A kitchen cannot be complete without an oven. It is one major home appliance that you can rely on anytime of the day—from simple frying to baking and other complicated cooking methods. Because of its usefulness and functionality, some high-quality ovens are handed down from one generation to the next. Here are some oven maintenance tips to prolong your oven’s durability and length of service:
1. Clean spills right away.
Mop up spills or splatters immediately before they set. Use a wet cloth to wipe off the mess as soon as it has cooled down. Mix baking soda and white vinegar to clean your oven thoroughly. Soak the grates in this mixture overnight for deep cleaning. Do this three to four times a year. You can also do spot cleaning when necessary.
2. Do not remove dials and knobs.
Never attempt to remove dials and knobs when cleaning. Water could get into the electrical wiring and cause a short circuit. To clean dials and knobs, simply wipe them with a damp cloth.
3. Protect your oven against spills.
Use a baking sheet when cooking dishes that might spill. This will lessen the mess, prevent stains, and make cleaning easier and faster.
4. Clean your filter and hood.
The filter and hood of an electric range catch the grease and moisture as you cook your favorite dishes. Make sure to clean them regularly to avoid getting clogged and stained. Follow the manufacturer’s manual for cleaning instructions and recommendations regarding replacement. For gas range, use detergent and hot water to clean the grates and burners.
5. Use a natural cleanser.
Commercial cleansers contain abrasive components that are harsh on your oven’s finish. They also leave residue that can get into your food, making it unsafe for consumption. To prevent this, opt to use natural cleansers such as baking soda and vinegar. Wipe off the grease in your oven with a soft cloth. For hard stains, spray them with the mixture to loosen the dirt. Then use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad to remove the stubborn dirt.
6. Check door gaskets and port inserts.
Oven doors normally have moisture as you cook food. However, too much moisture can mean faulty door gasket. Watch out for gaps and missing pieces. These could lead to heat loss and result to longer cooking time and higher energy bill. Ask a professional to check your oven doors and other port inserts. If you’re looking for experts in home or commercial oven repair, there are various service providers in Salt Lake City. Feel free to contact them for assistance.
7. Observe caution when using aluminum foil.
Aluminum foil reflects too much heat. According to experts, foil used to line the bottom of your oven can melt and damage your oven. If possible, avoid using it to line the bottom of your oven. If it is absolutely necessary, be cautious in doing so because it can become a fire hazard.
8. Keep motors lubricated.
Ovens with a sleeve-bearing motor blower should be lubricated every six months, while those with pre-lubricated motors do not need additional lubrication. Keep this in mind to avoid unnecessary blunders.
9. Use the correct amount of power.
A lack of power can lead to poor appliance performance. When using your appliance, make sure that it has the right amount of power to operate. A buck-boost transformer can help your appliance function smoothly. A well-maintained oven prevents costly repairs and premature replacements. On top of it, routine maintenance prolongs your oven’s life. To maximize your oven’s functionality, keep a maintenance schedule.
