Winter Appliance Maintenance: 5 Top Appliances to Care for

The cold is hard on virtually every part of your home, so homeowners tend to be more careful during winter. Your focus might turn to your heating system and insulation to ensure that everyone stays comfortable for the coming months. But it’s just as important to think about home appliance care and the impact that seasonal changes can have on their performance. The buildup of dust, moisture, and other residues can cause appliances to work harder than necessary, leading to potential breakdowns.

Household appliances cost a lot of money, and if they aren’t properly cared for and serviced, they can cost a lot more to repair or replace. Let’s look at the top five appliances that need some extra TLC in winter and explain how you can get ahead of problems so you don’t have to go without the essentials.

Why Is Appliance Maintenance Important?

Appliance maintenance means not worrying that your household equipment will malfunction unexpectedly. Regular maintenance improves energy efficiency, which helps lower energy bills. It also preserves essential appliance parts, extending their lifespan.

Due to destructive freezes and heavier usage, appliances are more likely to fail in winter. However, performing routine appliance maintenance ensures your systems function properly and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns. If issues arise, early troubleshooting can help identify problems before they worsen. When necessary, professional repair technicians can provide expert solutions to get your appliances back up and running. Without a home warranty plan, you may be left covering the full cost of repairs or replacements out of pocket—an expense that can add up quickly.

How Expensive Are Appliances?

Many homeowners dedicate a significant portion of their budgets to appliances, often opting for major brands known for reliability and performance. The cost of these household staples can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for larger, more advanced systems.

The Cost of Good Systems

There is practically no limit to what you might pay for a top-quality unit, but you might expect to pay the following for a new appliance:

• Refrigerators: $800+
• Washing Machines: $500+
• Dryers: $500+
• Dishwashers: $300+
• Ovens and Ranges: $600+

A reliable unit will still come at a significant cost, even on the lower end of the price range. While cheaper systems may seem like a budget-friendly choice, they often come with hidden expenses. Frequent breakdowns can lead to repeated calls for an appliance repair service, and lower-quality workmanship may result in inefficiencies that drive up energy bills. In the long run, these factors can make bargain appliances a more costly investment than they initially appear.

The Average Cost of Fixes

Home appliance repairs can be a hefty expense if an appliance breaks down. Here are some common repair costs to consider:

• Refrigerator: $250+
• Washing Machine: $150+
• Dryer: $200+
• Dishwasher: $150+
• Oven: $150+

The price will vary depending on how severe the problem is and the brand of appliance. But one thing is clear: Repairs are costly, especially if you need multiple repairs at the same time. That makes routine appliance maintenance and a home warranty smart investments.

The 5 Essentials That Need Appliance Maintenance in Winter

Now that you know how much appliances cost, here are the five that need extra care in winter.

1. Refrigerators

While it’s true that summer can bring about some unique challenges for your fridge, so can winter. Compressors may struggle with lower temperatures, reducing efficiency. The holidays also mean storing more food, forcing your fridge to work harder to maintain proper cooling. Additionally, water filters and ice makers can be affected by colder temperatures, potentially leading to blockages or reduced performance if not properly maintained.

2. Washing Machines

Snow and sleet can leave clothes muddy and dirty, making a reliable washer essential during winter. However, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your washer by causing water in the hoses to freeze, leading to leaks and potential damage. These freezes can affect not just your washer but also your plumbing system. To avoid costly washer repairs, take preventive steps and ensure your washer machine is winter-ready.

3. Dryers

In colder months, wearing extra layers means more laundry—and your dryer is put to the test. Increased use can lead to accumulated lint, which not only reduces your dryer's efficiency but also poses a serious fire hazard. Ensuring your dryer is clean and well-maintained is especially important during the winter to keep your laundry routine safe and efficient.

4. Dishwashers

Your dishwasher works overtime during the holidays, tackling the extra load from festive gatherings. However, when temperatures drop, cold weather can impact its performance, with freezing pipes and drain lines posing a significant risk. While focusing on larger appliances, it’s essential not to overlook small appliances, as they too can be affected by winter conditions and require proper care to keep your household running smoothly.

5. Heating Systems

Your HVAC heating system is the most important piece of equipment your home has during winter. Annual appliance maintenance is crucial, whether you have a furnace, boiler, or heat pump. If possible, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection before the cold settles in. 

How Can a Home Warranty Help Cover Appliance Costs?

Home warranty plans, such as ARW Home, provide phenomenal peace of mind, offering a safety net for unexpected appliance repairs. These service contracts help cover the cost of repairing or replacing major appliances in your home when they break down.

A home warranty can save you from surprise repair bills, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars. With coverage extending to various appliances, including those prone to winter breakdowns, you’re protected when it matters most. Plus, many plans include an extensive service area, ensuring help is always just a call away, no matter where you live.

Get the Care You Need With ARW Home

ARW Home is here to equip you with a home warranty that can save you thousands of dollars on appliance maintenance and repair. Contact us today to learn more about our appliance coverage plans and find one that works for you!