How to Oil a Kitchenaid Mixer

The KitchenAid stand mixer is a must-have kitchen appliance for both professional and amateur bakers. It’s powerful, versatile, and built to last, but like any machine, it requires regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best. One of the essential maintenance tasks is oiling the mixer. While it may seem daunting, oiling a KitchenAid mixer is a relatively simple process that can greatly extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.

This article will guide you through the process of oiling your KitchenAid mixer, discussing why it’s necessary, when and how often it should be done, and providing you with a step-by-step guide. We’ll also tackle some frequently asked questions about the process.

The Importance of Oiling Your KitchenAid Mixer

KitchenAid mixers are geared machines. These gears are lubricated with a special grease that reduces friction and prevents wear and tear. Over time, the grease can break down or become contaminated, leading to increased friction and potential damage to the gears.

Oiling or re-greasing your mixer helps keep the gears operating smoothly, reducing the chance of premature wear or failure. It also ensures your mixer runs quietly and efficiently.

When and How Often to Oil Your Mixer

As a rule of thumb, a KitchenAid mixer should be oiled once every couple of years or after about every 100 hours of use. However, this can vary depending on the frequency and intensity of use. Signs that your mixer may need oiling include louder-than-usual operation, a noticeable decrease in performance, or visible grease leakage.

How to Oil Your KitchenAid Mixer: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Disconnect the Mixer: Always unplug your mixer before performing any maintenance to prevent accidental injury.
2. Remove the Attachment Hub: Unscrew and remove the attachment hub on the front of the mixer.
3. Remove the Rear Housing Cover: Unscrew and remove the rear housing cover to expose the gears.
4. Clean the Old Grease: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to carefully remove the old grease from the gears and housing.
5. Apply New Grease: Apply a high-quality food-grade grease to the gears. Be sure to apply a generous amount, but avoid over-applying as this can cause leakage.
6. Reassemble the Mixer: Replace the rear housing cover and attachment hub, making sure to tighten all screws securely.
7. Run the Mixer: Plug in and run the mixer for a few minutes to distribute the new grease.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of oil should I use for my KitchenAid mixer?

KitchenAid recommends using a food-grade grease for their mixers. This grease is safe for use with food-preparation appliances and is designed to withstand the high temperatures generated by the mixer’s gears.

2. Can I use cooking oil to oil my KitchenAid mixer?

No. Cooking oil is not suitable for lubricating the gears of a KitchenAid mixer. It doesn’t have the right consistency or heat-resistance properties and can lead to damage.

3. How much grease should I apply when oiling my KitchenAid mixer?

A general rule is to fill about a third of the mixer’s gear cavity with grease. However, refer to your mixer’s user manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations.

Conclusion

Oiling your KitchenAid mixer is a crucial part of its maintenance. Regular oiling can significantly extend the life of your mixer, ensuring it remains a reliable tool in your kitchen for years to come. With the right knowledge and a little time, you can keep your KitchenAid mixer performing at its peak, helping you create delicious meals and baked goods with ease.

Remember, always disconnect the mixer before servicing, use high-quality food-grade grease, and don’t be afraid to consult your user manual or KitchenAid’s customer service if you’re unsure about any part of the process.