reduce this risk. Call your local appliance repair company if you need help anchoring an appliance.

Use Childproofing Tools

In many cases, you can also childproof appliances with purpose-made tools to secure doors and controls. These include:

• Knob covers for stovetop controls
• Slide locks or button straps for refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers
• Heatproof manual door locks for ovens

Some newer appliances also have built-in childproofing features. If you’re in the market for a new machine, you can look for one with integrated safeguards. 

Educate Children in the Household

Teaching children about appliance safety is one of the best ways to avoid danger. It’s never too early to begin modeling safety practices or teaching kids not to touch appliance controls, burners, or doors. 

If children in the household can use appliances, ensure they know how to do so safely. It’s also helpful to teach them what to do in an emergency so that they stay as safe as possible if something goes wrong.

Stay On Top of Appliance Maintenance

Keeping appliances in good condition is essential for safety. A broken appliance is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous.

For example, electrical issues, overheating components, and malfunctioning temperature gauges can pose significant fire hazards. The best way to ensure the safety of your home and family is to call an appliance repair professional when you notice an issue.

If you need help with appliance safety measures or childproofing in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re here to help keep your appliances working correctly, no matter the problem. With over 50 years of combined experience, we provide service for any brand and model of appliance. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

A noisy dryer isn’t just an annoyance; it can also signal a potential mechanical issue. If left untreated, it could lead to further problems, costly repairs, or the need for a new dryer. Here are some common culprits of dryer noises and what you can do about them.

Look For Simple Fixes

You should always investigate a noisy dryer but don’t panic right away. While mechanical problems do cause many dryer sounds, you can solve others with some detective work and a few external adjustments. 

Are There Objects in the Drum?

If you’ve ever left coins or a key in your pocket while washing and drying clothes, you know it can make a racket. If your dryer makes a banging or rattling noise, first rule out a loose object. If you don’t find anything but still hear the noise the next time you dry clothes, you can delve further or contact your local appliance repair company for help.

Is Your Dryer Level?

Your dryer should be level, and all four feet should have solid contact with the floor. If they don’t, the dryer can rock back and forth as the clothes’ weight shifts during the drying process. With a few adjustments of the feet, your dryer could go from loud to silent in a flash.

Investigate Mechanical Wear and Tear

If you can’t identify a simple cause for dryer noise, the culprit is likely a worn or damaged part you can’t see. If a part is compromised, it can’t do its job or interact correctly with the rest of the machine, resulting in atypical noises. 

Here’s a look at some likely suspects and what kind of noise you might expect if there’s a problem:

Drum Rollers

Drum rollers support the dryer drum and help it turn. If one is worn out or damaged, that support becomes unbalanced. A worn drum roller often causes a squealing or squeaking sound. The best practice for dealing with a damaged roller is to replace all of them. That way, the new set will work effectively in sync.

Drive Belt

The drive belt wraps around the dryer drum and, with the help of the drive motor and idler pulley, helps turn it. Tension and friction can cause fraying and wear, making it harder for the drum to rotate smoothly. A worn drive belt can cause a scraping or rattling noise. If you can see visible wear and tear on the drive belt, it’s time for a new one.

Idler Pulley

The idler pulley keeps tension on the drive belt while the dryer operates. If it wears out, it can cause your dryer to make a squealing sound. You should replace a worn idler pulley as soon as possible. Since the idler pulley and drive belt work closely together, it’s advisable to replace the drive belt when you replace the idler pulley, even if the drive belt still looks ok. Getting two new parts together will help keep your dryer working effectively long-term.

If you have significant DIY experience, you might feel comfortable assessing your dryer and replacing worn parts if needed. If not, you should gather all the information you can about the problem and contact a local appliance repair professional for assistance. Either way, you’ll do yourself a favor by handling unusual appliance noises before they cause additional issues.

If you live in Morris County and need help dealing with troublesome dryer sounds, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We have over 50 years of combined experience to put to work diagnosing and fixing any dryer problem you may have. Our team is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind, and we do all of our work in-house. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us.

One of the most important parts of a kitchen upgrade is choosing appliances. Learn what factors to consider and what the latest appliance trends are so you can make your new kitchen shine.

Appliance Selection Criteria

Most people don’t regularly shop for new kitchen appliances, so it can be challenging to know where to start. Key elements to consider are form, function, and cost.

Pick Your Look:

With so many appliance choices on the market, picking the general look you want is helpful. Do you want a sleek and modern appearance or a retro vibe? Do you want all your appliances to match, or do you want to embrace a more eclectic vision?

You can browse appliances online or in-store. Knowing your general aesthetic in advance will help you narrow down the possibilities.

