Easy Laundry Routine: Tips for Sorting, Prepping & Washing

April 2, 2024|Cleaning tips

How do you tackle laundry day? Do you take a relaxed, haphazard approach, tossing clothes in the washer when your laundry basket is overflowing or do you tackle it with military-style precision, sorting, prepping, and washing like a pro? Regardless of your approach, mastering the art of laundry is essential for maintaining clean clothes and a clutter-free home. We share an easy laundry routine with tips for sorting, prepping and washing to make your laundry day a breeze!

Step 1: Sorting your laundry

The first step to a successful laundry routine is sorting. Sorting your laundry not only helps to preserve the quality of your clothes but also ensures the best cleaning results and streamlines the washing process.

Separate by colour: Divide your clothes into whites, lights and darks to prevent colours from bleeding onto each other.

Sort by fabric type: Delicate fabrics like silk and wool should be washed separately from heavier fabrics like denim or towels to avoid damage during the washing process.

Check care labels: Pay attention to the care instructions on your clothing tags to determine the appropriate wash cycle and water temperature.

Tackling a supersized laundry pile

If you are dealing with a family size laundry pile, you can sort your clothes into groups first:

Everyday laundry – cotton and durable synthetics like T-Shirts, underwear and socks

Sheets, towels and bedding
Activewear & swimwear
Denim
Delicate fabrics
Items that are heavily soiled

Be sure to separate each group by colour – white, lights and darks.

Laundry sorting tips and tricks

To streamline the sorting process, invest in multiple laundry baskets or bins designated for different loads. You can even buy hampers with built in dividers. Label each basket accordingly (e.g., lights, darks, delicates) to make sorting more efficient and organised.
Keep stain removal pre-treatments by the clothes baskets so items can be treated ahead of time.
Turn dark coloured garments inside out before washing. This reduces friction when washing and helps to reduce fading when drying in the sun.
For small or delicate items like socks, lingerie, or baby clothes, consider using mesh laundry bags to keep them contained and protected during the wash cycle.

Step 2: Prepping your laundry

Check for stains: Before loading clothes into the washing machine, inspect them for any stains and treat them with a stain remover.

Empty pockets: Before washing, be sure to check pockets for any loose items like coins, keys or tissues that could damage your clothes or washing machine.

Close zippers and fasten buttons: Zip up zippers and fasten buttons to prevent snagging and damage to other garments in the load.

Unroll sleeves and pant legs: Ensure sleeves and pant legs are unrolled to allow for thorough cleaning and prevent wrinkles.

Step 3: Washing your laundry

Now that your laundry is sorted and prepped, it's time to tackle the washing process

Select your laundry detergent: Choose a detergent suitable for your laundry needs. Use laundry powder for heavily soiled or stained clothes, as it is more effective at removing tough stains and odours. Use laundry liquid for delicate fabrics or clothes that require a gentle cycle, as it is less likely to damage these types of fabrics.

Load size: Use the recommended amount of detergent for the size of your load. Overloading the machine can cause the detergent to be less effective and can lead to other problems like excess suds.

Use the right amount of laundry detergent: Too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes, while too little may result in insufficient cleaning. Follow the recommended dosage on the detergent packaging and adjust based on load size and soil level.

Choose the right water temperature: Different fabrics require different water temperatures for the best cleaning results. Use cold water for delicate items and hot water for heavily soiled garments, while warm water is suitable for most everyday laundry.

Choose the correct cycle: Select the appropriate wash cycle based on the fabric type and soil level of your laundry. Most washing machines offer a variety of cycles, including normal, gentle and heavy-duty. Use the short wash cycle for items that need a light freshening up. It will get the job done and save on water and energy use.

Handy hint!

Managing multiple loads of laundry can be quite time-consuming. To make laundry day more manageable, consider breaking it down into specific tasks. Designate separate days for washing different types of items, such as sheets and towels on one day, kids' clothes on another, and everyday laundry on yet another day. This approach prevents the laundry workload from becoming overwhelming and allows you to focus on each category more efficiently.

