Home appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines make our lives easier. But when they break down, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. This article will guide you through 10 common appliance problems and how to fix them yourself.
Key Takeaways
Knowing how to fix common appliance problems can save you time and money.
Regular maintenance can prevent many appliance issues.
Simple tools and basic knowledge are often enough to fix common problems.
Always unplug appliances before attempting any repairs.
If you're unsure about a repair, it's best to call a professional.
1. Refrigerator
Refrigerators are essential for keeping our food fresh, but they can sometimes run into issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Electrical Issues
A frequent cause for a refrigerator to stop cooling properly is an issue with the power source. To troubleshoot:
Ensure the fridge is properly plugged in.
Open the fridge to see if the light turns on. If not, there might be a power source problem.
Check all connections to ensure they are secure.
If these steps don't work, you may need to call a professional technician to fix the electrical glitch.
Water Leakage
Leaking water is a common problem. It can be caused by:
Clogged defrost drain
A leak in the waterline
High humidity
To fix this:
Disconnect the refrigerator from electric sources.
Remove all food and drinks to avoid contamination.
Use a plumbing snake to clear the clogged drain hose.
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into the drain and pour 2-3 cups of hot water to dissolve any blockages.
Working Freezer, Faulty Fridge
Sometimes, the freezer works but the fridge doesn't. This can lead to food spoilage. Possible causes include:
Bad thermistor
Faulty evaporator fan motor
To troubleshoot:
Check the resistance of the thermistor using a multimeter. If it doesn't show continuity, replace it.
Inspect the fan motor for any signs of damage or unusual noises. If faulty, replace it to ensure proper airflow and cooling.
2. Dishwasher
A dishwasher helps save time and effort by efficiently cleaning and sanitizing dishes. However, like any other appliance, dishwashers can encounter problems that may hinder their proper functioning. Let us find out some common dishwasher issues and provide solutions to resolve them.
Dishwasher Will Not Start
One frustrating problem is when your dishwasher refuses to start. There could be several reasons for this issue, including a blown fuse or a stuck motor. To troubleshoot this problem, you should first check the power connection. If the dishwasher is properly connected to a power source, the problem may lie internally.
Possible Causes:
Blown circuit breaker or outlet
Defective door lock
Faulty motor
Faulty control panel
Faulty internal components
Solutions:
If there is a blown circuit breaker, disconnect the power from the main source to prevent electric shock. Then, locate and check the fuse in the control panel. Replace the blown fuse with a new one.
For a defective door lock, open the door panel and locate the switch. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the switch with a new one.
If the motor is stuck, try manually spinning the fan motor to see if it rotates. If it doesn't, further inspection or professional assistance may be required.
Bad Smell
Another common issue with dishwashers is a persistent bad smell. This unpleasant odor can be caused by food remnants or melted plastic inside the dishwasher. Failure to clean the dishes properly before washing and lack of regular maintenance can contribute to this problem.
Possible Causes:
Food scraps sticking in filters or crevices
Oil and grease build-up leading to bacteria growth
Lack of maintenance
Solutions:
Clean the dishwasher filter regularly to remove trapped food particles.
Wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth to remove any grease or food residue.
Use a dishwasher cleaner monthly to prevent buildup and keep your dishwasher running efficiently.
Overfills or Underfills
When your dishwasher either overfills or underfills, it can be frustrating, and in the case of overfilling, it can be potentially damaging in case the dishwasher floods. The most seen reason for glitches with overfilling or underfilling is a problem with the dishwasher’s water inlet valve. This is the valve that regulates the flow of water into the dishwasher, and it can become worn or damaged with time. Another reason these malfunctions might occur is if there is an impairment with the float switch in the dishwasher. The float switch is the component in the dishwasher that tells it how much water is contained within it so that it can be regulated. It can malfunction when dirt or debris gets into it. It is best to call a technician to deal with this issue.
Dishes Dirty
Dirty dishes after washing is a fairly common impairment with some dishwashers. However, fortunately, there is usually a relatively easy fix. Stacking your dishes in a way that obstructs the spray arms of the dishwasher is the most frequent reason for this failure To fix this impairment, you should try to place large dishes on their side and toward the bottom of the dishwasher. Another reason for this often-seen malfunction is that the spray arms of your dishwasher are not functioning for some reason. Simply get a damp rag and clean the spray arms thoroughly, and make sure that the holes in it through which the water flows are not occluded by some debris, and this should fix your glitch.
