Kitchen Maintenance: Simple Steps to Keep Everything Working

Running a kitchen feels like juggling pans, pots, and gadgets all at once. The good news? A few easy habits can stop small problems from turning into costly repairs. Below are the everyday checks that keep your extractor fan humming, your oven heating right, and your pressure cooker safe.

Extractor Fans – Clean, Test, and Listen

The extractor fan is the unsung hero that pulls steam and smells away. First, wipe the visible grill every month with warm, soapy water. Next, pull out the filter (if you have one) and soak it for at least ten minutes – that removes grease that can choke the motor. After cleaning, turn the fan on and listen. A whirring sound that’s louder than usual often means the motor bearings need a quick oil drop or the fan blades are caught in debris. If the fan still sputters or won’t turn, it’s time to call a pro before the motor burns out.

Remember to check the vent outside your home. A blocked or clogged vent can force the fan to work harder, reducing its lifespan. A quick visual inspection each season is all it takes.

Oven Care – Spot Trouble Early

Ovens get the most heat, so they wear out faster than other appliances. Keep the interior clean – spilled food left to bake can harden into a crust that affects temperature distribution. When you notice uneven baking or a longer pre‑heat time, open the oven and look for a cracked heating element or burnt marks. A quick test: turn the oven on low and see if the element glows evenly. If you spot dark spots or the element stays cold, a replacement is cheaper than a full oven overhaul.

Check the door seal too. A worn gasket lets heat escape, hiking up your energy bill and putting extra strain on the heating element. A simple cloth wipe each month and a visual check for cracks will tell you when it’s time for a new gasket.

Pressure Cookers – Safety First

Pressure cookers are great for fast meals, but they need regular care. After each use, clean the sealing ring with warm water and a little dish soap. Inspect the ring for cracks or hardening; a damaged ring can cause dangerous pressure leaks.

Also, empty the pressure release valve of any food bits. A blocked valve stops pressure from escaping, which can trigger the safety lock. If the safety valve won’t pop, stop using the cooker until a professional checks the gasket and valve mechanism.

Water Heater – Flush or Drain?

Water heaters collect sediment over time, which lowers efficiency and can cause noisy rattling. The easiest method is to flush the tank once a year: attach a garden hose to the drain valve, open the valve, and let water run until it’s clear. If sediment is thick, a full drain and refill works better – just shut off power or gas, let the tank cool, then open the drain fully.

While you’re at it, check the anode rod (usually a metal stick inside the tank). If it’s corroded, replace it; a fresh rod can add years to the heater’s life.

By sticking to these quick checks – cleaning fan filters, watching oven heat, inspecting pressure cooker seals, and flushing the water heater – you’ll avoid most emergency calls. A little time each month saves you a lot of hassle and money down the road. Got a specific problem? Our detailed guides walk you through each fix step‑by‑step, so you can decide whether to DIY or call a certified engineer. Keep your kitchen humming, and enjoy cooking without worrying about breakdowns.