Appliance Tips: Quick Fixes and Maintenance Advice

Got a fridge that’s not cooling, a dishwasher that won’t drain, or a dryer that’s making weird noises? You’re not alone. Most homeowners face at least one of these hiccups each year, and the good news is you can often solve them yourself before calling a pro. Below are the most common problems you’ll meet around the house and simple steps to keep everything humming.

Common Problems and Simple Fixes

Fridge not cooling? First, check the thermostat setting – it’s easy to dial it too low. Next, make sure the condenser coils at the back are clean; dust acts like a blanket and stops heat from escaping. If the fridge still struggles, listen for the compressor clicking. A constant click usually means the start relay is bad and needs replacing.

Dishwasher won’t drain? Pull out the filter at the bottom and clear any food bits. Then, inspect the pump hose for kinks or blockages. A quick run of hot water through the hose can clear minor clogs. If water still pools, the pump itself may be worn out and should be swapped.

Washing machine shaking? Level the machine first – use a spirit level and adjust the feet. Over‑loading or an unbalanced load can also cause vibration, so spread clothes evenly. If the machine still rattles, check the shock absorbers; they’re cheap and easy to replace.

Oven not heating? Look at the heating element for visible cracks or breaks. If it’s darkened or broken, replace it. For electric ovens, a faulty thermostat or control board can be the culprit – a quick voltage test with a multimeter tells you which part needs attention.

Water heater won’t stay on? The reset button on the thermostat can trip if the heater overheats. Hold it for a few seconds, then wait a minute and try again. If it keeps tripping, sediment buildup at the bottom might be causing overheating; a full flush can clear the sludge.

Keeping Your Appliances Running Longer

Regular care beats emergency repairs every time. For refrigerators, wipe the interior shelves monthly and keep the door seals clean – a leaky seal makes the unit work harder. Dishwashers love a clean filter; scrub it weekly to avoid clogs. Dryers benefit from a lint screen clean after each use and a vent hose cleared of lint every few months – this also cuts fire risk.

Boilers and heating systems need an annual service. A professional will check the pressure, clean the heat exchanger, and ensure safety valves work. Doing this yourself is risky unless you’re trained, but you can at least keep the pressure gauge in the green zone and bleed radiators when they get icy.

Finally, keep an eye on the age of each appliance. Most washing machines last 10‑12 years, dryers 12‑15, and ovens 15‑20. When a repair cost approaches half the price of a new unit, it’s time to consider replacement. Knowing the lifespan helps you budget and avoid surprise breakdowns.

By spotting issues early, cleaning regularly, and doing quick DIY fixes, you’ll stretch the life of your appliances and save money. Next time something goes wrong, try these steps first – you might just solve the problem without a service call.