Wet Dishes
If your dishes are still wet after the cycle, it could be due to a faulty heating element or a malfunctioning thermostat. Check these components and replace them if necessary. Also, ensure that you are using a rinse aid to help with the drying process.
Leaks
Your dishwasher might be leaking for various reasons. The most common reason is either damage to your drainage hoses or faulty gaskets. Damage to your drainage hoses can occur from prolonged use, as well as damaged gaskets. To check if the gasket is damaged, open the dishwasher and look at the flexible plastic seal around the edge of the door. This is the gasket. If it is damaged or dirty, it may be what is causing your leaking issue. We suggest wiping the gasket with a damp rag and making sure that it is positioned properly within the frame of the dishwasher. If this does not work, or if the malfunction is not with the gaskets, make an appointment with Logan Master Appliance to have one of our technicians take a look.
Won’t Drain
If your dishwasher doesn’t drain, this can be a significant pain and inconvenience, particularly if it causes the dishwasher to flood. This failure must be taken seriously, as it can cause significant water damage to the room in which your dishwasher is located if not addressed. The most frequent reason for a dishwasher failing to drain is because of a faulty check valve in the dishwasher’s drain sump. If this valve malfunctions, it causes a backup of water in the dishwasher, failing to drain. If the valve is not moving properly when filled with water, then it is not working properly. A professional should replace this valve as, unfortunately, there is not much of an at-home fix available for this common glitch.
3. Washing Machine
Washing machines are essential for keeping our clothes clean, but they can run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Washing Machine Won't Start
One of the main issues is when the washing machine won't start. This can be very frustrating. Here are some steps to troubleshoot:
Blown circuit breaker or outlet:
Defective door lock:
Stuck motor:
Unpleasant Odor
Another common problem is a bad smell coming from the washing machine. This can happen due to food remnants or debris getting stuck in the filters or crevices of the machine. Oil and grease buildup can also lead to bacteria growth, resulting in an unpleasant odor.
Solution:
Inspect the interior of your washing machine for any food particles or debris.
Use a brush or toothpick to remove any stuck food from the passageways.
Drain any stagnant water present in the machine.
Clean the interior of the washing machine thoroughly using a rag and soapy water.
Pay special attention to the dishwasher screen and wipe it clean.
Run a hot water cycle without any clothes to eliminate any remaining odor.
Wobbling Washing Machine
A wobbling washing machine not only causes noise but can also lead to damage. This issue is often due to an unbalanced load or uneven flooring. Make sure your laundry is evenly distributed and the machine is level. Adjust the feet of the washing machine to stabilize it. Using anti-vibration pads can also reduce movement and noise.
4. Dryer
Dryers make laundry tasks much more convenient and efficient. Here are some of the most common dryer problems and how to troubleshoot them effectively.
Dryer Shuts Off
This annoying issue can be caused by a faulty thermostat. What happens, in this case, is that your dryer heats up and operates relatively normally, but the thermostat malfunctions and sets higher temperatures than it should, causing a safety mechanism to activate and shut down the dryer. This can be caused by a clogged lint screen, blocked ventilation, or by consistently overloading your machine. The best way to address this glitch is to have the damaged or defective part replaced by a professional.
Noisy Dryer
Typically caused by a broken component called a glide or by blower wheel or drum support roller malfunction, this malfunction generally requires professional inspection and repair. The glides are plastic components that spin around with the dryer, and over time they can become worn or damaged. Additionally, the blower wheel or drum support roller may become worn. These parts are responsible for the insulation and smooth operation of your dryer, and without them, your dryer is likely to make quite a lot of noise when working.
Clothes Still Wrinkled
There are a number of causes for this problem. The most frequent one is that you are simply placing too many clothes in your dryer at once. Try to run your dryer with a half or even a quarter load, and see if it gets out the wrinkles. This may be all that is required to solve the glitch! If this does not help, then there may be an issue with your dryer’s heating element, which is the part of the dryer that is responsible for heating your clothes, and it may need to be replaced by a professional.
