When a dishwasher stops spraying or a fridge starts humming weirdly, the first thought is usually “call someone”. But a quick check can save you a call, a call-out fee, and a day without a working appliance. Below are the basics you can use right now, plus tips on when it’s time to hand the job over to a pro.
Most home appliances break in predictable ways. A washing machine that won’t spin often has a blocked pump or a loose belt. Unplug it, locate the pump (usually behind the bottom panel), and clear any lint or socks. If the belt looks frayed, tighten or replace it – a simple screwdriver does the trick.
Fridges lose cooling when the condenser coils are dusty. Pull the fridge away from the wall, unscrew the back panel, and brush away the dust with a vacuum brush. This alone can improve temperature by several degrees.
Electric ovens frequently give error codes because the door latch isn’t making proper contact. Open the door, check the latch for crumbs or burnt spots, and clean it with a damp cloth. If the door still won’t stay closed, the latch spring may need replacing – a quick swap that most DIYers can handle.
Some jobs are best left to the experts. If a washing machine’s drum is wobbling, the drum bearing is probably worn – that part is heavy, requires disassembly, and needs special tools. Likewise, a fridge that’s making a loud clicking noise often points to a failing compressor. Replacing a compressor isn’t a weekend project; it requires safe handling of refrigerant, which only certified technicians should do.
Gas appliances add another layer of risk. A gas oven that won’t ignite could have a faulty igniter or a gas leak. Trying to fix a leak yourself is dangerous. Call a qualified gas technician and let them handle the pressure valves and ignition system.
At Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions, we specialize in these tougher jobs. Our technicians know the exact parts that fail most often – like the drum/tub assembly in washers, the compressor in fridges, and the igniter in gas ovens – and we have the tools to fix them safely and quickly.
Even if you feel confident tackling a fix, a quick call for a price estimate can help you decide if DIY is worth it. We’ll break down the cost of parts and labour, so you can compare it to your own time and tools.
Regular maintenance is the real secret to avoiding big repair bills. Clean coils, descale kettles, check door seals on fridges and freezers, and run a hot water cycle with vinegar in your washing machine every few months. These habits add a few minutes to your week but keep appliances humming for years.
Bottom line: try the simple checks first, know the signs that point to a bigger issue, and don’t hesitate to call a local pro when safety or complex parts are involved. Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions is just a phone call away for fast, affordable service that gets your home back to normal in no time.
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Orin Trask
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