Ever used your self-cleaning oven feature? The consensus is that it smells. Bad. Typically, a self-cleaning oven works by using high heat to separate food molecules and turn them to ash that can be easily wiped away, although a few types use steam and lower heat instead. This feature can help save you time and energy when dealing with tough oven messes, but at what cost? What Causes Self-Cleaning ...
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Recent Posts in Home Safety Category
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Clean but Smelly: Why Do Self-Cleaning Ovens Smell So Bad?
January 14, 2020 -
How to Make a Solar Oven Science Project
December 23, 2019 Solar power is a renewable energy source that can help you save on your monthly bills or reduce your carbon footprint and may be used for a vast array of applications including cooking. Whether you are camping or just experimenting for fun, building a solar oven can help you understand the science behind solar power, and it makes a fun project for all ages. Read on to learn how to make a solar ...Continue Reading -
Winter Warm Up: Your New Favorite Dutch Oven Bread Recipe
December 17, 2019 There is no scent that is more familiar, enticing, or comforting than that of freshly baked bread, but for many, the process of mixing and kneading the dough and then waiting for it to rise may seem intimidating. The best way to enjoy the taste and aroma of a warm loaf straight from the oven without all the fuss is with Dutch oven bread—a perfect alternative to a more traditional dough that is ...Continue Reading -
Microwave No More: How to Make Popcorn on the Stove
December 10, 2019 Microwave popcorn may be quick and convenient, but it is no match for the taste and quality of traditional stovetop popcorn. By itself, popcorn is a relatively healthy snack, and making popcorn on the stove allows you to control the amount of fat and salt you consume which can benefit those with health concerns or dietary restrictions. If you have ever read the label on a package of microwave ...Continue Reading -
Create Something Together: Helpful Tips for Baking with the Kids
December 3, 2019 One of the many challenges of parenting is finding fun activities to keep your kids engaged. In the summer, it’s easy to spend afternoons at the park, but during the winter, you may be cooped up inside. If you’re short on ideas, Mr. Appliance® is here to help! How about creating something in the kitchen together? There’s no better way to spend time with your kids on a cold and/or snowy day than ...Continue Reading -
Be Smart About Laundry—Invest in a Smart Washer, Dryer
November 26, 2019 Whether you love it or hate it, laundry is a chore that you can't avoid—but the right appliances can help to make the process much less daunting while saving you valuable time and energy. When it comes time to replace your laundry equipment, a smart washer dryer combo is a great option that gives you the flexibility and freedom to control your equipment from wherever life takes you using any wi-fi ...Continue Reading -
How Does an Air Fryer Work? Your Appliance Explained
November 19, 2019 Deep-fried foods are undeniably delicious, but high levels of fat and cholesterol can render them an unhealthy option for health-conscious individuals, or anyone who is watching their weight. Although it was once a near-impossible task to mimic the crispy exterior and juicy interior of foods that have been cooked in hot oil, air fryer technology has leveled the playing field—but how does an air ...Continue Reading -
The Pros and Cons of a Ventless Dryer
November 12, 2019 According to the Statista.com , close to 81% percent of Canadian households are equipped with a clothes dryer. Whether homeowners choose a gas or electric dryer, nearly all are vented to the outdoors—but there is another option. A ventless dryer is the ideal solution in a number of applications, but if you're on the fence about whether or not one is right for you read on to learn everything you ...Continue Reading -
What a Smart Refrigerator Could Do for Your Kitchen
November 5, 2019 For decades, refrigerators have served the critical purpose of keeping perishable food cold. Many of today’s modern appliances feature smart technology to make life even easier! Explore how a wide array of smart refrigerator features can take your kitchen to the next level. Smart Refrigerator Features Smart refrigerators have a large touchscreen interface and connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. ...Continue Reading -
How Long Do Microwave Ovens Last? The Lifespan of a Microwave
October 22, 2019 While earlier versions of the microwave oven were met with cool reviews due to concerns over safety, size, and price, today, According to a December 2012 study released by Statistics Canada, (the Canadian agency tasked with collecting and publishing statistics) 94.2 percent of households own a microwave oven. This versatile, compact device saves both time and energy on tasks such as cooking and ...Continue Reading -
Dryer Not Drying, Heating, or Spinning? Here’s What to Do
October 15, 2019 With an average lifespan of about 14 years, you can expect to enjoy years of reliable service from your dryer, but a lack of maintenance or old age may cause it to underperform or periodically break down. You can avoid downtime and costly repairs by paying close attention to warning signs and knowing when to call the experts. Read on to learn what to do if your dryer won't spin, heat, or dry, from ...Continue Reading -
How Long Do Dishwashers Last?