Washing machine maintenance tips

To keep your washing machine running smoothly and efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Here are some maintenance and repair tips to extend the lifespan of your machine:

Clean your washing machine regularly

Sanitise and deep clean your washer: For top load washing machine, set your machine at its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled up with water, add 2 cups vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle. For front load washing machine, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and ½ cup white vinegar into the drum. Let it run for a complete cycle on the hottest setting.
Clean the detergent and softener dispenser trays: Trays need to be regularly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and grime. Simply remove and clean with warm soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to clean any hard-to-reach corners.
Clean the outside of the machine: Using a soft, damp cleaning cloth, wipe the exterior with an all-purpose cleaner. We recommend Aktivo All Purpose cleaner – an eco-friendly cleaner that is tough, with a gentle and non-toxic formula.
Wipe down the drum, door and gasket: Give the seals a thorough clean with a toothbrush or soft bristled sponge. Water, dirt, and grime can get trapped in the seal’s folds, leaving a musty smell or cause mould or mildew to grow. Check the seals for any damage, splits or cracks.

Descale your washing machine

From time-to-time limescale can start to build up, particularly if you have hard water. Limescale can reduce the efficiency of your washing machine. To descale your machine use Aktivo Dishwasher + Washing Machine Descaler – just add to your machine as per the instructions. This will help remove unwanted odours and thoroughly cleanse your washing machine.

Don't forget your lint filter

If your washer has a removable lint filter/trap, you can give this a good clean. For front loaders, locate the small access door at the front. Place a towel underneath. Turn the filter counter-clockwise to remove it. Let water drain into a bowl. Rinse the filter under hot water and use a brush to remove particles. Reinstall and lock the filter before closing the door. For top loaders, consult your manual to find the lint trap. It's usually along the top rim or inside the agitator. Remove, clean with hot soapy water, scrub with a brush, then reinstall.

Inspect your washer

Inspect hoses and connections: Check hoses and connections for any signs of leaks, cracks, or damage. Replace worn hoses or connections to prevent water damage to your home and prolong the life of your machine.
Check for leveling: Make sure your washing machine is level and stable. If it wobbles or shakes during operation, adjust the feet to ensure it sits flat on the ground.

If you notice any unusual noises, leaks, or malfunctions, address them promptly to prevent further damage. Consult the manufacturer's manual or seek assistance from a qualified service technician if needed.

Tackling laundry day doesn't have to be a difficult or daunting task. By sorting, prepping, and washing your laundry with care, you can ensure clean and fresh clothes every time. Additionally, regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your washing machine running smoothly for years to come.

All the latest on the Statewide blog

Visit our blog for all the latest on washer & dryer repairs and care. We show you how to effectively descale your washing machine and share the best tips to get rid of washing machine smells.

Check out our YouTube channel

Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze!

Need spare parts for your washing machine?

Find replacement spare parts for your washing machine at Statewide Appliance Spares. All the big brands with the lowest prices guaranteed.

Warning signs your fridge is failing (and what to do)

