House hunting can be a long, stressful process, and it’s tempting to sign the dotted line for the first house you like. However, before you finalize the sale, make sure you’ve tested every appliance in the home. You might feel strange running an empty dishwasher, but appliance repairs are expensive, and a replacement can be even pricier. Here are a few ways to inspect the appliances that come with the house.

A Guide to Checking the Appliances Before Buying a House

1. Rust

Rust is formed when moisture on some metals react with oxygen. Over time, it causes the material to weaken and break down, leading to appliance repairs. Refrigerators and dishwashers are especially susceptible to rust since they are often made of metal and work with water. Examine the doors, sides, and top for a brown or reddish crust that has formed on top of the appliance.

2. Door Seals

On any doors, make sure the seals don’t leak by opening them and looking for any major nicks, cracks, or rips. You can also shut a piece of paper in the door, and then pull it out. If you feel resistance, the seal is strong; however, if it’s easy to pull the paper out, the seal is likely old and damaged, and you might need appliance repairs. Repeat this process along the entire edge of the seal; just because one section seals properly doesn’t mean the rest of it does.

3. Leaks

Inspect the floor and walls surrounding the appliances for water stains, and pay attention when you run the washing machine and dishwasher. Water damage can quickly lead to mold, which can lead to respiratory problems for people in your home. Check for warped flooring or bubbling paint on the wall near the appliance, and see if you notice any musty odors.

Buying a home is a complex project, and it can be easy to overlook certain aspects, such as the appliances. If you find yourself needing appliance repairs, contact Complete Appliance Service. They have been proudly serving northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati, OH, for almost 40 years, repairing everything from washers and dryers to refrigerators and ovens. Call (513) 661-3708 to schedule an inspection, or visit them online to learn more about their services.