Homeowners frequently forget about the appliances they use daily until they experience a problem with performance or the item stops working. This is wrong. You should give your appliance regular care, which will improve your automatic ice maker’s performance and extend its life.

Wondering how to keep your ice maker in great shape and increase its efficiency? Here’s how to do it as given by refrigerator ice maker repair professionals:

Clean your ice maker regularly

Dirt and other impurities, such as germs, can cause the ice to taste or smell foul and dangerous. When pollutants accumulate in the ice maker, ice cubes may also fluctuate in size.

Ice machines may perform slower and wear out more quickly without frequent cleaning. To stay safe, you should often clean your ice maker twice a year or more if you have hard water.

Some ice maker manufacturers recommend that you use sanitizers, while others suggest using a dilute bleach solution and flushing with water. Warm water with dish soap or vinegar may also be adequate.

If you use vinegar, don’t spill it on stainless steel. Specialty cleaners can help with hard water and mineral buildup difficulties. To have an easy time, follow these steps to keep your ice cube machine clean:

• Since air moves from the refrigerator to the freezer, clean the fridge, freezer compartments, and adjacent surfaces.
• When you are ready to focus on the ice maker, unplug the refrigerator. This process is quick. Therefore, no food should need to be moved to a cooler.
• Clean removable pieces like the ice bin, paying close attention to the owner’s manual for precise instructions. You should also clean the dispenser chute according to the manual’s instructions.
• Clean the interior of the ice maker with a clean washcloth and warm water, followed by your preferred cleaning agent. Rinse well with ordinary water and dry the surfaces.
• If necessary, descale and remove any mineral accumulation. Calcium deposits, known as scale, might be problematic if your ice machine lacks a reverse osmosis system.
• Reassemble the components and run a few batches of fresh ice, discarding the first two or three batches to remove any old ice.

Give your ice maker some space.

Unfortunately, ice makers are frequently installed in less-than-optimal conditions. Suppliers may know the machine’s specifications but are less knowledgeable about installation needs.

There should be at least one foot of room around all sides of the ice machine. Instead, units are frequently positioned in cubbies or small places where a lack of ventilation generates a microclimate with much higher temperatures as hot air is blasted out of the machine. And this is wrong.

Ice makers need to suck in cool air to produce ice, so there is a problem when hot air is trapped around them. To maximize production during this busy season, try repositioning the ice maker.

If the ice maker is near a highly hot item, such as a stove, relocate it.

Furthermore, with time, the ice maker may become a storage area, with boxes, crates, or other goods placed on top of or against it. Clear this away before the busy season to keep the unit happy, producing summer ice.

Check the water temperatures.

This tip is handy if lesser ice production has already been observed. An ice maker that isn’t fulfilling output requirements in the off-season will be a massive issue during the busy season.

Ice producers work best when the incoming water temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is excessively warm, the ice maker must work harder to cool it, resulting in longer ice cycles.

Underground water lines are less likely to shift over the summer. However, some water pipes pass through walls or the roof, where they may be exposed to summer heat.

Easy Ice experts have measured incoming water temperatures as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit during summer. If ice production slows as outdoor temperatures rise, investigate this aspect.

Have an ice management protocol.

This exclusive tip costs nothing but can greatly boost a business’s ice production. Many individuals are unaware that the size of the bin underneath the ice maker can limit its ice production capabilities.

The ice maker is signaled to slow or stop producing ice when the ice bin is full. Ice shortages arise when an ice bin’s storage capacity exceeds the ice maker’s output capacity, and the firm relies on the entire ice machine production rate.

To remedy this, every drink station and ice storage bin in the establishment (behind the bar, above the drink station, or where ice is typically utilized) should be stocked with shift openers and closers. By freeing up bin space, the ice maker can operate around the clock.

Employees should be instructed to scoop ice from the ice maker’s back. If ice accumulates too soon, the bin control may trigger, telling the ice maker to halt. Additionally, teach them how to move ice forward with an ice shovel when necessary.

Shut down the ice maker when not in use.

