Preventing Maintenance Problems with Appliances
Answers for Renters

Nowadays, apartments and rental homes include many major appliances for the convenience of renters. Common appliances found in a typical rental include a range, oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher and perhaps a washer and dryer. When any one of these appliances stops working, it can cause an inconvenience.
        
Keeping these appliances in working condition is the responsibility of your property manager. However, you could be held liable for the cost of any repair or replacement if the problem was caused by your misuse or negligence.
        
Here are some tips to avoid the most common problems with appliances. Clean them regularly. For instance, many range tops can be lifted up so you can clean the grease and food particles under the burners.
        
Use appliances only as intended. Do not use dye in the washing machine because it will bleed onto future loads of clothing. Remove the lint from the lint trap in your dryer after every load. This will dry your clothes faster and prolong the life of the appliance. Do not put metal objects in a microwave because they will cause electrical arcs and damage the unit.
        
If you have any questions regarding the use or problems with any appliance, contact your property manager. Your property manager would be wise to provide simple written instructions on how to use your appliances and respond to any maintenance concerns promptly.