Large-appliance maintenance is easier than you'd think.

At their best, large appliances — dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines — fade into the background as they perform essential daily tasks. When they break, however, their repair can quickly come to dominate your life. Good thing some basic maintenance can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

   With any major appliance, the key is keeping it clean. Those coils on the bottom and back of the fridge, when coated in grime, retard the machine's ability to get rid of heat. Sweep or vacuum around it to keep dust away.

   Make sure the plastic coating on dishwasher racks hasn't chipped away; if it has, the metal beneath could rust, damaging the rack and leaving rust on plates. If you find rust, sand the area down before applying a new layer of material or sealant. Also, mineral deposits can build up in your dishwasher's sprayer; soaking it for a few hours in white vinegar will loosen these deposits and allow the mechanism to be cleaned.

    Also, make sure your appliances' seals and gaskets — the ones that keep fridge and dishwasher doors shut tightly — aren't hardened or twisted. Replace them if they're worn. Test your fridge's seal by waving your hand slowly around the edges to see if a cool breeze is escaping.

    Check to see if the hoses connected to your washing machine are in good condition, and replace if necessary (be sure to turn the water off beforehand). Experts recommend using steel-mesh hoses, which will last longer than regular ones.

    In the end, the major appliances in your house will work smoother and longer with a little maintenance, saving you precious time — just as they were designed to do in the first place.