October 3, 2019 Dishwashers are a modern convenience that can be found in most kitchens across the nation, and like other common household appliances they have a relatively predictable lifespan. Learn what to expect from your dishwasher and some helpful tips on how to maximize your investment, with expert advice from Mr. Appliance®. How Long Should a Dishwasher Last? There are a number of variables that can ...Continue Reading -
The Best Gifts for Cooks
September 17, 2019 For some, cooking is merely a means to end but for others, it is a passion. Whether you know a well-seasoned chef or one who is just starting to learn, each will have their own unique sense of style and flair when it comes to creating a meal. While this can make it challenging to shop for these individuals around birthdays or holidays, the kitchen experts at Mr. Appliance® have a number of great ...Continue Reading -
How to Become a Soup Kitchen Volunteer
September 17, 2019 Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community in which you live and can be a valuable and rewarding experience. By becoming a soup kitchen volunteer you can help to provide hot, healthy meals to those in need and make a real difference regardless of how much time you have to spare. Read on to learn how to get started, with helpful information and tips from the dedicated team of ...Continue Reading -
How to Clean a Deep Fryer and Say Goodbye to Grease
August 13, 2019 Deep frying adds a unique flavor and texture to food that is impossible to replicate and is one of the main reasons that restaurant food is so appealing. You can achieve similar results at home with an electric or stovetop deep fryer, but it's important to ensure it is cleaned properly on a regular basis. Read on for some deep fryer cleaning tips from the experts at Mr. Appliance® to stop grease ...Continue Reading -
Troubleshooting Tips for When Your Dryer Won’t Start
July 30, 2019 Have you discovered that your dryer won’t start up? There are several possible reasons that a gas or electric dryer won’t turn on; hopefully, it’s a simple issue such as a tripped breaker, a broken switch, or a defective latch. These straightforward troubleshooting tips will help you pinpoint the problem and take appropriate action. You may be able to fix the problem yourself, but more complicated ...Continue Reading -
Know Your Appliances: What in the World Is a Garburator?
July 16, 2019 Modern conveniences are designed to save space, time, and money by performing any number of unpleasant household tasks quickly and efficiently. One such item that can be found in homes across the globe is a garburator, and while you may not know what one is you may be surprised to find that you have one in your kitchen. What's in a Name? Travelling the world is a great way to expand your horizons, ...Continue Reading -
How to Make Slime with Laundry Detergent and Shampoo
June 11, 2019 When it comes to school science, experiments slime ranks number one, giving students a hands-on way to learn about chemical reactions, polymers, and viscosity. Creating slime at home is even more fun and can provide you and your children with hours of enjoyment using just a few common ingredients. Put away the electronics and get back to basics with these tips on how to make slime with laundry ...Continue Reading -
Super Cool Refrigerator History
May 21, 2019 It's hard to imagine your home without a refrigerator, but as little as 100 years ago Canadians relied on alternative methods of food preservation according to the type of food and the surrounding climate. Read on to learn more about the evolution of this modern-day marvel courtesy of the seasoned professionals at Mr. Appliance®, from the old-fashioned icebox to the technologically advanced smart ...Continue Reading -
Can You Put Styrofoam in the Microwave? Reheat Food Safely
March 26, 2019 Microwave ovens are a useful addition to any kitchen and in most circumstances, they are considered to be a time-saving alternative for heating, cooking, and defrosting a variety of foods. One of the most common uses for this technology is the reheating of leftovers which poses the question, "Can you put styrofoam in the microwave?" This popular material is often used by restaurants and fast food ...Continue Reading -
Are Microwaves Safe or Dangerous?