Clothes Are Warm But Not Dry
If you find that your clothes are warm but still damp after a drying cycle, the most likely cause is overloading the dryer. To resolve this, simply remove some clothes to reduce the load and run the dryer for another cycle. If the problem persists even with a lighter load, it could be due to a faulty heating part.
Possible Causes:
Clogged dryer vent pipe
Faulty heating element
How to Fix:
For faulty heating parts:
Unplug your dryer from the power outlet.
Detach the back panel and locate the faulty heating part.
Disconnect the wires and replace the faulty heating element with a new one.
Reconnect the power and run a test cycle.
For clogged ducts:
Disconnect the dryer from the power supply.
Remove the dryer vent pipe from the wall.
Clean the lint cover and the vent pipe thoroughly (you can use a vacuum cleaner or an auger snake to unclog the pipe).
Wash the vent cover with warm soapy water.
Reattach the vent pipe and lint cover.
Test run your dryer to check if the issue is resolved.
Dryer Drum Not Spinning
If you hear the humming sound of the dryer motor but the drum isn't spinning, there might be an issue with some of the dryer's components.
Possible Causes:
Worn out drum rollers
Worn out roller axles
Worn out drum bearings
Worn out drum glides
Damaged drive belts
How to Fix:
Unplug your dryer from the power outlet.
Remove the back panel to access the drum.
Inspect the drum rollers, axles, bearings, glides, and drive belts for wear and tear.
Replace any worn or damaged parts.
Reassemble the dryer and test it to ensure the drum spins properly.
5. Oven
The Oven Won't Heat to the Right Temperature
If your oven isn't heating to the correct temperature, it could be due to a few different issues. The problem might be with the temperature sensor, the gas igniter, or the heating element. Here's how to troubleshoot:
Check the temperature sensor to ensure it isn't touching the oven wall.
Use an ohmmeter to test if the sensor is working. If it's not, replace it.
If the sensor is fine, inspect the heating element or gas igniter for faults.
After replacing any faulty parts, re-calibrate the oven. Heat it to 350°F and check the temperature every 20 minutes for two hours using an oven thermometer. Calculate the average temperature and adjust the oven's temperature dial if needed.
Oven Door Won't Shut
An oven door that won't close properly can be a big problem. Follow these steps to fix it:
For gas ovens, unplug the oven first. Remove the door by pulling it up and out. You might need to unscrew some screws depending on the model.
Inspect the hinges and replace them if necessary. Also, check for broken door springs and replace them.
Use pliers to remove any broken springs and replace them. Wrap the ends of the new springs around two bolts.
Replace the rubber gasket around the door. If the door still won't close, you might need to replace the door sensor.
The Interior Light Is Out
If the interior light of your oven is out, it's similar to changing any other light bulb. Here's what to do:
Remove the bulb cover by turning it slightly counterclockwise.
Pull out the old bulb and replace it with a new one. Use gloves when handling the new bulb.
The Oven Won't Self-Clean
A self-cleaning oven is very convenient, but if it stops working, try these steps:
Ensure you're following the self-cleaning instructions correctly. Manually clean any large spills inside the oven.
If the self-cleaning cycle still doesn't run, a technician may need to replace the door lock motor and switch, control board, thermostat, or other parts.
Burnt Wire Connection
Sometimes, the power supply wires near the heating element can burn out. If you see any damage, replace the burnt wire or element and test to see if the issue is resolved.
Blown Thermal Fuse
If your oven overheats, a thermal fuse might blow, cutting off power to the oven. Test the fuse for continuity using a multimeter. If there's no continuity, replace the fuse.
Defective Control Board
Testing a control board isn't easy. If the sensor isn't the issue, the control board might be defective. Look for signs of burning or shorts on the control board. If you find any, call a qualified technician.
6. Stove
Stoves are essential for cooking meals, but they can encounter several common problems. Here are some of the most frequent issues and how to fix them.
Uneven Heating
One common issue with stoves is uneven heating. You may notice that certain areas of your stove's burners or oven don't distribute heat evenly, resulting in undercooked or burnt food. This problem can stem from various causes, such as a malfunctioning burner element, faulty temperature sensor, or clogged gas orifices.
Causes:
Malfunctioning burner element
Faulty temperature sensor
Clogged gas orifices
How to fix:
For a malfunctioning burner element, you can replace it by following the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance.