March 23, 2026|Fridges & Freezers

Warning signs your fridge is failing (and what to do) Out of all your kitchen appliances, your fridge is the one appliance you absolutely can't live without! It runs 24/7, keeping your food fresh and your family fed. A bit of condensation or the odd funny noise? Probably nothing to worry about. But some warning signs mean your fridge is on its way out—and ignoring them could cost you hundreds in spoiled food or a complete breakdown. Here are the critical red flags that your fridge is failing, and what you should do about it. 1. Food is spoiling faster than normal Warning sign: You may start to notice your milk goes off well before the use by date, fruit and veg aren’t staying crisp or fresh and leftovers aren’t lasting as long as they should. Why it matters: Your fridge isn't maintaining the right temperature, which means it's not doing its job. This wastes money on spoiled food and can pose health risks. What to do: First look at the temperature setting—the Australian Standard for fridges uses a fresh food compartment average temperature of 3°C. Your freezer should be set close to -18°C. If it's too warm, the thermostat might be faulty, the door seal could be damaged, or the compressor could be failing. Parts you might need: fridge thermostat, fridge compressor, fridge seal DIY or call a pro? Adjusting temperature settings and swapping out a fridge door seal are easy. Thermostat or compressor issues may need a professional. Check out our guide: How to easily replace your fridge door seal. 2. Fridge running constantly or never turning off Warning sign: You notice the motor running all the time, or the fridge never seems to cycle off. Why it matters: This means your fridge is working overtime to maintain temperature. This can put a strain on your compressor and hike up your energy bill. What to do: Inspect the door seals first—worn seals let cold air escape, forcing the fridge to run constantly. Clean the condenser coils (usually at the back or underneath) as dust buildup makes the fridge work harder. If neither fixes it, the thermostat or compressor may be the problem. Parts you might need: fridge thermostat, fridge seal DIY or call a pro? Door seals and cleaning coils can be easily tackled. Compressor issues may need a professional. 3. Excessive frost or ice buildup Warning sign: Ice is building up inside the freezer (beyond normal frost), or you're seeing frost on the back wall of the fridge compartment. Why it matters: This usually means the defrost system isn't working properly, or the door seal is letting warm air in. It makes your fridge work harder and eats up valuable freezer space. What to do: Start by checking the door seal for gaps or damage. If the seal is fine, the defrost heater, defrost timer, or defrost thermostat might be faulty. Parts you might need: fridge door seals, fridge defrost heaters, fridge defrost timers DIY or call a pro? Door seals can be easily replaced. Defrost system components are trickier—best left to a professional unless you're experienced. 4. Unusual or loud noises Warning sign: Your usually quiet fridge is now making unusual sounds – loud humming, buzzing, clicking, or rattling. Why it matters: Different noises point to different problems. Loud humming often means the compressor is struggling. Clicking can indicate a failing start relay. Rattling might just be loose components, but it could also signal a failing fan. What to do: Identify where the noise is coming from. Check if anything is vibrating against the fridge or if items inside are rattling. If the noise is coming from the back, it could be the condenser fan or compressor. Clean the condenser coils and check the fan for obstructions. Parts you might need: fridge condenser fans, fridge evaporator, fridge compressor DIY or call a pro? Cleaning and checking for obstructions is DIY. Fan or compressor replacement needs a technician. 