March 5, 2019 When microwave ovens were first introduced in the late 1960s they revolutionized the way people reheat, defrost, and cook their food. While they were once considered a luxury item, they can now be found in nearly every home across the country. But like most modern conveniences it's important to learn all you can about how microwave ovens work and whether or not they are a safe alternative to more ...Continue Reading -
Can You Put Hot Food in Your Refrigerator?
February 19, 2019 If you're like most people food safety is somewhat of a mystery. Unfortunately, the consequences associated with improper food handling and storage can be dire, ranging from mild stomach upset to severe illness or even death—prompting a need for strict adherence to food safety guidelines. One of the most common dilemmas that homeowners face is whether or not to put hot food in the refrigerator, ...Continue Reading -
How to Fix a Clogged Garburator
December 18, 2018 A garburator is a modern convenience which can help to significantly reduce the amount of waste that your home produces. What is not convenient, however, is a clogged garburator , which can occur for any number of reasons. Read on to learn some helpful tips to prevent clogs from recurring and great advice on how to fix a clogged garburator from the experts at Mr. Appliance®. What Causes a ...Continue Reading -
How to Reset a Garbage Disposal
December 11, 2018 Your garbage disposal has a tough job, grinding up leftover organic material into liquefied waste so that it can easily flow through your wastewater pipe. As with any other appliance, a number of things can go wrong with your disposal which may cause it to malfunction or break down—but unlike your stove or refrigerator, you may be able to solve the issue yourself with the touch of a button. Before ...Continue Reading -
Kitchen Ventilation | Downdraft vs. Hood Fan
November 13, 2018 Cooking a great meal can make your entire home smell wonderful, but it can also wreak havoc on surfaces, cause your kitchen to look worn and dingy and even create heat, fumes, smoke and/or odors that can make you feel unwell. The answer? Proper kitchen ventilation—but before you decide which type is best for your home it is important to learn about the difference between downdraft vs. hood fan ...Continue Reading -
How to Troubleshoot the 6 Most Common Appliance Problems
August 28, 2018 Not every appliance problem has to come with the hassle and expense of a professional repair. In many cases, the fixes are simple enough to do yourself in just a few minutes. Before you call for help, keep your appliances running smoothly with these tips from our appliance experts. 1. Smelly Washing Machine A bad odor in your washing machine can defeat the purpose of the appliance! If you're ...Continue Reading -
Why is My Gas Stove Clicking?
August 21, 2018 Gas stoves are the pride and joy of any self-respecting chef. If this is what you have in your kitchen, you’re probably accustomed to hearing a “click, click, click” when you turn the burner knob. This is the sound of the electric igniter working to light the burner. Once the flame is going, the clicking should stop. Here’s the problem: your gas stove is clicking even after the burner is lit – or ...Continue Reading -
Can I Leave a Chest Freezer Outside?