Find the Right Size:

You should also consider appliance size as an appearance and logistical concern. It’s no good falling in love with a sleek new refrigerator if it won’t fit into the available space. Avoid that heartbreak by knowing your space requirements before you start shopping.

Identify Ideal Features:

Upgrading your appliances is a great way to get the new functions you’ve always wanted. However, not all makes and models have the same features, and some innovations are so new that you may not even be aware they exist. 

Researching the latest appliance features is essential, especially if you haven’t recently purchased new ones. Then, you can decide which bells and whistles are on the “must-have,” “it would be nice,” or “I could take it or leave it” list.

Set Your Price Point:

As with any upgrade project, budget is always a consideration. That’s why you should set an appliance budget before you start shopping. 

You can look around for a general idea of price points, but do your best to stay on budget when making final selections. It’s also worth looking at your timeline and talking to salespeople to learn if seasonal or store-specific sales align with your schedule.

Kitchen Appliance Trends

Today’s appliances are ever-evolving. Some recent trends and upgrades are simple (but very effective) like gas ranges with iron grates that hinge up to allow for easier cleaning and ovens with built-in removable trays that catch drips and then go in the dishwasher.

Multi-function appliances are also becoming more and more common. They save space while providing additional cooking, cleaning, and food storage options. These include:

• Ovens that offer traditional baking, convection baking, steam infusion, air frying, broiling, dough-proofing, and more
• Refrigerators with drawers that transition from fridge to beverage cooler to freezer with the touch of a button
• Induction cooktops with downdraft ventilation located on the cooktop to eliminate the need for a range hood

Smart appliances are also on the rise, like refrigerators that help you record your grocery list and use interior cameras to let you see what you have at home while at the grocery store. There are also washers, dryers, and dishwashers that wait to run until energy costs are lowest. Other appliances utilize voice control, remote access, and more to help your kitchen run smoothly.

If you need help with home or kitchen appliances or appliance repair in Morris County, Rockaway, or the area, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. Our team stays on the cutting edge of appliance innovation so that we can provide the best service possible to all our customers. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or appliance parts, we do it all. We have over 50 years of experience and are licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

We use electricity so often that taking it for granted is easy. However, it’s important to remember that electricity is a powerful and sometimes dangerous force. When it comes to home appliances, electrical safety is a must.

No matter how big or small, appliances can become hazardous if used without proper safety precautions. Here is a breakdown of some of the most important electrical safety measures you can implement in your home. 

Watch Out for Electrical Overloads

Too much electricity being drawn through a wire or cord can cause an overload. When there is too much power and too little room to contain it, the overload can generate heat and pose a serious fire hazard.

Signs of an electrical overload include:

• Tripped circuit breakers
• Warm or hot outlet covers
• Scorch marks around outlet covers
• Buzzing sounds from outlets or switches
• Appliances or electronics that are frequently slow or underpowered
• Getting shocked when you touch outlets or appliances

In some cases, an electrical overload is a one-off event. Maybe you plugged in one too many kitchen appliances and tripped a circuit breaker. In that case, you simply need to unplug one of the appliances, reset the breaker, and avoid repeating the situation.

Electrical overload can also be an ongoing issue. If any of the above signs are present, it’s important to assess the situation, adjust your power usage, and possibly contact a certified electrician to resolve the issue.

Electrical overloads are often caused by:

• Using too many appliances in one space
• Using power strips or multi-socket adapters to draw additional power from outlets
• Permanent or long-term use of extension cords
• Old or faulty wiring
• Outdated electrical capacity

To avoid electrical overloads, it’s important to use your electrical system and appliances correctly. Always follow the use instructions that come with appliances and know the limits of your electrical system.

If it’s not feasible to change your appliance or power usage, consider having an electrician install additional outlets, update your wiring, or install a new electrical panel to support your power usage.

Never Mix Water and Appliances

We’re generally taught from a young age that we shouldn’t mix electricity and water. This is one of the foundations of appliance safety. But what happens when your appliances are in or near water, either intentionally or accidentally?

Some outlets are necessarily located near water or potentially wet areas. This includes bathrooms and laundry areas, as well as exterior outlets that might get wet or are located near a pool or hot tub.

Outlets near water should all feature a GCFI, or ground fault circuit interrupter—a safety device that can shut off the flow of power if it detects an imbalance between the power flowing into and out of a circuit. This helps prevent electrical shocks and protects electrical systems and appliances from overheating, getting damaged, or starting a fire.

Beyond using GCFIs, here are some basic safety tips for dealing with appliances when water is present.

