Repair Tips for Everyday Home Appliances

Got a stubborn dishwasher, a cold shower, or an oven that won’t heat? You’re not alone. Most homeowners face a hiccup with at least one appliance each year. The good news? Many of these problems have simple fixes you can do yourself before calling a technician. Below are the most common issues, quick DIY steps, and clear signals that it’s time for a professional.

Common Problems and Easy Fixes

Water heater keeps resetting. If you’re constantly hitting the reset button, the thermostat or heating element may be failing. Start by turning off power, draining a few gallons, and inspecting the element for obvious signs of corrosion. Clean any mineral buildup with a vinegar soak, then replace the element if it looks worn. If the reset still trips, the thermostat likely needs a swap – a job best left to a qualified plumber.

Oven won’t heat. First, check the bake element for breaks or dark spots. Unplug the oven, remove the element, and look for a continuity break with a multimeter. A broken element is cheap and easy to replace. If the element is fine, the thermostat or temperature sensor might be the culprit. Again, testing with a multimeter can tell you if they’re faulty.

Microwave stops working. A blown fuse is the most frequent cause. Unplug the unit, locate the fuse (usually behind the turntable plate), and replace it with one of the same rating. If the microwave still won’t run, the door latch may not be engaging properly – clean the latch contacts and ensure the door closes fully.

Extractor fan makes loud noise. Dust and grease coat the motor’s fan blades, causing strain. Remove the fan cover, clean the blades with warm soapy water, and lubricate the motor shaft with a few drops of light oil. Reassemble and you’ll notice a quieter run and longer motor life.

When to Call a Pro

DIY works for many minor faults, but some problems are better handled by an expert. If you notice a gas smell near a stove or boiler, shut the appliance off and call a licensed technician immediately – safety first. Persistent leaks in a fridge compressor, a refrigerator that won’t stay cold, usually mean the compressor has failed and needs professional replacement.

Another red flag is repeated repairs on the same appliance. If you’ve fixed a washing machine three times in two years, the cost of parts and labour may soon exceed the price of a new model. A pro can assess whether repair still makes sense.

Lastly, any issue involving electrical components you’re not comfortable testing – like complex circuit boards in modern ovens or digital controls in boilers – should be left to certified electricians or heating engineers.

Keeping a few basic tools handy – a screwdriver set, multimeter, pliers, and a bucket for draining water – can save you time on most quick fixes. Pair those tools with a short check of the user manual, and you’ll tackle many hiccups without a service call.

Remember, regular maintenance is the best repair tip of all. Clean lint filters, descale water heaters, and run a cleaning cycle on dishwashers every few months. Small effort now prevents big breakdowns later, keeps your appliances running efficiently, and stretches the life of your investment.

Next time an appliance acts up, start with these simple steps. If you’re still stuck, we’re just a phone call away – Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services can handle any job, big or small, with fast, friendly service.