The Top 5 Most Common Appliance Repair Issues (and How to Fix Them)

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Do you have an appliance that’s acting up? Are you worried about having to call a repairman or having to purchase a new appliance? You’re not alone. Appliance repair issues are surprisingly common, but the good news is that many can be resolved with a few simple steps. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five most common appliance repair issues and provide advice on how to fix them. 

Refrigerator: Not Cooling Properly

If your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, it could be a sign of a few different issues. Before you rush to call for a repair service, take a few minutes to assess the situation. First, make sure the refrigerator is plugged in, the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped and the temperature range is between 35°F and 40°F. It’s also important to inspect the seals on your refrigerator doors. If the seals are worn out, cold air can escape and cause the refrigerator to run inefficiently. If all else fails and you still cannot get your refrigerator to cool properly, contact a professional refrigerator repair service. 

Dishwasher: Not Draining

If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, the issue can range from a minor clog to a major repair. The first step is to check for any visible blockages in the drain hose and to ensure that the hose is not kinked or bent. If there are no visible blockages, then it may be time to call in a professional repair technician. Common issues with the drain pump include clogs, debris accumulation, a faulty motor, and electrical problems. The technician will clean out the clog or debris, replace the motor, or repair any faulty wiring.

Oven: Not Heating Properly

One of the most common appliance repair issues is an oven that isn’t heating properly. If your oven isn’t reaching the temperature you’ve set, it’s likely a problem with the thermostat or heating elements. To check whether it’s the thermostat or heating element, you’ll need to unplug the oven and remove the rear cover of the range. Inspect the heating elements and wiring. If the troubleshooting doesn’t work, it is best to hire a professional repair specialist to diagnose and fix the issue.

Washing Machine: Not Spinning

If your washing machine isn’t spinning properly, there are a few potential causes. Before you attempt any repairs, be sure to unplug your washing machine and wear protective gloves. First, check for blockages in the pump or filter. If these are blocked, then the washing machine won’t be able to spin. Clear away any debris or blockages and try again. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, then the problem could be a faulty motor or motor capacitor. If the motor seems to be in working order, then the problem could be a faulty belt. 

Dryer: Not Heating

Dryers could malfunction due to issues with the thermal fuse, thermostat and heating element. Before attempting any repairs, ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet and that the power switch is in the on position. If the thermal fuse tripped, you should check the venting system and exhaust duct for clogs or debris. Also, check the wiring and reset any circuit breakers or fuses in your breaker box if necessary.