Hey there DIY enthusiasts! I know you love rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty more than the next guy. Today, we're talking about that one item you've probably overlooked in your toolbox - mixer grease. I know it doesn't sound like the most exciting topic, but let's knead it in and give it a chance.
Just as frosting is to a cake; that's what mixer grease is to your durable kitchen mixer. It keeps it running smoothly and adds longevity to its life. As your friendly neighbourhood repairman, I've got some tips to share. Come on, let's blend in this super ingredient!
The A-B-C's of Mixer Grease
Mixer grease probably sounds obscure. It's sort of like the salt of your kitchen tools. You don't pay it much mind until your dough starts sticking, right? Well, mixer grease is a high-temperature grease used in mixers to keep them operating at peak efficiency. It reduces friction among the mixer's gears, provides a seal, and absorbs shocks.
Why specifically high-temperature, you ask? Well, when the mixer works, it generates heat, and your regular grease won't be able to handle the heat and melt away. Thus, high-temperature grease endures and prevents the machine from wearing out prematurely.
Choosing the Right Mixer Grease
When it comes to choosing the right mixer grease, think of picking out a new car – it has to be reliable and complement your needs. The mixer grease market is chock-full of options– some are thicker (recommended for older mixers or heavy-duty users), while some are thinner (suitable for regular home users). What you need is a grease that remains stable under high pressure, does not drip or run and resist break down under high temperatures.
My personal fav? The CRC food grade white grease. It’s odorless, tasteless, white grease that does wonders in extending the life of your mixer. Plus, it's food grade, meaning it's safe if it incidentally comes into contact with food.
Getting Down to Business: Applying Mixer Grease
With all the dirty details about what mixer grease is and which one to choose, it's finally time to dive into how to use this magical elixir. Half the fun of owning a mixer is getting to refresh the old grease with a new batch.
First, unplug your mixer for safety. Then, disassemble it, taking care to remember where each part goes (snapping a few pics on your phone might help you). Once disassembled, clean out the old, grimy grease with a cloth or paper towel, and finally, apply the new grease. It’s truly a game of adult Legos – messy, greasy, satisfying adult Legos.
Club the Grease In
Apply the grease to the gears and cavities using a small spatula or flathead screwdriver, much like how you spread frosting on a cake. The only difference? In this case, more is more! Don’t skimp out on the grease. It's better to have a little extra than not enough, but remember to avoid overfilling as it can eventually leak out.
Reassemble your mixer, give it a quick run to distribute the grease evenly, and voila! You've officially performed your first mixer grease operation. Feels good, right?
How Often Should I Replace My Mixer Grease?
Like sipping a good old whiskey, there's no hard and fast rule. The type of usage, the environment where the mixer is stored, and the frequency of operation are all considerations. As a rule of thumb, consider replacing the grease every three to five years, but you might need to do it more frequently if you're a heavy user.
Trust me, your mixer will thank you. Just listen for those buttery smooth operations, that's your mixer purring in happiness.
And... That's the Mix!
There you have it! Turns out mixer grease isn't so dull, right? Once you get your hands greased up and realize your mixer can run like a dream, you'll wonder why you ever delayed this task.
Remember – a well-maintained mixer is a happy mixer. And a happy mixer makes even happier cookies, cakes, breads and dreams come true. So next time you're baking a treat, throw on some old clothes, roll up your sleeves, and give your trusty mixer the grease job it deserves. Happy mixing, folks!