If you aren’t using the ice maker or are away from home, turn it off to extend its life. Most ice makers include a power switch. Turning off the ice cube maker might also assist in defrosting and removing obstructions. Thorough defrosting may necessitate unplugging the refrigerator for a prolonged period.

Troubleshoot Issues with Your Refrigerator’s Ice Maker

If your ice maker isn’t working correctly or you believe something is wrong, refer to the owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting suggestions. Check for potential faults before they become safety hazards or broken components.

Before you investigate the ice maker, unplug the refrigerator and switch off the water supply. While consulting the troubleshooting handbook particular to your ice maker model is essential, here are some basic guidelines:

Water supply problems, such as a clogged or kinked line, a faulty water entry valve, or a bulging line, will most likely require professional appliance repair Springfield. Look for obvious evidence of damage or leaks and fix them.

The post Refrigerator Ice Maker Tips and Tricks to Keep it Running Longer first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

Do you have a glass or ceramic cooktop you are proud to own? You are one of the lucky people because these appliances make cooking a breeze. Unfortunately, the units need care to stay brand new.

You should note that you risk having your appliance covered in stains and food buildup without regular maintenance and attention. Your appliance is also bound to get damaged, and you have to keep hiring an appliance repair professional when you don’t show love to your unit.

The good thing is that there are numerous ways you can use to maintain the brand-new appearance of your cooktop. Although there is no assurance that these suggestions will keep your cooktop safe, they will greatly assist.

Remember that routinely cleaning the cooktop will also help to maintain the sleek, tidy appearance you fell in love with when you purchased your cooktop.

If you take care of it quickly, a mess on your stovetop will be easier to clean up and less likely to cause irreversible damage.

To help you out, here are hacks on how to keep your ceramic cooktop in top shape:

Choose your cookware wisely

You should take extra care to choose cookware that won’t harm the smooth surface of your ceramic or glass cooktop. Cookware made of ceramic or stoneware with rough, unpolished bases should never come close to your cooktop.

Avoid placing dishes on the cooktop while removing them to cool, and keep them in the oven. Do you have a favorite cast iron skillet? Regretfully, you must keep it away from your burner.

Any movement of a cast iron pot or pan on the cooktop can cause scratches because cast iron cookware is often very rough and can ruin your cooktops. You don’t want this, do you?

Avoid using pans or skillets with rounded edges to have an easier time. A rounded edge may result in uneven heat distribution, subjecting the glass or ceramic to needless stress. When your old cookware starts to warp, replace it with new cookware that lays relatively flat.

Be cautious about how you handle your cookware.

Now that you know you have the correct cookware, it’s critical to manage it carefully to maintain the brand-new appearance of your unit. Steer clear of dragging heavy pots, pans, and plates across the cooktop.

Cookware can scrape if it is dragged, even a short distance. Move your pots and pans to a different part of the cooktop to lessen the chance of scratches.

Before cooking, ensure that the bottoms of your skillets and pots are thoroughly clean. Electric stovetops can acquire rings or markings that are extremely difficult to clean. This is mainly due to oil buildup on the bottom of the cookware, which, when heated, can cook into the glass or ceramic.

Keeping your cookware clean will prevent this, saving you time and effort cleaning your stovetop.

Ensure that you don’t spill when cooking.

While electric stovetops are easier to clean in many respects, you should avoid spills while cooking. Spills can easily become heated and attached to the glass or ceramic, necessitating a difficult clean-up.

You should be cautious when boiling or heating sweet foods. Sugar is especially harmful to electric cooktops because the sugar molecules attach to the glass as it cools, causing the surface to become marred. Some cause fading in spots, particularly on white or light gray cooktops. To be on the safe side, clean up any sugary spills on your cooktops right away.

Be cautious of heat

Remember that the intense heat on the glass can result in undesirable chemical reactions. As a result, when handling your stovetop, keep a few general guidelines in mind.

Never stand on top of or place anything too heavy on a glass cooktop, even momentarily. While the glass may appear to support the weight at first when the cooktop heats up, the surface expands somewhat and may crack or shatter, and you don’t want this.

