Problem

Dryer Repair How to handle/Tip

Dryer won't start

The most common causes include a bad door switch, broken plunger or a blown thermal fuse. Remember to check the usual suspects, too (e.g., power cords and electrical outlets). Note: An overheated motor will cause the machine to turn off; machine may work fine after the drum cools.  

Dryer starts but drum won't rotate

The cause is likely a broken belt. Access the belt by removing the cabinet panel and lifting out the entire drum. Other causes include a faulty motor or capacitor.  

Dryer not heating

Low or no-heat dryer temperature is perhaps the most frustrating of all-the causes are many:  

א  Thermal fuse - if blown, must be replaced

א  Heating element (coil of heating wire enclosed in a metal chamber located in front or rear panel) - test for continuity

א  High-limit thermostat - not designed to activate repeatedly like cycling thermostats (is designed to prevent overheating when exhaust vent is restricted)

א  Cycling thermostat - responsible for controlling temperature inside the dryer drum (located on blower housing or elsewhere in the internal airflow ducting)

א  Igniter (on gas models)

א  Radiant flame sensor (part of a gas dryer's burner assembly)

א  Gas control valve (some models)

א  Coils (found in modern gas dryers)

א  Temperature sensor - must know what resistance is at room temperature to verify if it is defective - test for continuity

א  Timer (located in the control console) - responsible for controlling the dryer's motor and heat circuit

Dryer burns or tears clothes

Likely the result of a worn roller causing the drum to drop-clothes are then pinched or torn in the resulting gap or scorched due to false temperature reading/setting. The culprit might also be damaged glides or drum seals. Consult a repair technician for these complex repairs.

Dryer makes strange noises, thumps, rumbles or chirps

The noise source may include frayed drum belts, a worn drum support bearing, or worn rollers and roller axles. The culprit might also be missing socks or other clothing trapped behind the blower wheel. Follow owner's manual instructions to make these repairs or contact a service technician.

Problem

Washer Repair - How to handle/Tip

Machine won't start

Check the usual suspects: Power cords and electrical outlets, and be sure the machine’s lid is tightly closed.

Tub doesn't fill with water; water drains slowly or water is the wrong temperature

The machine water inlet valves may be faulty. Easy to locate, repair or replace, the valve assembly is located behind the machine’s back service panel. Remove cold and hot-water hose valves and disconnect wires from the terminal. Check for broken valves or clogged valve screens. Clean or repair valves as necessary.

Also, check that water supply hoses are free of blockages and kinks.

Spin cycle doesn't work

If your top-loading washer doesn't spin properly, it probably needs a new belt. Other culprits include a faulty drive block (located under the agitator), motor coupling, drive motor or tub bearing, to name just a few. Check the owner’s manual for model specific instruction for repairs.

Electrical issues can also cause spin cycle failure: Check the door lock motor and switch assembly as well as the motor control board.

Machine shakes or vibrates

Some vibration is normal, but vigorous shaking may signal a problem. First, make sure the machine is level, including an inspection or adjustment of rubber tips on all feet. Next, adjust the load if clothing is gathered to one side. Sudden stops after vibrating can also be caused by a broken motor belt. Also, visually inspect the agitator (a center-post, finned part that sits in the center of the tub) for cracks. 

If the machine still shakes or vibrates while running an empty cycle, contact your service technician.

Machine leaks

Check hose fittings at the back of the machine. Look for worn hoses or loose hose clamps or couplings. Also, check for faulty tub seals and bearings. Leaks may also be caused by oversudsing. Counter this with a low-sudsing detergent variety or by adding 1/2 cup of vinegar diluted in 1 quart of water into the current wash cycle. 

Symptom:

Dishwasher Repair Troubleshooting Tips:

Won't turn on

Make sure your dishwasher is properly connected to the power source. If it isn't the power, the motor, door latch switch or control timer/panel may be bad.

You might also need to check the wires inside the junction box for corrosion, breaks or loose connections.  Also check the interior of the junction box for any burn or "arc" marks. If this is the case, call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Doesn't clean dishes

Operator error? Never overfill your dishwasher, as this can obstruct the function of the spray tower or arms.

Other possible problems include bad detergent (cleaners that contain phosphates leave a white film on dishes) or low water temperature. Ideal dishwasher water temperature is between 130 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Doesn't rinse/fill with water

Check to make sure the float assembly (inside the dishwasher near the door on the floor of the dishwasher) moves freely up and down. If not, the float switch might be defective or stuck. Other problems include defective inlet valves or water supply problems.

Note: Remember to turn off the water before working on the water line.

Doesn't drain

Check to make sure the strainer is not clogged with food or debris, such as bones, fruit or silverware. If the strainer is all clear, check to make sure the drain hose is not blocked, bent or kinked.  On the other hand, your dishwasher might not be the problem. Check the garbage disposer for a clogged drain line.

Leaks

Leaks are often caused by hose problems. First, check the drainage hose for cracks or loose connectors. Leaks can also be caused by loose or bad heating element gaskets. To replace bad gaskets, simply unscrew the heating element and unlock it from its holders.

Won't dry dishes

Faulty vents or burnt out fan motors or heating elements are likely the cause. Access and inspect the drying fan by removing the lower panel located beneath the door.

Note: Remember to shut off the water supply and unplug the power when attempting to replace a heating element.

Makes strange noises

Strange thumping, chattering or knocking noises can be caused by many things, including too many dishes, faulty parts, debris or an appliance that is not sitting level. The inlet valve might also be clogged or need to be replaced.

Symptom:

Refrigerator Repair Troubleshooting Tips:

Make strange sounds/noises

Some level of hissing and popping is normal for frost-free refrigerator models. Locate the sound (i.e., front, back, inside, bottom). Check for faulty evaporator, condenser and compressor fans and mounts-replace if necessary.

Noises coming from inside the fresh food compartment indicate a faulty defrost timer.

Stay warm/Not get cold enough

(Ideal temperature settings: Refrigerators: 36 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit/ Freezers: 0 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit)

Try testing the temperature setting first. Additional troubleshooting tips: Assure there is sufficient room for air flow (both inside and outside the unit); check door seals, evaporator and condenser fans; check for a blocked drain tube or a coolant leak. In the case of coolant leaks, call an appliance repair expert.  

Run all the time

Continuously running for more than a 24-hour period may indicate a problem. Try cleaning the condenser coils (underneath the unit), or checking the door seals or testing the door switch. There might also be a coolant leak. Note that it is common for units to run (in an attempt to cool down) after temperature adjustments, after being loaded or if located in a humid environment.

Leak water inside unit

Check for a blocked drain tube. Unplug the unit and locate the drain plug near the back or bottom of the main compartment.

Leak water on floor

Check the drain pan. If you have an icemaker, check for a leak in the water supply hose. Also, if the refrigerator is completely level or tipped slightly forward, the water may not be able to drain properly.

Apart from leaks, consider cleaning the drain pan periodically to prevent mold.

Have ice buildup (freezer)

Check the door gasket for leaks. Place a flashlight in the freezer, pointing the beam towards the door. If light is still visible when the door is closed, the gasket should be replaced. Purchase gaskets from the manufacturer or a large-appliance retailer.