5. Condensation or moisture forming between door seal Warning sign: You notice condensation on the outside of your fridge, or moisture forming between the door seal. Why it matters: This usually means the door seal isn't sealing properly, allowing warm air in. It can also indicate humidity control problems or a failing door heater (in frost-free models). What to do: Inspect the door seal carefully—look for cracks, tears, or areas where it's not sitting flush. Clean the seal with warm soapy water. If it's damaged, replace it. Parts you might need: fridge seal DIY or call a pro? Door seal replacement is straightforward DIY. 6. Motor feels excessively hot Warning sign: The back of your fridge (where the compressor is located) feels much hotter than usual. Why it matters: Some warmth is normal, but excessive heat means the compressor is working too hard or overheating. What to do: Make sure there's proper ventilation around the fridge. Clean the condenser coils thoroughly. If it's still overheating, the compressor may be on its way out. Parts you might need: fridge compressor DIY or call a pro? Cleaning coils is DIY. Compressor replacement requires a licensed technician as it involves refrigerant handling. 7. Fridge light has stopped working Warning sign: The light inside your fridge doesn't turn on when you open the door. Why it matters: While not critical, a broken fridge light makes it hard to see what you're grabbing—especially during those midnight snack raids. What to do: First, try replacing the light globe—it's usually just screwed in or clipped in place. If the new globe doesn't work, check if the door switch is faulty (the little button the door presses when closed). If neither fixes it, there could be a wiring issue. Parts you might need: fridge globes, fridge switch DIY or call a pro? Replacing the globe is super easy. Door switches are usually straightforward too. If it's a wiring problem, call a technician. Check out our guide: How to easily replace a refrigerator light globe DIY repairs you can tackle Door seal replacement Cleaning condenser coils Clearing defrost drains Replacing water filters Light globe replacement Temperature adjustments When to call in the experts Compressor issues Refrigerant leaks Defrost system repairs (heaters, timers) Electrical faults Thermostat replacement Fan motor replacement Should you repair or replace? Time to replace when: Your fridge is 15+ years old AND repairs cost more than 50% of a new model Multiple major components are failing Your energy bills have crept up significantly You've had several repairs in the past year Repair makes sense when: It's less than 15 years old Only one component needs replacing The repair costs under $400-500 Simple fixes like seals, fans, or thermostats Safety first! Unplug the fridge or turn off power at the circuit breaker Give yourself plenty of working space Have towels ready for any water leaks Take photos before disconnecting anything Don't attempt refrigerant-related repairs—they require licensing Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your fridge repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog for all the latest on fridge repairs and maintenance. We share guides to help you easily remove and replace your fridge door, how to deep clean your refrigerator and everything you need to know about fridge water filters. Need fridge parts fast? Find genuine fridge and freezer replacement parts from all the big brands — Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Hisense, LG, Samsung, Westinghouse, and more. With Australia's biggest range and fast delivery, we'll help you get your fridge running again in no time. Not sure what part you need? Our expert team is here to help! Call us on Free call 1800 005 220 or chat to us online.