Additionally, never allow hot glass bakeware to cool on a smooth cooktop. You should set glass bakeware on a dry towel or trivet. Immediate contact between a heated and a calm surface may cause either piece of glass to break.

Be cautious about how you clean your surfaces.

When it comes to cleaning, don’t forget about your stovetop. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your stovetop clean and glossy. If you wind up with food or oil crusted on your stovetop, don’t worry. Go to the shop and get a cooktop cleaner, or a sponge and dish soap can do the trick.

Never use abrasive cleaners, scrubs, or metal pads on your cooktop; they can cause severe scratching that you can only fix by replacing the cooktop.

Despite your best attempts to properly use your glass/ceramic cooktop, occasionally baked-on food is unavoidable. When this happens, attempt one of the following methods:

Clean the cooktop once a week. Spray the cooktop with white vinegar, then sprinkle with baking soda. Cover with a clean towel dampened with hot water and allow the mixture to work for 15 minutes before wiping away. When acidic vinegar reacts with alkaline baking soda, the chemical reaction loosens most baked-on foods.

Scrubbing deeply embedded spots with a toothbrush and baking soda toothpaste can occasionally be effective. However, avoid vigorous scrubbing of the entire cooktop because baking soda is abrasive and might harm the glass.

Do not use professional abrasive cleaners or washing pads on your glass cooktop.

Ordinary grease-cutting dish soap, applied with a non-abrasive sponge, is usually effective at cleaning up spilled foods off a glass cooktop if done promptly after cooking. Before you do this, ensure that the stove is completely cool.

Parting shot

These tricks keep your cooktops in top shape and cooktop repair Northern VA professionals at bay. You should be ultra-cautious when handling your cooktops, regardless of how tough they look.

You should note that if the cooktops develop issues, you should work with experts to help you bring them back to life.

The post Guide to Taking Care of Your Ceramic Cooktops first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

Your refrigerator is one of the most hardworking appliances in your home since it constantly works to keep your food fresh and safe to consume. However, this constant functioning might lead to significant energy usage if not managed appropriately.

Thankfully, by implementing a few basic measures, you can improve your refrigerator’s efficiency, reduce energy expenditures, and extend its lifespan.

This guide by refrigerator repair professionals provides tips for increasing the efficiency of your refrigerator and saving you money.

Set the proper temperatures.

One of the best ways to improve your refrigerator’s efficiency is to set the proper temperatures for the refrigerator and freezer sections.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USDA) recommends keeping your refrigerator section at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4°C) or lower. Many refrigerators include a built-in thermometer to monitor temperatures. If yours does not have this feature, insert a separate thermometer in the center of the middle shelf to ensure safe food storage.

Aim for a freezer temperature of 0°F (-18°C). This temperature is low enough to freeze food without overheating your appliance. Remember that a fully loaded freezer is more efficient than an empty one since the frozen products help keep the temperature low.

Maintain optimal room temperatures.

Room temperature has a huge impact on your refrigerator’s efficiency. For proper ventilation, leave at least a 2-inch gap between the back of the fridge and the wall, with about 1 inch of room on the sides.

Keep the refrigerator away from heat sources such as ovens and bright sunshine, which might cause the appliance to work more to maintain its internal temperature.

Aim for a steady room temperature of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). This temperature range allows your refrigerator to run efficiently, lowering energy usage and prolonging the fridge’s lifespan.

Make sure the area around your refrigerator is well-insulated to prevent extra heat from harming it. You should note that proper room insulation helps maintain a stable ambient temperature, which improves your refrigerator’s efficiency.

Place your fridge in a cool place with enough space to breath

The way your refrigerator is positioned might affect how hard it has to work. Ensure that it is as far away from radiators and stoves as feasible. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as well.

Make sure your refrigerator has at least 5 cm of open space for ventilation on the sides, back, and top. Without an air gap, the refrigerator cannot expel the heat from the compressor.

Thus, your refrigerator has to work harder and longer to keep your food safe as a result of this heating up.

Cool hot food before refrigeration

Adopting wise consumption habits can significantly increase your refrigerator’s efficiency at no added cost. For example, putting hot food items directly into the fridge makes it work overtime to cool them down. And you don’t want this, do you?

