As temperatures rise and summer routines kick in, our home appliances can find themselves under extra pressure. From keeping food cold during heatwaves to powering through sweaty laundry, appliances work harder than ever in the summer months — and unfortunately, that’s when breakdowns are most likely to strike.

At BIG Warranties, we help protect thousands of UK homes from the stress and cost of appliance failures. Whether you're covering a single essential item or your whole kitchen, our affordable appliance insurance options — including multi-appliance cover — give you peace of mind when you need it most.

Here are some of the most common summer appliance breakdowns to look out for and how to stay one step ahead of them.

1. Fridge freezers under pressure

Fridge freezers are essential in the summer — but they’re also more prone to breakdowns. With higher ambient temperatures and frequent door openings, the compressor and cooling systems can become overworked, leading to inconsistent temperatures or total failure.

Tip: Keep the fridge well-stocked (but not overcrowded), clean the coils regularly, and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or hot areas like garages.

2. Washing machines working overtime

Hotter weather means more outfit changes, beach towels, and sports kits — putting added strain on your washing machine. Overuse can lead to issues like worn bearings, drainage problems, or electrical faults.

Tip: Avoid overloading the drum and run a maintenance cycle every few weeks to keep the machine in top condition.

3. Tumble dryers overheating

While you might hang clothes outside more in summer, many homes still rely on tumble dryers — especially in humid or rainy weather. Clogged vents or filters in the heat can lead to overheating and breakdowns.

Tip: Always clean the lint filter after every use and ensure the ventilation system is clear to avoid overheating risks.

4. Dishwashers getting blocked

With barbecues, garden parties, and kids at home during the holidays, dishwashers often get more use during summer. This can result in more wear and tear, clogged filters, or pump issues.

Tip: Regularly clean the filter and spray arms, and avoid rinsing plates with greasy or oily residues, which can build up over time.

5. Ovens and hobs taking a backseat

Even if you’re cooking less indoors in summer, your oven and hob still get used — especially for quick evening meals or baking. Electrical components and heating elements can still fail due to general wear or heat-related stress.

Tip: Don’t ignore signs like inconsistent temperatures or uneven cooking. These can indicate problems developing under the surface.

‍

Stay protected this summer

Summer is a time to relax — not stress over sudden appliance breakdowns. With BIG Warranties, you can get comprehensive appliance insurance that covers unexpected failures, repairs, and call-out fees — saving you time, money, and hassle.

- Get appliance insurance now for individual items like your fridge freezer, washing machine, or dishwasher.

- Cover 4 or more appliances and save up to 20%* with our multi-appliance insurance - perfect for busy homes looking to protect more and spend less.

Don’t let summer breakdowns disrupt your plans. Let BIG Warranties keep your appliances covered and your home running smoothly.

‍

‍

*When policy is paid annually, if paying monthly a 15% discount applies.