From Thanksgiving turkey to Christmas cookies, one of the best parts of the holidays is the fantastic food. If you're planning to host a meal, prepare your kitchen appliances beforehand. This will save you time and stress on the day of the event. Here's what to do to get ready.

4 Tips for Preparing Appliances for Holiday Cooking

1. Oven

Don't use the self-clean function on your oven, as this can damage the wiring. Instead, use heat-free cleaning methods. Oven cleaner and a hard-bristle brush can get rid of caked-up residue.

Once it's clean, calibrate the oven's temperature. Pre-heat it and place an oven thermometer inside. After ten minutes, check the thermometer. Does it read the same as the desired temperature? If not, check the oven's manual to calibrate it.

2. Sink & Garbage Disposal

You may use your sink for various prep tasks, from defrosting the turkey to soaking cranberries. Clean and disinfect your sink to eliminate bacteria or viruses before you start cooking. 

Also, run your garbage disposal to make sure it's working. You don't want to deal with a backed-up sink on the day of your dinner.

3. Refrigerator

Clean out your fridge and make space for the leftovers you will inevitably have after a large feast. If you haven't cleaned your fridge's coils in the last six months, take care of this task now.

Use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment to remove dust and debris. If the coils have grime sitting on them, they can’t cool food as efficiently.

4. Dishwasher

After the feast is over, you don't want to spend hours washing dishes, pots, and pans by hand. Ensure your dishwasher is ready for the big job ahead. Use a dishwasher cleaner to remove stains, eliminate mineral buildup, and get rid of odors. If your dishwasher has a removable filter, clean this now.

If your appliances aren't working, trust Carolina Appliance Service for a quick fix. Located in Matthews, NC, these professionals have been providing the Charlotte area with top-quality appliance repairs since 1993. A locally owned business, they pride themselves on affordable and honest service. Visit their website for a list of services. For assistance, call (704) 847-0004.