Appliances and water safety:

• Never touch appliances or cords with wet hands or if you’re standing in water
• If an appliance falls into water, turn off the power then unplug it before you attempt to touch it
• If you need to use an appliance near water, see if there’s a battery-operated option rather than a corded one

Even a small amount of water can pose a risk when it comes to appliances. If you have any appliances or outlets that are near water, always keep track of them so that you can prevent accidents and keep your household safe.

Follow Manufacturer Instructions

The instructions that come with appliances can sometimes seem overly long and complicated, but they are there for a reason. The information about how to position, store, and use an appliance increases its longevity and helps keep us safe. 

Manufacturer instructions that you should always follow include:

• Do not yank cords when unplugging appliances
• Avoid compressing, crimping, or altering cords in any way
• Give appliances proper clearance so they are not pressed against a wall or placed underneath a surface

While these may not apply to every appliance, they are good rules of thumb. Remember, these instructions aren’t there to make your life harder—they’re there to keep you safe.

If you live in Morris County or the surrounding area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair if you have any questions or concerns about appliance safety, appliance installation, or appliance repair. We have over 50 years of combined experience working with home appliances, and we’ll be happy to help. We do all our work in-house and we have experience with a range of appliance brands. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Hard water can wreak havoc on your home appliances. From dishwashers to washing machines, the minerals in hard water—primarily calcium and magnesium—can build up over time, reducing efficiency and causing premature wear and tear. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to mitigate this damage and extend the life of your appliances. Here’s how hard water affects your household equipment and tips to avoid costly repairs.

How Does Hard Water Affect Your Appliances?

1. Clogs and Build-Up: Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits, also known as scale, in your appliances. This can cause clogs in pipes, filters, and valves, affecting the flow of water and reducing the efficiency of your appliances. Your dishwasher, washing machine, and even your water heater are particularly vulnerable to this type of damage.
2. Reduced Efficiency: The build-up of limescale can force your appliances to work harder. A washing machine with scale build-up, for instance, has to use more energy to heat water and clean your clothes properly. This not only increases energy bills but also shortens the lifespan of the appliance.
3. Poor Performance: Hard water makes detergents and soaps less effective, leading to poor cleaning results. Dishes may come out of the dishwasher with spots, and clothes may feel rough and look dull after being washed. Over time, this can wear out fabrics and diminish the appearance of your dishes and glassware.

Tips to Prevent Hard Water Damage in Your Appliances

1. Use a Water Softener: The best long-term solution to hard water is installing a water softener. Water softeners remove the minerals that cause scale build-up, helping to protect your appliances from clogs and damage. This can save you money on repairs and energy bills in the long run.
2. Clean Your Appliances Regularly: Regular cleaning can help reduce mineral build-up. For dishwashers, run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner every month. Similarly, for washing machines, using a washing machine cleaner or running an empty hot water cycle with vinegar can help flush out mineral deposits.
3. Descale Your Water Heater: Your water heater is particularly vulnerable to hard water damage. To prevent scale build-up, you should have it descaled regularly by a professional or flush it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This can improve efficiency and prolong the life of the heater.
4. Use Hard Water Detergents: There are detergents and soaps formulated to work better with hard water. These products help prevent scale build-up in your dishwasher and washing machine while improving cleaning results.

Conclusion

Hard water can significantly reduce the lifespan and efficiency of your home appliances, but with the right preventative measures, you can protect your investment. Whether it’s installing a water softener or regularly descaling your appliances, these steps will help keep your household running smoothly.

When your washing machine is having issues, it can be hard to know which path to take: spend time and money on repairs, or shell out the funds for a whole new machine. To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at the major pros and cons of each course and some key tips on keeping your washer going as long as possible.

Choosing Washing Machine Repair

Sadly, there’s no easy answer when it comes to the washing machine repair versus replacement debate. In general terms, however, here are some pros and cons of opting for washing machine repair:

Pros

• Cost: a service call plus a repair fee is probably lower than the price of a new washing machine
• Timing: if your machine needs a straightforward repair, an appliance pro can usually have it up and running quickly
• Environmental impact: fixing your machine keeps it in your home rather than in a landfill

Cons

• Difficult diagnosis: complex problems may take time (and money) to find and resolve
• Cost: significant repairs may rack up a hefty price tag
• Convenience: dealing with a broken machine, arranging service calls, and waiting for repairs can take time

Deciding to repair or replace your washer is a personal decision that depends on your budget, the complexity of the problem, and the timeframe of any repairs. If you’re on the fence, ask your appliance repair professional for a recommendation. Based on their assessment of the situation, they should be able to give you their take on whether repairs are worth it or if shopping for a new appliance will be in your best interest.