Warning signs your oven is failing (and what to do)

March 2, 2026|Ovens & Cooktops

Your oven is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen—roasting, baking, grilling, and getting you through everything from Tuesday night pasta to Christmas lunch. Some issues are minor annoyances. Others are serious warning signs your oven is failing. Here’s what to watch out for. 1. Gas smell or burning odour Warning sign A persistent burning smell while cooking or a gas smell when you turn on your oven. Why it matters A gas smell may indicate a leak, which is a serious safety issue. A burning smell can suggest electrical problems or damaged insulation—both potential fire hazards. What to do If you smell gas: turn off the oven immediately, open windows, avoid using electrical switches, and call your gas provider or a licensed gas fitter straight away. If you smell burning: switch the oven off and don’t use it until it’s been checked by a professional. Don’t ignore it Gas leaks and electrical fires are serious. Get expert help immediately. 2. Uneven or inconsistent cooking Warning sign Your oven used to cook evenly, but now one side burns while the other stays raw, or baking times are inconsistent. Why it matters This often points to a failing heating element, a faulty thermostat, or (in fan-forced ovens) a fan that isn’t working correctly. What to do Check whether both heating elements glow evenly when the oven is on. If an element looks dim or doesn’t glow, it may need replacing. Use an oven thermometer to test whether the actual temperature matches the setting. Parts you might need: Oven heating elements, Oven thermostat, Oven fan DIY or call a pro? Heating element replacement is often a straightforward DIY repair. Thermostat and fan motor issues are best handled by a technician. 3. Oven won’t heat up Warning sign Your oven takes ages to reach temperature, or won’t heat up at all. Why it matters This usually means a heating element has failed, or there’s an issue with the thermostat, temperature sensor, or control board. What to do Turn the oven on and check whether the heating elements glow bright orange. If they don’t glow, the element may have failed. Once the oven is completely cool, inspect the element for blisters, cracks, splits, or small holes—these are clear signs it needs replacing. If the element glows normally but the oven still won’t heat correctly or maintain temperature, the thermostat or temperature sensor may be the issue. Parts you might need: Oven heating elements, Oven thermostat, Gas oven igniters DIY or call a pro? Heating elements are often a DIY job, but always switch power off at the switchboard before starting any work. If unsure, call a qualified electrician. 4. Door won’t close tightly Warning sign The oven door won’t close completely, feels loose, or you can feel heat escaping around the edges. Why it matters A faulty door seal allows heat to escape, which can cause uneven cooking and higher power bills. What to do Inspect the door seal (gasket) for cracks, tears, or flattening. Check hinges for looseness or bending. Replace worn seals or damaged hinges. Parts you might need: Oven door seals, Oven door hinges DIY or call a pro? This is usually an easy DIY fix. Check out our guide: How to replace your oven door seal in 4 easy steps 5. Oven door glass is cracked or shattered Warning sign The glass in your oven door has cracked or shattered. Why it matters Cracked glass is a safety hazard and can shatter during use. What to do Stop using the oven immediately if the glass is cracked or broken. Replace the oven door glass as soon as possible. Parts you might need: Oven doors and glass DIY or call a pro? Confident DIYers can tackle this, but it can be fiddly. 6. Error codes or control panel malfunctions Warning sign Your oven displays error codes, the control panel buttons don’t respond, or the display is blank or flickering. Why it matters This typically indicates an electrical fault or a failing control board (PCB). What to do Check your oven manual to identify what the error code means. Try resetting the oven at the circuit breaker. If the issue persists, the control board may need replacing. Parts you might need: Oven PCBs DIY or call a pro? Control boards involve electrical work—best handled by a professional. 7. Oven light won’t turn on Warning sign The oven light doesn’t turn on when you open the door or switch the oven on. Why it matters It’s not usually a major safety issue, but it makes it harder to check cooking progress without opening the door and losing heat. What to do Replace the globe first. If that doesn’t fix it, the light socket or wiring may be faulty. Parts you might need: Oven globes DIY or call a pro? Replacing the globe is easy. If the socket or wiring is faulty, you may need a technician. Check out our guide: How to change an oven globe 8. Loud or unusual noises Warning sign Your oven is making loud humming, rattling, grinding, or clicking noises that weren’t there before. Why it matters Unusual noises often mean the fan motor is failing (fan-forced ovens) or there’s a loose component. What to do Try to identify if the noise is coming from the fan area. Check for loose panels or screws (only when oven is off and cool). If the noise persists, the fan motor or blade may need replacing. Parts you might need: Oven fan, Oven motor DIY or call a pro? Experienced DIYers may handle this. If in doubt, call a professional. DIY repairs you can tackle Oven globe replacement Door seal replacement Heating element replacement (if confident) Cleaning and minor maintenance When to call in the experts Anything involving gas connections or gas smells Electrical faults (sparking, smoking, control board issues) Thermostat replacement Fan motor replacement Self-cleaning mechanism repairs Should you repair or replace? Time to replace when Your oven is 15+ years old and repairs cost more than half the price of a new oven. Multiple major parts are failing at once. The oven cavity or structure is damaged. You’ve had several expensive repairs recently. Repair makes sense when It’s under 15 years old and replacement parts are still available. Only one component needs replacing. The repair costs under $400–$500. Safety first Switch off the oven at the power point and at the switchboard. For gas ovens, turn off the gas supply. Let the oven cool completely before touching anything. Place towels or newspaper down to protect your floor. Take photos before disconnecting anything. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with home appliance repairs and maintenance? Visit our YouTube channel for simple, expert tips. All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog for the latest on oven repairs and maintenance. Explore our essential guide to oven parts and oven fixes for common oven problems. Need oven parts fast? We stock genuine parts for all major oven brands— Bosch, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Miele, Smeg, Westinghouse, and more. Not sure what part you need? Call our expert local team on 1800 005 220 or chat to us online. We love to help!