August 14, 2018 A chest freezer is a great addition to any home and is perfect for large families or anyone who likes to purchase or store food in large quantities. The downside to these handy appliances is their size, and for many, it can be a challenge to determine where to set them up so that they are out of the way, yet easily accessible when needed. While the great outdoors or your garage may seem like great ...Continue Reading -
Be Aware of Safe Meat Temperatures When Grilling
July 17, 2018 Outdoor grilling is a favourite summer pastime, and indoor grilling is the perfect way to create healthy dishes while changing up your regular menu anytime of the year. On the other hand, it's important to cook all meat to a safe temperature to avoid illnesses. Here's what you need to know about safe meat temperatures for a happy grilling season. Get the Right Equipment An instant-read thermometer ...Continue Reading -
How to Defrost a Freezer
June 19, 2018 Many new freezers have a self-defrost feature to keep icy buildup at bay. But if you have an older appliance, you might need to perform this task manually. Removing ice from the walls of your freezer helps it run more efficiently. It also reclaims precious freezer space, so you have more room for frozen dinners and ice cream. If it’s starting to look like the arctic tundra in there, use these ...Continue Reading -
Do Not Attempt to Repair Your Washer Yourself
February 20, 2018 If your washing machine isn’t working right, you may want to try fixing it yourself. However, if you’re still not sure what’s causing the problem after some simple washing machine repair troubleshooting, you should call a professional to prevent risking more damage to your washer. Here are seven of the most common issues you might experience with your washing machine and when to call Mr. ...Continue Reading -
Keep Clutter Off the Top of Your Dryer
January 15, 2018 Few people really consider whether or not they are using their dryer properly. After all, it should be pretty self-evident, right? Make sure the lint trap is clear, then toss your clothes in and turn it on. However, you'd be surprised at how many mistakes people make when using their dryer, mistakes that could result in a possible safety risk. For example, many people place their clothes on top of ...Continue Reading -
The 5 Most Common Oven Issues to Watch Out For
January 2, 2018 Whether you’re cooking dinner for the family on a busy weeknight or planning a fancy home-cooked meal for this weekend’s dinner guests, you don’t have time for oven issues. Here are five of the most common oven issues to watch out for and the steps you can take to troubleshoot them yourself. If you have difficulty getting your oven back up and running, remember to leave trickier repairs to a ...Continue Reading -
Father’s Day Gift Guide: All About Grills
June 16, 2017 The smell of hotdogs and burgers fill the air outside as Dad grills up a delicious dinner on a warm night. Man, our mouths sure are watering! If Dad keeps dropping not so subtle hints about wanting a grill and everything that comes with it, you’ve come to the right place to figure out what to buy him. There’s a ton of grills out there and several types, and it can get confusing but we’re here to ...Continue Reading -
Why You Need to Clean the Lint Filter Every Time
February 16, 2017 You’ve heard that you need to clean the dryer lint trap after every load, but is it true? Let’s discuss the reasons to clean the lint filter, how often you should perform this task, and more useful tips. Why Do You Clean a Dryer Lint Filter? When clothing tumbles around in the dryer, the agitation and high heat cause clothing, towels, and linens to shed some of their fibers. The lint screen ...Continue Reading -
Prime Time for a Dryer Vent Fire
February 2, 2017 As cold weather persists this winter, it remains a prime time for a dryer vent fire. To protect your home and family, learn more about what causes dryer fires and how to prevent them. Why Do More Home Fires Occur in Winter? While forest fires occur primarily during the heat of summer, home fires are more prevalent in the cold, dry months of December through March. Here are several winter-related ...Continue Reading -
Get Your Silverware Drawer Organized ASAP
November 2, 2016 Cooking efficiently relies heavily on drawer organization. All the drawers in your kitchen require some attention, but let’s tackle the silverware drawer first and foremost. With these eight ideas, you’ll have the cutlery under control in no time. Expandable Drawer Organizers Cutlery collections can be large or small, and kitchen drawers don’t come in standard sizes. The solution to this dilemma ...Continue Reading -
Keep Everyone Healthy at School
August 16, 2016 It’s hard to believe summer is already over. Now that the kids are headed back school, they’ll come in contact with germs and contagious bugs from their fellow classmates. You can’t control what happens at school, but you can maintain a clean kitchen to help prevent your family from getting sick this school year. Follow these kitchen cleaning tips for a healthier home. Wash Up Every family member ...Continue Reading -
