April 1. Cornelius resident Tommy Walker had more than 50 years experience in appliance repair and operated Tommy’s Appliance Service until retiring a few years ago.  Tommy offers his advice for various appliances.

Over my career, I can recall some service calls that, for various reasons, were avoidable.

It may take a little extra time to check pockets and shorts and jeans for coins, etc., but doing so will keep objects from entering drain pump.

You don’t want these objects going through the washer or dryer because coins  can get trapped in tumbler or on the drum as it rotates, or collected in the bottom.

The same thing goes for dishes. Before scraping your dishes into the disposal, make sure it’s only food. I have removed from blades and disposals every of variety of object — bread twist ties, pieces of cookware   and pan screws and bolts.

You also don’t want any foreign objects inside the dishwasher either. These objects can get forced down into the pump, causing drain problems and washability problems.

I rarely use my microwave oven, but when I do, I make sure it’s safe microwave cookware.

Also, when cleaning any electronic control or controls, be sure to spray the cloth and not the control, dry things off quickly.

Despite the pollen, I’m happy for warm weather.

Thanks, Tommy.