Warning signs your dishwasher is failing (and what to do)

February 15, 2026|Dishwashers

Let's be honest—your dishwasher is probably one of the hardest working appliances in your home. A few water spots or the occasional weird noise? Sure, that's annoying but not exactly panic-worthy. But some warning signs deserve your immediate attention. We're talking potential water damage, safety issues, or a complete breakdown that leaves you hand-washing dishes for weeks. Here are the warning signs that mean your dishwasher is failing, and what you can do about it. Looking for a specific part? Browse our full range of dishwasher spare parts. Safety first! Before you start any repair work: Turn off power at the circuit breaker Turn off the water supply Place towels down to catch leaks Have a bucket ready for residual water Take photos before disconnecting anything 1. Burning smell or hot exterior Warning sign: There's a burning smell when you run a load, or the outside of your dishwasher is unusually hot. Why it matters: This usually means something’s wrong with the electrical system or the motor is overheating, which is a potential fire hazard. What to do: Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker immediately. Don't use it until a professional has inspected your appliance. Don’t ignore it: Potential fire hazards should always be investigated. Call in the experts. 2. Water under or around unit Warning sign: You keep finding puddles on the floor near your dishwasher, or notice damp cabinets close by. Why it matters: Leaks can quietly destroy your floors and cabinets—and repairs can be expensive. What to do: Check the door seal for cracks or damage and inspect drain hoses for leaks. If the seal is worn, replace it immediately. If hoses are damaged or connections are loose, tighten or replace them. Parts you might need: dishwasher seals, dishwasher hoses DIY or call a pro? Seals and hoses are pretty straightforward to replace yourself. But if you can't work out where the leak's coming from, it's time to call a professional to have a look. Check out our guide: How to easily replace your dishwasher door seal 3. Circuit breaker trips repeatedly Warning sign: Your dishwasher keeps tripping the circuit breaker, usually at the start of a cycle. Why it matters: This usually means there’s a short circuit or faulty wiring. What to do: Stop using the dishwasher immediately and get an electrician to diagnose the problem. Don’t ignore it: Repeated electrical faults can damage your home's electrical system and create fire risks. 4. Door won't latch or seal properly Warning sign: The door won't close properly, pops open mid-cycle, or you can see daylight around the edges when it's "closed." Why it matters: Without a proper seal, water will leak during cycles, and the dishwasher won't heat properly or clean effectively. The door latch mechanism may also be at risk of complete failure. What to do: Check if the latch or seal looks damaged. If it does, stop using the machine until it’s fixed. Parts you might need: dishwasher seals, dishwasher latches DIY or call a pro? This is usually an easy DIY fix. 5. Visible rust, corrosion or brown water Warning sign: Rust spots inside the tub, brownish water after a cycle, or your racks are looking pretty corroded. Why it matters: Rust means the inside of your dishwasher is starting to break down. It can make your dishes dirty and usually means the machine is on its last legs. What to do: If rust is extensive or you see rusty water, it's time to consider replacement. For minor rust on racks or baskets, replace them. Parts you might need: dishwasher baskets and racks When to replace: If the tub itself is rusting, you're better off buying new than repairing. 6. Strange noises - grinding, screeching or buzzing Warning sign: You hear new, loud grinding, screeching, or buzzing noises. Why it matters: These sounds usually mean something inside—like the bearings, motor or pump—is wearing out. What to do: Stop the cycle and check if anything is blocking the spray arms. If the noise continues after clearing debris, the motor or pump may be failing. Parts you might need: dishwasher spray arms, dishwasher motor, dishwasher pump DIY or call a pro? Spray arms can easily be replaced. Motors and pumps need either an experienced DIYer or a service tech. 7. Dishwasher not drying properly (dishes hot but soaking wet) Warning sign: When the cycle ends, your dishes are piping hot—but still soaking wet. Why it matters: This usually means the heating element or thermostat isn’t working right—so your dishwasher can’t dry the dishes. Over time, the problem will continue to get worse. What to do: Make sure you’re using rinse aid and that it’s topped up. Still wet? It might be time to replace the heating element. Parts you might need: dishwasher heating element DIY or call a pro? Confident DIYers can do this, otherwise call a service tech. 8. Energy bill has jumped Warning sign: Your electricity or water bills have jumped for no obvious reason. Why it matters: Worn parts make your dishwasher work harder and run longer, costing you more. What to do: Clean or replace the filter, and check the spray arms and heating element for buildup. Parts you might need: dishwasher filter, dishwasher spray arms, dishwasher heating element Cost reality: Even a small fix—like a $50 part—can save you on monthly energy bills and pay for itself quickly. Not sure how to clean your dishwasher filter? Read our guide on how to clean and maintain your dishwasher for better performance. DIY vs professional DIY repairs you can tackle: Door seal replacement Drain hose repairs Filter cleaning and replacement Spray arm cleaning and replacement Rack replacement Call in the experts: Anything electrical (burning smells, tripping breakers, sparking) Motor or pump replacement Water inlet valve replacement Control board problems Mystery leaks you can't locate Should you repair or replace? Time to replace when: Your dishwasher is 15+ years old AND repairs cost more than half the price of a new one The tub is seriously rusted Multiple major parts are failing at once You've had several repairs recently Repair makes sense when: It's less than 15 years old Only one part needs replacing It's a quality brand The repair is under $300–$400 Related guides Tackling hard water problems with dishwasher softener salt How to effectively descale your dishwasher Why is my dishwasher not drying properly How to clean your dishwasher and eliminate bad smells How to easily replace your dishwasher door seal Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Need dishwasher parts fast? We stock genuine parts for all major dishwasher brands—Bosch, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Samsung, LG, Miele, and more. With Australia’s biggest range and fast delivery, we’ll help you get your dishwasher running again in no time. Not sure what part you need? Our expert team is here to help. Call us on Free call 1800 005 220 or chat to us online.

