How To Deal With Common Appliance Issues
Most appliance faults follow predictable patterns. This guide covers the most common issues across major appliance categories and walks through what to check before calling for service. Our vetted technicians cover refrigerator repair, washer repair, oven repair, and more — from $89 with a quality guarantee. Members save $50 on every repair visit.
Refrigerator Issues
A refrigerator that's not cooling: check the temperature setting, listen for the compressor running, and verify the condenser coils on the back are not blocked with dust.
A leaking refrigerator usually has a clogged defrost drain — water can't escape the drip pan and overflows. Clearing it is straightforward but does require pulling the unit out and accessing the drain hose.
Washer Issues
A washer that won't start: confirm power, check the lid switch (lift the lid and let it drop — listen for the click), and verify the drain hose is not kinked.
A washer that won't spin: usually a worn drive belt or failed lid switch. A washer that fills and washes but won't drain has a clogged drain pump or blocked drain hose. Both are routine repairs once diagnosed.
Dryer Issues
A dryer that runs but doesn't heat has a failed heating element, blown thermal fuse, or thermostat issue. The thermal fuse is a safety device that blows when the venting is blocked.
Always clean the lint trap before every load and clean the venting at least annually. Most heating element failures trace back to lint-blocked venting causing overheating. Two minutes of preventive maintenance saves hours of repair.
Dishwasher Issues
A dishwasher leaving dishes dirty usually has clogged spray arms or low water-fill volume. Clean the spray arm holes with a paper clip and run a cycle with white vinegar.
A leaking dishwasher most often has a worn door gasket or a loose drain hose connection. Both are easy fixes. If water is on the floor in front of the unit, the gasket is the likely culprit.
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