Follow these guidelines to preserve your food properly:

• Let heated items cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Never keep perishable items out for longer than two hours.
• Use shallow containers to accelerate the chilling process.

Keep your fridge well organized.

You might argue that proper fridge organization is simply good housekeeping—how could it affect your appliance’s efficiency?

Well, the less time you spend searching around for food with the refrigerator door open, the less effort the condenser has to make to return the temperature to the set point. Plus, if you properly organize your refrigerator, food will last longer.

When you place the different foods in your fridge, you should always consider where they will be stored.

Airflow is vital inside a refrigerator. A crowded freezer keeps products colder, whereas a stuffed refrigerator can obstruct the airflow required to cool food adequately. To optimize efficiency, observe these fridge guidelines:

• Do not overcrowd shelves.
• Store fruits and vegetables in their proper drawers.
• Keep frequently used food items at eye level.
• Use airtight containers to avoid moisture loss and odor transfer.

You should use your refrigerator’s doors effectively. Keep condiments and beverages in the entryway, as these areas are slightly warmer and less stable in temperature than the inside shelves.

Position freezer food items to allow air circulation to maximize freezer efficiency. Label and date frozen items, and remove extra air from the packing. Use freeze-safe containers or bags.

It’s also wise to take at least one day a week to go over your fridge and properly organize it, removing any items that you don’t want there or that have expired.

Minimize door opening time.

Your fridge must work harder to maintain the desired temperature since warm air enters and cold air exits when the door is opened. To reduce this effect, put a list on the door to keep track of its contents and arrange things so they’re easily accessible.

Additionally, you should prepare for the items you need before opening the door and train your family members to choose things quickly.

Aim to keep your fridge full all the time.

At least, as much as you can, a full refrigerator needs less air to remain calm, so it doesn’t have to work as hard as one that isn’t as full.

When correctly loaded, food items keep each other cool. Your refrigerator should be able to hold at least two-thirds of its contents. If it’s too large, put water jugs in both refrigerator sections.

However, avoid packing it to overflow—effective refrigerator performance depends on enough airflow. Additionally, look for air vents and make sure nothing is obstructing them.

Parting shot

These are some of the measures you should take to make your fridge run more efficiently. If your existing unit is older than ten years, you should consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient refrigerator.

Modern refrigerators consume much less electricity than older models, which could result in significant energy bill savings. If you aren’t sure which fridge you should get, consult an experienced appliance repair Fairfax professional.

The post Tricks to Improve Your Refrigerator’s Energy Efficiency first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

From opulent party machines to basic home refrigerator units, all ice makers have one thing in common. They require frequent care and upkeep.

Without your care, they will suffer from a variety of conditions. Fortunately, many problems are preventable, and with a little effort, you can keep your machine happy and humming for years.

What are some of the things you should do to keep your appliance in top shape? Here they are as given by appliance repair professionals:

Keep it clean

Every day, ice makers transform water into pounds of dazzling, frozen cubes. So it may seem strange that they require frequent cleaning. These devices function similarly to any other food-handling appliance.  And unsanitary conditions stimulate germ proliferation, which poses health hazards.

Avoid this by regularly cleaning your ice maker.

Some manufacturers offer their formulae for cleaning the unit while others propose making your own diluted bleach solution. Regardless of what you use, the goal is to flush your ice maker’s insides with the right product. That, combined with a thorough water rinse, should prevent biological contamination.

Refrigerators with built-in ice makers and water dispensers do not need to be thoroughly cleaned. Even if this is the case with your unit, it’s a good idea to clean them thoroughly every month or so.

To accomplish this, unplug the refrigerator and empty both the freezer and the fresh food areas. Next, clean or hand wash all internal surfaces. Use mild soap and warm water instead of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Also, make sure that all items are dry before returning them.

It never hurts to keep the outside of the device clean. This will keep your ice maker looking great while also preventing dirt and stains from accumulating. In most cases, all you need is a moist cloth. A small amount of soap and warm water does wonders for removing dried spills.