If the temperature sensor is causing the issue, you might need to replace it. Refer to your stove's user manual or consult a technician for guidance.
In the case of clogged gas orifices, carefully clean them using a small brush or compressed air. Ensure the stove is turned off and disconnected from the gas supply before attempting any cleaning. If you're unsure, it's best to contact a professional for assistance.
Ignition Problems
Another common problem that stove owners may encounter is ignition issues. Your stove's burners may fail to ignite, making it impossible to cook or heat food. This can be frustrating, especially when you're in a rush or have hungry mouths to feed. Ignition problems can arise due to a faulty ignition switch, a worn-out spark module, or a clogged ignition port.
Causes:
Faulty ignition switch
Worn-out spark module
Clogged ignition port
How to fix:
Check the ignition switch and replace it if necessary.
Inspect the spark module and replace it if it's worn out.
Clean the ignition port to remove any clogs.
The Range Burner Won’t Heat
If you have an electric stove, the burners may stop working and require replacement. If you notice that one or more of your burners is not working, try the following steps:
Unplug one of the working burners and switch it out with the malfunctioning one. If the burner begins to heat up after turning it on, the bad burner will need to be replaced.
If this does not do the trick, the issue could be either the socket or the infinite switch. Inspect the socket to see if it looks damaged or worn. If it does, simply replace it.
Test the burner again to see if it works.
If it doesn’t, test the infinite switch and replace it as needed.
The Oven Won’t Heat
If your gas oven is not heating up, the problem is most likely a faulty igniter or oven element not working (if it’s an electric oven). However, if the oven and the burners won’t heat, that usually means that there is a problem with the gas line. This will need to be fixed by a professional.
How to fix:
Remove the old igniter or heating element using a screwdriver. You can usually locate the heating elements inside the oven while the igniter can be accessed from underneath the oven.
Remove the broiler to access your igniter. Ensure that the power is turned off before attempting to fix the problem.
If you are unable to access the heating element, you may need to enlist the services of a qualified technician to replace it.
The Oven Won’t Heat to the Right Temperature
There are a number of possible causes for this problem. The culprit is either the temperature sensor, the gas igniter, or the heating element. Use an oven thermometer to check if the oven’s temperature matches the set temperature. If not, the thermostat or sensor may need replacing. Regularly cleaning the oven and ensuring proper ventilation can also help maintain accurate temperatures.
7. Microwave
Microwaves are essential for quick meals and reheating leftovers. However, they can encounter issues that disrupt their convenience. Here are two common microwave problems and how to fix them.
Blown Microwave Fuse
A blown fuse can make your microwave stop working entirely or prevent it from heating. Replacing a blown fuse is necessary as it cannot be reused.
Possible Causes:
Misaligned door
Overheating due to a faulty fan
Broken door interlock switches
Short circuit in the magnetron, power cord, or controller
High voltage diode short
How to Fix It:
Unplug the microwave to ensure safety.
Discharge the capacitor by placing screwdriver blades on each terminal.
Remove the blown fuse from the microwave.
Use a multimeter to check the capacitor's reading. Set the multimeter to the lowest range.
If there's no charge, the fuse is blown.
Replace the blown fuse with a new one.
Microwave Plate Not Moving
If the microwave plate doesn't rotate, your food won't cook evenly. The rotating plate is crucial for even heat distribution.
Possible Causes:
Faulty roller guide under the tray
Faulty drive coupler
Faulty drive motor
How to Fix It:
For a faulty motor:
Disconnect the microwave from the power source.
Locate the motor and disconnect its wires.
Use a multimeter to check for continuity at the motor's terminals.
If there's no continuity, the motor is faulty.
Replace the faulty motor with a new one.
For a faulty coupler:
Unplug the microwave.
Remove the roller guide and tray.
Check if the coupler is worn out or cracked.
Replace the worn-out coupler with a new one.
For a faulty roller guide:
Remove the tray and inspect the roller guide.
Check the outer rollers for damage or cracks.
If damaged, replace the roller guide with a new one.
8. Freezer
Freezer Not Freezing
If your freezer isn't freezing, it can be a big problem. This issue can lead to food spoilage and waste. Here are some common causes and how to fix them:
Thermostat Issues: Make sure the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. It should be at 0°F (-18°C).
