Looking for a small appliance repair in your area?

Home appliances, whether small or large, are the unsung heroes of our daily lives. From keeping our food fresh to ensuring our clothes are clean, these smart machines work tirelessly—until they don’t.

A malfunctioning appliance can quickly turn into a major inconvenience, leaving homeowners scrambling for solutions. In this blog post, Appliance Repair of Washington will discuss common appliance issues, when to DIY versus calling a professional, and tips for extending the lifespan of your appliances.

Let’s start.

Common Appliance Problems and How to Address Them

Problem 1: Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly

One of the most frustrating appliance issues is a warm fridge. If not immediately fixed, it can lead to spoiled food and unnecessary expenses and food waste.

Possible Causes	Quick Fixes
Dirty condenser coils	Clean the coils at least twice a year
Faulty thermostat	Check the thermostat settings
Blocked air vents	Ensure vents are not obstructed

Problem #2: Washing Machine Making Loud Noises

If your washer sounds like it’s about to take off, something is likely amiss. 

Possible Causes	Quick Fixes
Unbalanced load	Redistribute the load evenly
Worn-out drum bearings	Inspect the drum and bearings for signs and wear
Loose motor mounts	Secure loose parts

Problem #3: Oven Not Heating Up

A non-functional oven can throw a wrench into meal prep.

Possible Cause	Quick Fixes
Faulty heating element	Inspect the heating element for damage
Malfunctioning thermostat	Reset the breaker if necessary
Tripped circuit breaker	Call in a professional

Problem #4: Dishwasher Leaving Dishes Dirty

A dishwasher that doesn’t clean properly is just a glorified drying rack.

Possible Causes	Quick Fixes
Clogged spray arms	Remove and clean the spray arms
Dirty filter	Regularly clean or replace the filter
Hard water buildup	Use a dishwasher-safe cleaner to remove buildup

Problem #5: Dryer Not Drying Clothes Efficiently

If your clothes are still damp after a full cycle, it’s time to troubleshoot.

Possible Causes	Quick Fixes
Clogged lint trap or vent	Clean the lint trap before every load
Faulty heating element	Check the vent hose for blockages
Overloaded drum	Reduce the load size

How to Extend the Life of Your Appliances

To get the most out of your home appliances, regular maintenance is key. Below are some practical tips you can do, even without help from professional repairmen.

Keep Appliances Clean

To keep our appliances clean, wipe down refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers weekly. Give time to removing lint from dryer vents and filters regularly as well.

You may also want to clean washing machine gaskets to prevent mold buildup.

Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines

To avoid problems, follow manufacturer’s guidelines. Use recommended detergents and settings, for example. Avoid overloading washers, dryers, and dishwashers.

It is best to defrost the freezer regularly to prevent ice buildup as well.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Getting a yearly check-up from an appliance repair specialist can catch minor issues before they become major problems.

Signs to Call in a Professional Appliance Repairman

Modern appliances are built to make our lives easier, but when they start acting up, it can quickly turn into a headache. While some minor issues can be resolved with a little troubleshooting, certain problems require the expertise of a professional appliance repairman.

 Here are some key signs that it’s time to call in the pros:

Unusual Noises or Vibrations

It’s normal for appliances to produce some noise. However, loud banging, grinding, rattling, or high-pitched squealing suggests a significant mechanical problem. These unusual sounds often signal issues such as worn belts, failing motors, or loose parts, and should be addressed promptly.

Appliance Won’t Turn On or Off

An appliance that won’t turn on, even when plugged in and receiving power, could have a faulty electrical component, a blown fuse, or a defective control board. Conversely, if an appliance stays on or runs constantly, the problem might be a malfunctioning thermostat or control system.

Frequent or Sudden Power Trips

If your appliance repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, it may have an electrical short, faulty wiring, or a problem with its internal parts. Ignoring this issue can lead to more serious electrical problems, including a potential fire risk.

Leaking Water or Gas

Leaks from appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, or refrigerators can cause significant home damage and should be addressed immediately. Gas leaks from stoves or ovens are particularly hazardous due to the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire. Any leaks, unusual odors, or pooling moisture around an appliance warrant an immediate call to a qualified technician.

Inconsistent or Poor Performance

When appliances like refrigerators, ovens, or dryers fail to perform their basic functions—such as keeping food cold, heating evenly, or fully drying clothes—it signals a problem. These performance issues typically point to internal component failures that need professional diagnosis and repair.

Burning Smells or Smoke

The smell of burning plastic, rubber, or electrical wiring is a serious warning sign. If you see smoke or smell anything unusual coming from an appliance, immediately turn it off and unplug it. Overheating electrical components can create dangerous situations, including fires, so it’s crucial to have a professional inspect the appliance as soon as possible.

Excessive Energy Consumption

A sudden increase in your electricity bill might be caused by an appliance operating inefficiently. An appliance working harder due to an internal problem could be using excess energy. A professional technician can diagnose the issue and restore the appliance’s energy efficiency.

Book a Small Appliance Repair Now

Your home appliances are significant investments, and taking care of them ensures they last longer and perform better. While some repairs can be handled with simple troubleshooting, knowing when to call a professional can save time, money, and frustration. 

Need expert assistance?

Our team here at Appliance Repair of Washington is ready to help. We offer comprehensive appliance repair solutions, including small appliance repair. 

Contact us today at (202) 410-2350 to schedule an appliance inspection or repair service. You may also send us a message.