Preparing Your Appliances for New England Winter

New England winters present unique challenges for household appliances. From frozen water lines to increased compressor strain, the cold months require extra attention to keep your luxury appliances running smoothly. Here is what Greater Boston homeowners need to know.

Refrigerators and freezers work differently in winter. While it might seem logical that cold weather would make their job easier, the opposite can be true. Many refrigerators are designed to operate in moderate temperatures. If placed in an unheated garage or basement that drops below 35 degrees, the compressor may not run often enough, causing the freezer section to thaw.

Ice makers are particularly vulnerable to winter issues. Water supply lines running through exterior walls or unheated spaces can freeze. Before the first hard freeze, check your ice maker line and consider insulating exposed pipes. If you notice decreased ice production or hollow cubes, a partial freeze may be developing.

Ranges and ovens see increased use during the holidays and cold months. This is actually beneficial as regular use keeps components limber and functioning. However, the increased demand can reveal hidden problems. Schedule a pre-season inspection to catch issues before Thanksgiving.

Power outages from winter storms require preparation. Keep your refrigerator and freezer full if possible. A full freezer maintains temperature longer during outages. Avoid opening doors unnecessarily. A refrigerator will keep food safe for about 4 hours if unopened; a full freezer can maintain temperature for 48 hours.

For coastal homes in Hingham, Cohasset, and Scituate, winter brings additional challenges. Salt air can accelerate corrosion on metal components. Consider more frequent maintenance inspections if you live near the water.

After the winter season, schedule a spring maintenance check. Winter strain can cause subtle damage that, if left unaddressed, leads to summer failures during peak cooling season.