In today’s digital age, our lives are intertwined with an array of home electronics that make our daily tasks more efficient and entertaining. From smartphones and laptops to refrigerators and air conditioners, these devices have become an integral part of our routines. To make sure they last as long as possible, adopting a few simple maintenance habits can go a long way.
Here are some tips to help you take better care of your home electronics, whether they’re the latest gadgets or often-overlooked appliances:
Caring for gadgets: TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets and more
- Clean regularly: Dust and dirt can accumulate on screens, keyboards and device surfaces, affecting performance and the way they look. Use microfiber cloths and screen-safe cleaning solutions to gently wipe these devices clean.
- Temperature control: Avoid exposing electronics to extreme temperatures. High heat or cold can harm batteries and internal components. Store them in a cool, dry place.
- Charging practices: Overcharging can degrade battery life. Unplug your devices when fully charged and avoid letting the battery drain completely before recharging.
- Update software: Regularly update the software on your devices — these often include security enhancements and bug fixes.
- Use surge protectors: Protect your electronics from power surges by using surge protectors — which can prevent damage caused by sudden voltage spikes.
- Proper storage: When not in use, store your gadgets in protective cases to shield them from accidental bumps or scratches.
Caring for your home appliances: Refrigerators, dishwashers, vacuums, air conditioners and more
- Clean condenser coils: For refrigerators and air conditioners, clean the condenser coils regularly. Dust and debris can impact their efficiency.
- Maintain filters: Replace or clean filters in your appliances like dishwashers, vacuums and air purifiers as recommended. Clogged filters can reduce performance.
- Check seals and gaskets: Ensure the seals on your refrigerator and dishwasher are intact. This prevents air leaks that can lead to inefficiency and increased energy consumption.
- Empty dust containers: If you have a bagless vacuum, empty the dust container regularly to maintain its suction power.
- Security system updates: Keep your security system’s firmware up to date. Remember to regularly test alarms and sensors to ensure they’re functioning as they should.
- Annual maintenance: Consider scheduling professional maintenance for appliances like air conditioners and central vacuum systems to identify and take care of potential issues.
Taking care of your electronics you can extend their lifespan, save you money and reduce electronic waste. How do you take care of your home electronics? We’d love to hear from you — share your ideas and tips with the Shop Talk community!
Did you know? Phantom power
Phantom power or vampire power is the energy used by appliances and electronics when they’re turned off but still plugged in. These sleeping devices may account for as much as 10% of household energy usage. One of the easiest ways to reduce phantom power consumption is to plug your devices into a power strip then turn the power strip off when they’re not in use. [Source]