Opting for Washing Machine Replacement

Buying a new washing machine is no small thing, either physically or financially. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of replacing your washer:

Pros

• Functionality: barring extraordinary circumstances, it’s a good bet that a new washer will work consistently
• Energy efficiency: your energy costs and the environmental impact of using your washer will typically be reduced
• Lower repair costs: you likely won’t have to spend much on repairs for some time

Cons

• Initial cost: you’ll probably spend a bundle up front to buy a new washer
• Logistics: getting rid of your old washer and installing a new one can cause household upheaval and will leave you without access to a washer for at least a short time
• Environmental impact: your old washer will become waste and it will be up to you to see that it’s disposed of in the most environmentally responsible way

Most American households rely on a washing machine to make their home lives run smoothly. If your washer needs constant repairs or doesn’t do its job well, getting a new machine may be your best option.

Extending the Life of a New Washer

When you get a new washing machine, you can keep it working well by following these tips:

Follow Appliance Instructions

While most of us probably don’t read new appliance manuals for fun, it’s advisable to at least took through it to get an idea of the major dos and don’ts for a new washer. These include:

• Using the right kind and amount of detergent
• Not overloading your washer
• Emptying clothing pockets before washing
• Keeping the washer level

Clean Your Washer Regularly

Soap scum and mildew can accumulate in your washer if left unchecked. This can impact how clean your clothes get and can lead to blockages and damage over time.

Inspect, Assess, and Repair

Don’t take your washing machine for granted. Regularly inspect the hoses, in particular, to check for wear, fraying, and other damage. Replace components as needed and nip problems in the bud before they lead to major issues.

When you need help deciding between washing machine repair or replacement in Morris County or the region, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair. With over 50 years of combined experience, we are ready to help you assess your situation and make the choice that’s right for you. Our customer service is second to none and we look forward to helping you however we can. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Your refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in your home, working around the clock to keep your food fresh. Like any hardworking machine, it needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. With just a few simple steps, you can prolong your fridge’s life and avoid costly repairs.

Clean the Coils Regularly

The coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator play a crucial role in cooling. Over time, they can get clogged with dust and debris, which forces your fridge to work harder and can lead to breakdowns. To prevent this, unplug your fridge and use a vacuum or coil brush to clean the coils every six months. This simple task can improve efficiency and extend the life of your appliance.

Replace Filters on Time

If your fridge has a water or air filter, make sure you replace it as recommended by the manufacturer—usually every six months. A clogged water filter can reduce the flow and quality of your water, while a dirty air filter can lead to unpleasant odors and decreased performance. Mark your calendar to ensure these filters are changed on schedule.

Check the Door Seals

Worn or damaged door seals can let cold air escape, making your refrigerator work harder to maintain the right temperature. To check the seals, close the door on a dollar bill and see if you can pull it out easily. If you can, it’s time to replace the seals. This small fix can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Keep It Cool

Your refrigerator’s environment can impact its performance. Ensure it’s positioned away from heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight, and keep the temperature inside between 37°F and 40°F. Overloading your fridge can also cause it to run less efficiently, so give your food some breathing room.

When to Call a Professional

While these maintenance tasks can help keep your refrigerator in good shape, some issues require a professional touch. If you notice unusual noises, inconsistent temperatures, or if your fridge isn’t running as efficiently as it should, it’s time to call in an expert. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we’ve been keeping refrigerators running smoothly since 1962. Our experienced technicians are ready to help with all your appliance repair needs.

If your dishwasher isn’t working properly, don’t despair. There are several causes of dishwasher trouble, and many have an easy fix. Here’s a rundown of some common dishwasher issues, plus when to troubleshoot on your own and when to call an expert to get your dishwasher back on track.

Dishes Not Getting Clean

It’s never fun to start unloading your dishwasher only to find that your dishes still have fingerprints or bits of food on them. Some possible causes of incomplete or inefficient cleaning include:

• Interior grime buildup
• Dirty filter
• Clogged spray arm
• Impeller breakage
• Inlet valve malfunction
• Circulation pump issues

Some of these issues have simple fixes that you can do yourself. Others are best left to the professionals. Read on to learn which path to follow.

DIY Dishwasher Solutions

If your dishes aren’t getting clean, the first step is to ensure that your dishwasher itself is clean. This includes checking the dishwasher interior, the filter, and the spray arm.

Cleaning the Interior

First, look to see if there’s a buildup of grease or minerals inside your dishwasher. If there is, pour three cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and run it through a full cycle. This should help dissolve and wash away most buildup so that existing grime isn’t deposited on your dishes during the cleaning process.