Proper Dryer Cleaning & Fire Prevention
March 21, 2016 by: Steve Bowles, Mr. Appliance Franchise Consultant This blog was contributed by one of our franchise consultants and dryer vent cleaning experts, Steve Bowles. Clothes dryer vent fires are a real risk to home safety and proper inspection and maintenance of your dryer is a necessity. According to recent news reports citing the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 15,000 fires are ...Continue Reading -
Warning Signs for Appliances
February 25, 2016 As you go about your day, you rely on home appliances more than you probably realize. Only when something goes wrong do you appreciate how dependent you are on your refrigerator, washer and dryer, hot water heater, dishwasher, and oven. Learn how to tell if you should schedule appliance repair and when to opt for a replacement instead. Signs Your Appliances Need Attention The appliance won’t turn ...Continue Reading -
Prevent a Washing Machine Hose Disaster
April 29, 2015 By Kellie Pearson When it comes to disastrous water damage in your home, burst washing machine hoses have to be the worst. It’s also generally known as one of the most common complaints insurance companies receive when dealing with flood claims. How can you prevent a burst washing machine hose from happening to you? Know how to spot signs of trouble by looking at the 90-degree turns either coming ...Continue Reading -
5 Money Saving Tips
April 29, 2015 It seems everywhere you turn these days, someone is offering up the latest and greatest money saving tips. Have you noticed it’s usually the same tips over and over? They’re recycled and bedazzled, but nonetheless, they’re the same. The most common tips are adjust your home thermostat, stop eating out (including trips to the local coffee house), and pay off your credit card balance each month. ...Continue Reading -
World Health Day: 10 Tips for Healthy Living
April 29, 2015 April 7 is globally recognized as World Health Day . The World Health Organization created this day to mark the anniversary of their founding in 1948, as well as to help draw attention to the importance of global health. While reflecting on this year’s initiative to combat vector-borne diseases, also remember to focus on the health of you and your family. Spring into health this season by ...Continue Reading -
6 Ways to Feng Shui Your Home
April 29, 2015 Many environmental scientists and architects incorporate the basic idea of Feng Shui into their designs on the premise that clutter in our homes hinders our sense of well-being. Surrounding yourself with objects and architecture that uplift your mood and ensuring items are in proper places and not in chaos can give you a better state of mind. To put it simply, as the old saying goes, a clean house ...Continue Reading -
Dryer Vent Cleaning Tips
April 24, 2015 Did you know dirty dryer vents cause 15,000 home fires a year? That adds up to a collective $201 million in damages! According to recent studies, nearly 92 percent of all laundry room fires can be traced back to either a dirty dryer or a dirty dryer vent system. Either way, it’s kindling simply waiting for a spark. And that’s all it takes – just one small spark can ignite lint buildup. Once ...Continue Reading -
12 Common Kitchen Injuries
April 23, 2015 It’s a great day at Mr. Appliance®, unless a spill on the floor or an oven-rack burns occurs. In a matter of minutes your heart of the home can turn into the most dangerous room in the house. Stay safe this spring with 12 common kitchen injuries from NursingSchools.net . Pepper burns: Hot peppers can burn your skin, and anything else you touch, including your eyes. Be sure to wear gloves. Clean up ...Continue Reading -
S'mores: A Favorite Fireplace Snack
April 13, 2015 Baby, it’s cold outside… Even if it’s cold and gloomy outside, you just can’t beat the warm fuzzies from a crackling fire in the fireplace. But what can make the enchanting moment even better? A fireplace snack! And there’s no snack that can beat a good ol’ fireplace s’more. The ooeyness, the gooeyness, the messiness and the yumminess make a fireplace s’more the best winter snack – ever! S’mores ...Continue Reading -
5 Tips to Simplify Your Life
February 26, 2015 With the hustle and bustle of each day, our schedules seem to get crazier by the minute. Do this, be there, meet them, pick up that… It seems like we’re on a perpetual merry-go-round that goes faster and faster the more we try to slow it down. When did life get so busy and complicated? And just as we appear to have it all together, the side effects of this overloaded lifestyle creep in: headaches, ...Continue Reading -
Child Safety in The Kitchen
February 26, 2015 The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. It’s a place where memories and masterpieces are created and cherished. From the recreation of Aunt B’s apple pie that turned out beautifully or the hot mess that should have been Grandma’s creamy mashed potatoes but turned out to be a yellow glob with a near-rubber consistency, the kitchen is where memories are made. Whether you’re ...Continue Reading