8 Home Appliances That Work Hardest in Summer—and How to Protect Them

Refrigerators and Freezers

Because both a fridge and a freezer’s main goal is to keep your food cold or frozen, it’s no surprise that they work harder in the hotter months to maintain proper temperature.

To explain, both units remove the hot air from inside the appliance and then expel it through the condenser coils. If the condenser coils are already in a hot environment, it’s harder for them to get rid of the heat. This results in increased energy costs and strain on the appliance. 

Klosterman says compressors and fans are the parts most likely to break down. To help keep these appliances running efficiently, she recommends the following.

• Avoid cramming shelves too full, since that restricts airflow.
• Make it a habit to inspect door seals for cracks or gaps that let cold air escape.
• Every six to 12 months, vacuum the condenser coils to reduce strain on the motor and lower the risk of overheating.
• Position these appliances out of direct sunlight and away from heat-producing devices whenever possible.

Air Conditioners

To the shock of no one, air conditioning units are one of the top appliances that can break down in the summer. Since many will keep their systems running nearly nonstop to keep the house cool, AC units can get a ton of heavy use for multiple months at a time. Klosterman says they can easily overheat or break, leading to water damage, electrical issues, or fire hazards.

Klosterman says the maintenance you do (or don’t do) has a huge effect on your AC unit’s lifespan. Here are her top tips to reduce breakdowns.

• Swap out (or clean) your unit’s air filters every one to three months for better airflow (depending on factors like air quality, allergies, and pets in the home).
• Remove grass, leaves, and debris from the outdoor condenser.
• Ensure the condensate drain line isn’t clogged and can drain properly.
• Before temperatures rise, book a tune-up with a professional so it's prepared for the work ahead.

Water Heaters

Although you're likely not taking long, steamy showers in the summer, your water heater is still taking a beating. With loads of laundry piling up, kids home from school, and potential houseguests, Klosterman says water usage can spike alongside the temperature.

To maintain your water heater in the hotter months, Klosterman recommends the following.

• Flushing out the tank annually to remove sediment buildup and boost efficiency.
• Test the pressure relief valve once a year to confirm it’s functioning correctly.
• Inspect the base of the unit for signs of rust, corrosion, or leaks.
• Set the thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to cut down on energy use and extend the system’s lifespan.

Washing Machines and Dryers

Summer can get messy. Everything from sopping wet swimsuits to ketchup-stained overalls needs a wash, and laundry quickly piles up.

Since your washer and dryer likely see increased usage during the summer months, Klosterman says the hoses, pumps, and motors are more at risk of breaking than usual. Plus, the heat and humidity make it more difficult for your dryer to vent moisture properly.

These factors make it especially important to maintain your laundry room staples with the following tips.

• Check the water supply hose frequently for leaks, cracks, and clogs.
• Clear the dryer’s lint trap each time before using it to prevent fires.
• Vacuum regularly behind the dryer and vents to remove dust and buildup.
• Keep the washing machine door open between uses to prevent mold and mildew.
• Run a monthly cleaning cycle using vinegar to keep the machine fresh.

Ovens and Microwaves

“High heat and summer humidity can also take a toll on kitchen appliances,” Klosterman says. “Excess moisture can seep into electronic components, increasing the risk of malfunctions in ovens and microwaves. Over time, this could lead to electrical issues or mold and mildew growth, especially in less-ventilated areas.”

To keep your oven and microwave in working order (and ready for all that coking and baking come fall), see the following tips.

• Regularly inspect your oven’s gasket to ensure it is keeping the heat properly sealed inside.
• Clean up crumbs and spills to minimize fire hazards.
• If you have an over-the-range microwave, wash or replace the grease and charcoal filters to keep airflow unobstructed.
• Check vents for moisture and regularly dry them.