Replace the filter

You can’t manufacture decent ice with unclean water. Modern refrigerators with ice makers also have a water filtration system. Typically, they put water through an activated charcoal filter to eliminate typical tap water contaminants. Chlorine, for example, can alter the taste and odor of your water and thus ice.

Many independent ice makers also use filters. Some simply improve water flavor and odor, while others can remove volatile organic substances. Many pro-filtering systems, mostly for commercial use, contain bacteriostatic properties that inhibit bacterial reproduction.

Regardless, make a note of when it’s time to replace your water filter. Also, check your handbook. You may have to replace the filter every three months, six months, or even once a year.

Be cautious of clogs.

Refrigerator ice makers are highly susceptible to clogging. Over time, the ice dispenser chutes tend to clog. Typically, broken ice particles and ice melt are the causes of the clogging.

The remedy is simple for newer refrigerator models with in-door ice makers. First, remove the ice bin and any stuck crystals. Now, using a warm, moist cloth, clean the bottom of the bin and ice chute. Replace the bin only once everything has properly dried.

Older refrigerators with ice makers placed in the freezer area require additional assistance. Inspect the ice chute for clogs. If that isn’t the issue, the cubes in the container could have bonded together. This is likely to happen if you rarely use your ice maker. To prevent this, empty the ice bin about once a week.

Descale the unit

Unless you invest in an RO (reverse osmosis) system, your ice maker will accumulate calcium deposits (sometimes called scale). Ice makers in refrigerators create substantially less ice than freestanding units (4 to 5 pounds per day). As a result, scale buildup becomes less of an issue.

Standalone ice machines produce more ice in the same period.

For example, one machine can produce up to 70 pounds of ice every day. At that rate, scale deposits can accumulate rapidly. If you do not remove them, they will damage machine parts, reducing their lifespan. To combat this, descale your appliance on a regular basis.

For a great experience, use the proprietary descaling solutions in your ice machine. The most common method is using household vinegar to treat internal scale buildup.

Give the unit room to breathe.

Standalone ice machines require the right amount of ventilation to perform optimally. Thankfully, most appliances have vents on the bottom edges (front-facing). Cool air enters from the vent’s right side, and heated air exits through the left.

To be on the safe side, make sure not to block or obstruct the venting. You also should leave at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and back of your appliance to ensure that there is effective airflow.

Keep the fridge leveled.

An uneven refrigerator might reduce the ice maker’s effectiveness, resulting in uneven ice creation or mechanical strain.

To level the fridge, position a spirit level on top of the refrigerator.  You should then check the alignment horizontally and vertically. If necessary, adjust the legs using a wrench.

Check the leveling again to guarantee stability.

You should note that a well-leveled refrigerator contributes to constant ice production and is an optimally functioning appliance.

Inspect the water lines.

A faulty water line can impair the ice maker’s performance. The good thing is that regular inspections maintain smooth water flow and prevent leaks from coming about.

To stay on the right side, check for any kinks or bends in the line that may hinder water flow. You also should inspect the unit for evidence of wear, leaks, and loose connections. During the inspections, confirm that the water reservoir valve is fully open. If the water line appears damaged or obstructed, get professional help.

Parting shot

These are some of the tricks you can use to ensure that your ice maker machine is in top working condition at all times. Even with the best care, your ice maker will break down. When this happens, move with haste to find the source of the problem and fix it before things get worse.

For a great experience, ensure that the repair tasks are performed by an experienced refrigerator ice maker repair Alexandria professional who knows what they are doing.

The post Essential Tips to Keep Your Ice Maker Clean and Running Smoothly first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

Using a dishwasher is relatively simple, right? You load it up, insert a tablet, press start, and voilà, the dishes are done.

While it’s supposed to be easy, studies show a considerable difference between novice and boss levels regarding getting the best clean from your machine.

Studies show that many homeowners not only fail to use their dishwashers properly but also improperly use their machines to the extent that they make too many mistakes that ruin their units to the extent that they have to hire dishwasher repair professionals to help fix them.

