Safety Inspection Guide for Home Appliances

Ever wonder why a fan suddenly stops or a heater trips the breaker? Most of the time it’s a lack of regular safety checks. A quick inspection can catch worn wires, clogged filters or loose parts before they cause a fire or a costly breakdown. Below you’ll find the key things to look at on the appliances you use every day.

Essential Checks for Kitchen Appliances

Extractor fans: Turn the fan on and listen. If it sounds weak or rattles, remove the filter and clean any grease buildup. Inspect the duct for blockages – a piece of foil or dust can stop airflow and make the fan overheat. Test the vent flap; it should open fully when the fan runs. If the motor smells burnt, call a pro.

Oven and hob: Switch them on and watch the heating elements. A cracked element will flicker or stay cold. For electric hobs, press each zone; any that don’t heat up need a reset or a wiring check. Check the oven door seal – a cracked gasket lets heat escape and forces the element to work harder.

Refrigerator: Pull the fridge away from the wall and vacuum the coil at the back. A dusty coil raises the compressor temperature and can cause the unit to shut off. Inside, make sure the door gasket is clean and unbroken; a leaky seal makes the motor run nonstop.

Dishwasher: Look at the bottom for standing water. If you see water after a cycle, the drain hose may be kinked or the filter clogged. Remove the filter, clear any debris, and run a short rinse cycle. Also, check the spray arms for blocked holes.

Freezer: Frost buildup over ¼ inch means the door isn’t sealing or the defrost timer is stuck. Defrost manually, clean the gasket, and ensure the freezer stays level. A temperature that rises above -18°C risks food safety.

When to Call a Professional

If you hear buzzing, see sparks, or the breaker trips repeatedly, stop using the appliance immediately. Electrical faults in hot‑water heaters, ovens or extractor fans can be dangerous and need a certified electrician. Likewise, a loud grinding noise from a washing machine or boiler is a sign of internal wear that only a qualified tech should handle.

Even with the best DIY checks, some issues require specialised tools – like testing a water‑heater element with a multimeter or measuring refrigerant pressure in a fridge. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s safer (and often cheaper) to book a visit from Bridgewater Appliance Fixers. We’ll do a full safety inspection, spot hidden problems, and give you a clear repair plan.

Keep this checklist handy and run through it once a year. A few minutes of inspection now can save you from a fire, a burst pipe or an unexpected appliance replacement later. Stay safe, stay savvy, and let the pros handle the heavy lifting when you need it.