I have seen so many preventable breakdowns in my 20-year career as an appliance technician. The biggest and most preventable is the demise of the refrigerator.

I do understand how difficult it is to take care of these large units. They are so hard to move. And out of sight out of mind is bliss. But remember that if you are hot in the sweltering summer, so is your appliance. And they can’t perspire.

Refrigerators are in danger of overheating, especially when they are kept outside or in the garage.

Set up a maintenance appointment with your local technician. Have them clean the coils and condensers, check the seals on gaskets, level the unit and read and/or clean fan blades and casings and make a filter replacement, if needed.

Remember one thing that is imperative to know” As on autos, regular maintenance on refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers has been proven almost 100% to add years to the life of your investment.

In our current economic climate who would not want to extend the life of an appliance? Don’t wait until the problems get too hot to handle: Maintenance can save you so much more in the long run.