If you decide to rent out furnished units, it usually includes electronic appliances. This means that during repair and maintenance inspections after a tenant moves out, you would check not only the physical structure of your unit but also if there’s deterioration in the appliances included in the rental space.

These appliances must be checked for damage because it’s part of what is paid for by your tenant and a broken appliance is also a fire hazard. You want to make sure that by the time a new occupant moves in, everything is working perfectly.

Here are appliances that are usually included in rented housings and how you can check them for damage.

Refrigerator

Refrigerators are essential to every tenant. If a refrigerator breaks down and is left unnoticed, the contents might get spoiled which could waste your tenant’s money.

Usually, if the sound coming from the fridge when turned on is different from the usual, it might be a sign of a major problem that needs to be addressed by an electrician.

If there are no unusual noises, you can continue by checking the gasket seal for any tear. Try opening and closing the refrigerator door. You should feel a slight magnetic pull before it is completely closed. It also must be attached to the inner frame of the door. You can also run your fingers around the door when closed to see if there’s cold air coming out.

To check if the temperature system is working well, put a thermometer inside. Turn on the fridge for 12 hours in mid-range coolness. The temperature inside should reach 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If it doesn’t, turn up the control to cold and let cool for another 12 hours. If it still doesn’t reach the desired temperature, you have to get the refrigerant checked.

Another indication of a damaged refrigerant is if you find water on the floor where the refrigerator is standing or in the inside compartment.

Washing machine

Do a load of wash then check if it drains properly afterward. Listen to the sounds coming from the washing machine because you might hear a loose belt or a busted motor.

If some controls don’t work while you wash one load or if there’s excessive shaking, it might need to be repaired by a professional.

Also checked for blockage in the outlet hose.

Dryer

A broker dryer is a major fire hazard because it can overheat. The first thing you need to do is check if the lint trap and vent are clean.

Next, load the clothes you washed in the washing machine, set the dial to manual, and dry the clothes for 60 minutes. Using a separate timer, check if the machine does indeed stop after 60 minutes to know if the dryer’s timer is working perfectly.

Once done, remove the clothes to check if they were successfully dried. If they’re not, the vent might need more cleaning, or the burner or heating element of the machine is busted and needs to be professionally repaired.

Water heater

Two common problems for water heaters is water not heating up or there’s a presence of rust.

Checking for the two is pretty simple. The heating can be easily checked by running your fingers through the water to see if it is hot enough. For signs of rusting, if the water is not clear (yellowish or brownish), then that might be the issue.

Kitchen stove

Kitchen stoves are the easiest appliances to check. Switch it on and make sure that the flames intensify as you turn the dial higher.

To be extra sure, heat water in a pan at around 400 degrees. Place a thermometer and check if it reaches the expected temperature.

If you are checking appliances and discover major issues, it’s best to hire professionals to fix it for your safety. After clearing the appliances of problems and ensuring that your rental unit is in perfect condition, it is ready for new occupants.

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