The cool thing is that there are several things you can do to properly use your dishwasher so that you get highly efficient results and, at the same time, keep your unit in top shape. The things you need to do include:

Don’t bother with expensive dishwasher tablets

Although dishwasher tablets can be costly, you don’t have to spend much money to have spotlessly clean dishes.

Some of the costlier products are indeed genuinely effective. However, for a fraction of the cost, a low-cost brand will provide you with an excellent wash.

You only need to research and find a cheaper tablet to give you the results that you are after.

Place the dishwasher tablet on the floor of the dishwasher

It may only save you approximately five seconds, but throwing your dishwashing tablet on the dishwasher floor is the best way to go about it.

The dispenser is meant explicitly for powder detergents. It does not open until after the first rinse cycle, allowing the powder to dry before being poured at the beginning of the wash cycle.

Tablets will not wash away, and the water in the first rinse cycle will begin to work on the dissolvable wrapper, so it’s ready to use as soon as the wash cycle begins, especially if you’re running a rapid program.

So save yourself the time and bother of fumbling with the nasty little dispenser door and simply lob it in. You’ll save time, plus it’s exciting just to chuck the tablet in – it feels like violating the rules, but you aren’t causing any harm.

Scrape the dishes, don’t rinse them.

Avoid rinsing your dishes to save even more time (and water, too).

In addition to using more water, rinsing your plates can cause your dishwasher to think that your plates are cleaner than they are. As a result, it may turn down the power and not clean your dishes as thoroughly. And you don’t want this, do you?

The whole point of owning a dishwasher is somewhat negated when you have to rewash your dishes after they are taken out of the machine. To clean your dishes, you spend a lot of money on a dishwasher, right? Therefore, have faith that it can manage your soiled dishes.

Simply scrape off any large pieces of food, place your dishes in the dishwasher, and let it do its work.

Have a plate with you when buying a dishwasher.

No, this isn’t only to keep you from becoming hungry while shopping for appliances. It’s so you can try out your dishwasher for size.

Before buying, you must ensure your plates will truly fit in your new dishwasher. Also, if you wash your wine glasses in the dishwasher, bring one along to ensure it fits.

You should note that some dishwashers feature adjustable-height top baskets, which allow you to change the rack height to accommodate larger plates. An ‘easy-lift top basket’ is the best version; it will enable you to adjust the height while the dishwasher is filled, so you won’t have to unload it to fit that final plate.

They come particularly handy for dinner gatherings where larger platters have been used or if you forget to bring a plate when shopping for a dishwasher.

Properly stack your dishes.

Dishwasher stackers can be divided into two categories: chaotic and perfectionist. In most cases, the careless stacker frustrates the perfectionist while unaware of it.

You can optimize your stack style when you’re (inevitably) re-stacking the dishwasher, but you might not be able to influence the habits of your other stackers.

Consider water flow. You want to ensure that water can easily reach all dirty surfaces.

This implies that the business end faces inward, the larger items are on the outside, and the smaller items are toward the center.

And make sure the dishes are separated – they should not be spooning.

Leave the door open after a cycle.

Between washes, you should leave the dishwasher door slightly open.

If you close the door, the dishwasher won’t be able to dry out, so you could end up with mold and bad smells. And you don’t want this, do you?

Additionally, the rubber seals will constantly be compressed while the door is tightly closed, which may alter their shape and, consequently, their capability to seal the unit.

Leaving the door open after a wash will save you a lot of work later on and ensure that your dishwasher is always in top condition and smells fresh.

Clean the filters

You probably realize you should do this. But, honestly, who wants to shove their fingers into a slimy Hellmouth of sludge, meat muck, and mushy beans?

The same applies to picking trash out of the spray arms’ tiny openings; it is nasty and laborious.

You must take the plunge at least once a month to keep your dishwasher clean and unclogged, even though it’s an ick factor.

Cleaning your dishwasher filter is up there with going to the dentist and doing your tax return: no one wants to do it, but it’s part of life.

Additionally, things will go more smoothly if you stay on top of things, just like with dentists and taxes. Clean dishes and a contented dishwasher are the results of a clean filter.

Do your future self a favor and stay on top of filter cleaning so you never have to find out how disgusting a blockage can be.

