10 tips for trouble-free kitchens

Save money on hiring professionals by dealing with minor problems before they become costly repair jobs. Better still, avoid problems occurring in the first place by following these ten tips on regular maintenance.

If your washing machine or any other major kitchen appliance starts to give you trouble, run some checks before you resort to calling in the repairmen.

• Is the machine properly plugged in?
• Are the sockets and fuses all OK?
• Check that the electrical cord isn't damaged.
• Is there a filter that is clogged up?
• Check that the machine is level.

Lime scale shortens the life of your machine and causes breakdowns, so descale regularly.

• Remove furring from inside a washing machine by running it on empty with 600 millilitres (2 1/2 cups) of white vinegar, followed by a rinse wash.
• For a dishwasher, add 250 millilitres (one cup) of white vinegar and run the empty dishwasher on a rinse-and-hold cycle. Then add detergent and run through a cycle to clean the machine.

Clean filters in the washing machine and tumble dryer on a regular basis. Similarly, remove food particles from the dishwasher filter once a week.

A local appliance dealer can sell you touch-up paint. A scratch on a washing machine or fridge quickly creates rust, which spreads the damage.

• For minor blemishes, paint on a thin coat, allow it to dry and smooth it out with a fine rubbing compound used on car bodies.
• For deeper gashes and nicks, build up paint in layers, allowing each one to dry before adding the next.

Ensure that you have good airflow through the kitchen. Wash stove fan grills and filters regularly to prevent moisture build-up. Filters should be replaced periodically.

Put a handful of washing soda and boiling water down the drain regularly to prevent the U-bend from filling up with food waste. Keep tea leaves, rice and vegetable peelings out of sinks — use a bowl to catch them and prevent them clogging the drain.

Appliances work best when level, so use a spirit level to check from side to side and back to front. Screw legs or casters up or down as needed.

Put a flashlight with a beam into the fridge, shut the door and switch off the kitchen lights. Any light leaking out of the fridge is a sign that the seal is damaged. Mend it cheaply with silicon sealant, or buy a replacement seal at an appliance store.

If the hose on your washing machine springs a leak, fix it cheaply by replacing the faulty hose at your local DIY store.

Make sure there is enough space between the fridge and the wall for adequate airflow. Keep the coil at the back of the fridge dust-free. Check the fridge temperature setting and defrost timer from time to time and adjust as necessary.

These tips will help you maintain your large appliances and kitchen so is doesn't become a financial burden later. However, don't attempt a DIY repair if the appliance is still under guarantee or extended warranty. Instead, get the maker or warranty provider to fix it.