Guide to common oven symbols, settings and functions

February 8, 2026|Ovens & Cooktops

Ovens offer a variety of settings and functions to get the best cooking and baking results. Different brands may use slight variations, however many oven symbols are universal and designed to help you identify the different functions of your oven. If you tend to gravitate toward the functions you are most familiar and comfortable with, you are not alone! We take the guesswork out of deciphering those little pictures on your oven with our guide to common oven symbols, settings and functions. Oven symbols at a glance Conventional oven Lower heating element Upper heating element Fan forced Fan forced grill Grill Partial grill Defrost Plate warming Warmer Oven light Child lock Alarm Self cleaning / pyrolytic FAQs Common mistakes Find spare parts Conventional oven symbol: what it means and when to use it The symbol for conventional heating is two lines – one at the top and one at the bottom. This means that both the top and bottom heating elements will radiate heat. The bottom heating element provides the primary source of heat, while the upper element delivers intense top-down heat to brown and grill your food. Ideal for: Roasting meat and vegetables or single shelf cooking. Lower heating element The lower heating element oven symbol is represented by a single line at the bottom. This indicates that the lower heating element is in use. Ideal for: Slow cooking, casserole baking or for food that requires a crispy base such as pizza or a pastry case. Upper heating element The upper heating element symbol is represented by a single line at the top. This indicates that the upper heating element is in use. Ideal for: Baking pies with a pie crust. Fan forced Fan forced symbols feature a fan inside a circle. A fan forced oven has a heating element around the fan to circulate and distribute heat evenly. This allows for a faster cooking time, even temperature and a decrease in energy consumption. This will likely be your most used setting. Ideal for: Batch cooking, cakes, cookies. Fan forced grill This symbol features a fan with a zig zag line above it. When this is switched on, the grill and fan will operate at the same time. The fan’s function is to spread the grill’s heat. Unlike the standalone grill, your oven door should be closed when using this function. Ideal for: Cooking through thicker meats or fish. Grill The grill icon features a zig zag line on the top. It is also sometimes represented with a double zig zag line. This grill setting uses the entire grill of the oven. Ideal for: Vegetables, crisping and browning food. Partial grill Some ovens offer a partial grill setting, represented by a smaller zig zag line. This indicates that only part of the grill is in use. You will need to place your food in the right spot (usually in the centre of your oven). Ideal for: Grilling smaller portions/amounts. Defrost The defrost function can reduce your defrosting time. The oven does not use heat on this function, instead it circulates room temperature air (30°C) around the food to give it an even and fast defrosting result. Ideal for: Defrosting food when you are in a hurry. Plate warming The plate warming symbol shows three lines stacked on top of each other. This keeps your dinner plates safely warm. Ideal for: Keeping your dinner guests happy. Warmer Often depicted as a dish with rising steam, this function keeps your food warm, without cooking it. Ideal for: Warming food or plates so they do not cool too quickly. Oven light Your oven cooks with the light on so you can view your cooking progress. Also handy when cleaning your oven so you can take a better look. Child lock A small key symbol indicates that the child lock feature is activated. Ideal for: Keeping children safe when the appliance is on or when the self-clean function is in operation. Alarm The alarm symbol will enable you to manually set your alarm. Ideal for: Setting a reminder to check your cooking when your oven is in use. Self cleaning or Pyrolytic cleaning oven symbols The self cleaning function shows a series of black dots or diamonds decreasing size from top to bottom. It can also be represented by the letter P. High temperature pyrolytic cleaning heats your oven to approx. 500°C. The intense heat will incinerate any built up grime and then the remaining ash can be wiped away. Oven symbols and settings – Frequently asked questions What do oven symbols mean?Oven symbols represent different heating functions, such as conventional heat, fan forced cooking, grilling, or bottom heat. Each symbol activates specific heating elements to suit different types of cooking. Is fan forced the same as convection?Yes. Fan forced ovens use a fan to circulate hot air evenly, similar to convection ovens, allowing food to cook more evenly and often at lower temperatures. Which oven setting is best for baking?Conventional heat or fan forced settings are commonly used for baking. The best option depends on the recipe and whether you’re cooking on one shelf or multiple shelves. Why does my oven have symbols I never use?Some symbols are designed for specific tasks like grilling, defrosting, or pizza cooking. Understanding these settings can improve cooking results and energy efficiency. Now that you are familiar with your oven symbols and functions, why not get familiar with the different parts of your oven and how they operate? Check out our essential guide to oven parts. Common oven symbol mistakes to avoid Using grill instead of fan forced for baking Leaving the oven door open when using fan forced grill Using self-clean too frequently, which can damage seals Understanding your oven settings can help you cook more efficiently, avoid unnecessary wear, and keep your appliance running longer — saving money and reducing waste. Find all your oven spare parts at Statewide Shop for oven & cooktop spares at Statewide Appliance Spares. Our most popular oven and cooktop spare parts are always in stock, including oven elements, racks, hinges, seals, thermostats, knobs and more. We have everything you could possibly need at competitive prices, with fast Australia wide delivery. Need help with home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube channel. We share all the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Last updated: February 2026 Tags: oven, oven controls,

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