Checking the Filter

A dirty filter can also be addressed with a thorough cleaning. Your dishwasher filter catches large bits of food and other debris. It needs to be cleaned periodically so that it doesn’t become clogged with particles and grease. Check your owner’s manual to find out how to safely remove the filter, then use warm, soapy water to clean it out before you replace it. This will ensure that no accumulated gunk makes its way back into the dishwasher and onto your clean dishes.

Removing the Spray Arm

Your dishwasher’s spray arm is an essential component that shoots water over your dishes to help clean them. If the holes on the spray arm are clogged, the water pressure is decreased and your dishes won’t get properly clean. You can solve this issue by removing the spray arm and using a scrub brush to clean out any debris or mineral deposits clogging the spray arm holes. You can also use a toothpick or an old toothbrush to tackle any stubborn areas that need some more TLC.

When to Call a Professional for Dishwasher Repair

Some dishwasher performance issues are best left to the experts. These include problems with the impeller, inlet valve, or circulation pump. If your dishes aren’t getting clean and you notice strange noises when you run your machine, one of these three may be the culprit.

Impeller Issues

Water is pushed through your dishwasher’s spray arm and drained from the machine via a pump impeller. A broken or obstructed impeller may cause a humming, buzzing, or grinding noise. Fixing an impeller issue should be left to the pros, so call your local appliance repair team if you notice a problem.

Inlet Valve Function

Your dishwasher’s inlet valve lets water into the dishwasher at key points in the wash cycle. If the valve materials have deteriorated, it will cause a high squealing or buzzing noise. It can also sometimes sound like knocking, depending on the severity of the problem. 

If you notice a high-pitched buzzing, squealing, or knocking about two minutes after starting your dishwasher, the inlet valve is a likely cause. Call an appliance professional to take care of it so your dishwasher can do its job.

Circulation Pump Noises

The circulation pump is a key dishwasher part that sprays water throughout the machine to clean your dishes. If there’s a problem with the pump or its bearings, you may hear a high-pitched buzz—and your dishes will come out dirty. Typically, a faulty circulation pump needs to be replaced, so contacting an expert for dishwasher repair is your best bet.

If you need dishwasher repair help in Morris County, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re here to put our 50+ years of experience to work for you so that your dishwasher gets back on track. We do all our work in-house and we offer convenient weekday and weekend appointments. We’re fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Appliances are so common in our day-to-day lives that we don’t always consider safety concerns when using them. Safety should always be considered, though, when using any machine. Here are some key tips to keep your home and family safe when using common household appliances.

Install GFCI Outlets

We all know that appliances should generally be kept away from water due to the risk of electric shock. However, simply separating appliances from water is just the start.

Installing a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet is a must if appliances or outlets are near water or in damp locations. If there’s a power fluctuation caused by water and appliances coming into contact, these outlets will trip the circuit and stop the flow of electricity. This keeps people safe from electric shock and helps protect appliances from being overloaded.

GFCI outlets are often needed in locations prone to water exposure or damp conditions, including:

• Laundry rooms
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Outdoor areas

If you don’t have GFCI outlets, you should consider installing them. This important electrical upgrade can make a huge difference in the safety of your household. 

Avoid Using Extension Cords

Using an extension cord to connect an appliance to an outlet may seem like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, this “no-brainer” is actually a “no-no.”

Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution to power appliances because they:

• Increase the chance of power fluctuations that could damage the appliance
• Increase the number of locations where water could be introduced
• Pose a fire hazard due to the potential for loose connections and sparks
• Can cause wires to overheat and start a fire if the appliance draws more power than the extension cord can handle

Instead of using an extension cord, you may need to move the appliance closer to an appropriate outlet. This small change is key to keeping your home and family safe.

Read the Manual

While appliance user manuals may not be great literature, they have important information about proper usage and appliance troubleshooting. Manuals highlight necessary safety measures and give information on keeping your appliance in good working order.

The user manual will also tell you if your home’s wiring is suitable for the appliance in question. To avoid the risk of fire or appliance damage, it’s essential that your wiring can handle the electrical load of your appliance. If it can’t, you may need to call an electrician to do some upgrades.

The user’s manual will also give you important information about:

• Safe installation and use
• Whether your appliance is suitable for indoor and/or outdoor use
• Best practices to mitigate water exposure

You’ll also get the added benefit of learning about your appliance’s advanced features and any warranties it comes with. Being armed with information upfront will help you prioritize safety and get the most out of your appliance.

Morris County Appliance Repair has been in business since 1962 and we’re proud to serve the appliance repair needs of Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area. Call us today if you have questions about appliance safety, installation, or repairs. We’re licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we offer both emergency service and regular appointments for your convenience. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!