Dirty Condenser Coils: Clean the coils located at the back or bottom of the freezer.
Faulty Door Seal: Check if the door seal is tight. If it's damaged, replace it.
Freezer Making Strange Noises
Strange noises coming from your freezer can be alarming. These noises are often due to:
Worn Out Fan Motor: The fan motor might need to be replaced.
Ice Buildup: Defrost the freezer to remove any ice buildup.
Freezer Leaking Water
Water leakage is a common problem. It can be caused by:
Clogged Defrost Drain: Clear the drain using a plumbing snake.
Damaged Water Line: Inspect and replace any damaged water lines.
Freezer Over-Freezing
If your freezer is over-freezing, it can lead to ice buildup and reduced efficiency. Common causes include:
Faulty Thermostat: Replace the thermostat if it's not working correctly.
Blocked Vents: Ensure that vents are not blocked by food items.
Freezer Not Running
If your freezer isn't running at all, check the following:
Power Supply: Make sure the freezer is plugged in and the outlet is working.
Control Board: The control board might need to be replaced if it's faulty.
9. Ice Maker
An ice maker that’s not producing ice can be inconvenient, especially during hot weather. Start by checking the water supply line to ensure it’s not blocked or kinked. Next, inspect the ice maker’s filter and replace it if it’s clogged. Also, ensure the ice maker’s arm is in the down position to enable ice production. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the ice maker may need servicing or replacement by a professional.
Common Issues
No ice production: Often caused by a blocked water line or a clogged filter.
Ice maker arm stuck: Make sure the arm is in the down position.
Faulty components: Sometimes, parts like the motor or thermostat may need to be replaced.
Quick Fixes
Check the water supply line for any blockages or kinks.
Replace the ice maker’s filter if it’s clogged.
Ensure the ice maker’s arm is in the down position.
If the problem persists, consider calling a professional for servicing or replacement.
10. Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal unit can be a real lifesaver in the kitchen, but it can also run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Disposal Hums but Doesn't Grind
If your garbage disposal hums but doesn't grind, it usually means there's a jam. First, make sure the unit is turned off and unplugged. Use a hex wrench to manually turn the disposal's motor from the bottom and dislodge any stuck debris. For stubborn jams, use a pair of tongs to remove the blockage.
Disposal is Leaking
Leaks can occur from various parts of the disposal. Check the sink flange, dishwasher connection, and discharge drainpipe. Tighten any loose connections and replace worn-out gaskets to stop the leaks.
Disposal Smells Bad
Bad odors can come from food remnants stuck in the disposal. Regularly grinding ice cubes and citrus peels can help keep your disposal clean and fresh.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with common appliance problems doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of knowledge and some basic tools, many issues can be resolved right at home. From a dishwasher that won't start to a dryer that doesn't heat, understanding the root cause and knowing how to fix it can save you time and money. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your appliances running smoothly. However, if you ever feel unsure or the problem seems too complex, don't hesitate to call a professional. Your safety and the longevity of your appliances are worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my refrigerator not cooling properly?
Your refrigerator might not be cooling properly due to dirty condenser coils or a faulty door seal. Clean the coils and check the seal for any cracks or gaps.
What should I do if my dishwasher won't start?
If your dishwasher won't start, check if the door latch is functioning properly, inspect the control board for faults, and ensure the water inlet valve is not clogged.
Why is my washing machine shaking during the spin cycle?
A washing machine that shakes during the spin cycle may have an unbalanced load or be placed on uneven flooring. Make sure the laundry is evenly distributed and adjust the machine's feet to stabilize it.
How can I fix a dryer that isn't heating up?
A dryer that isn't heating up may have a faulty heating element, thermal fuse, or thermostat. Use a multimeter to test these components and replace any that are defective. Also, check if the dryer vent is clear of obstructions.
What causes a microwave to stop heating?
A microwave that stops heating could have a blown fuse, a faulty magnetron, or a malfunctioning door switch. Unplug the microwave and inspect these parts, replacing any that are damaged.
How do I clear a jammed garbage disposal?
To clear a jammed garbage disposal, first turn off and unplug the unit. Use a hex wrench to manually turn the disposal's motor from the bottom and dislodge any stuck debris. For stubborn jams, use tongs to remove the blockage.
Comments