You can do the work by yourself, but if you don’t have the time or aren’t comfortable doing the job, you can always hire appliance repair Springfield professionals to help you out.

The post The Ultimate Dishwasher Hacks You Didn’t Know You Needed first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

500,000 LG Electric Ranges Recalled Due to Fire Hazard – Check If Yours Is Affected

At Sarah’s Appliance Repair, our priority is keeping our customers informed and safe when it comes to their home appliances. LG has recently issued a recall affecting approximately 500,000 electric ranges due to a fire hazard. If you own an LG range, read on to see if your model is affected and learn what steps to take.

Why Are These Ranges Being Recalled?

The recall involves LG Slide-In and Freestanding Electric Ranges with front-mounted knobs. These knobs can be accidentally activated by humans or pets, potentially leading to fires.

 

Incident Reports:

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received at least 86 reports of unintentional activation.
• Over 28 fires have been linked to these ranges.
• Five fires caused extensive property damage totaling over $340,000.
• At least eight injuries, including burns, have been reported.
• Three fires resulted in pet fatalities.

Which Models Are Affected?

LG has identified the following models as part of the recall. The model number can be found inside the oven door or storage drawer at the bottom of the oven.

Model Number	Serial No. (From)	Serial No. (To)
LDE4411ST	607KMXXXXXXX	807KMXXXXXXX
LDE4413ST	506KMXXXXXXX	408KMXXXXXXX
LDE4413BD	606KMXXXXXXX	901KMXXXXXXX
LSE4611ST	607KMXXXXXXX	206KMXXXXXXX
LSE4611BD	704KMXXXXXXX	704KMXXXXXXX
LSE4613ST	510KMXXXXXXX	106KMXXXXXXX
LSE4613BD	604KMXXXXXXX	106KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6337D	102KMXXXXXXX	304KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6337F	102KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6331F	201MMXXXXXXX	312MMXXXXXXX
LSEL6331F	310KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6333F	107MMXXXXXXX	311MMXXXXXXX
LSEL6333F	308KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6333D	107MMXXXXXXX	312MMXXXXXXX
LSEL6333D	309KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6335D	102KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LSEL6335F	102KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX
LTE4815BM	802KMXXXXXXX	001KMXXXXXXX
LTE4815BD	802KMXXXXXXX	207KMXXXXXXX
LTE4815ST	801KMXXXXXXX	205KMXXXXXXX
LRE4215ST	601KMXXXXXXX	903KMXXXXXXX
LTEL7337F	206KMXXXXXXX	312KMXXXXXXX

What Should You Do If Your Range Is Affected?

LG is offering a free warning sticker and instructions on how to use the Control Lock or Lock Out feature to prevent accidental activation.

How to Check If Your Range Is Affected

• Visit LG’s Recall Website: https://lgecares.com/rangerecall
• Call LG at 800-399-3265 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET)
• Email LG at [email protected]

LG has also released an instructional video explaining how to use the Control Lock feature: Watch it here.

Safety Tips for LG Range Owners

Until you receive your warning label and instructions, consider these safety measures:

• Keep children and pets away from the range knobs.
• Always check that knobs are turned off before leaving home or going to bed.
• Do not place objects on the cooktop when it is not in use.

Where Were These Ranges Sold?

These LG ranges were sold at major retailers including Best Buy, Costco, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other appliance stores nationwide, as well as online at LG.com. The affected models were available for purchase between 2015 and January 2025, with prices ranging from $1,400 to $2,650.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

If you own an LG electric range, we strongly encourage you to visit the recall website and check if your model is affected. Taking immediate action can help prevent potential fire hazards and ensure your home’s safety.

The post LG Recalls Electric Ranges Due to Fire Hazard appeared first on Appliance Repair New Mexico.

If your refrigerator is too warm, it’s quite normal to feel a little alarmed, especially if you’ve been keeping some delicious perishables chilled there. Therefore, you might question why your refrigerator isn’t as cold as it once was when you went inside.

Well, there are plenty of reasons why your fridge might not be as cold as you may want it to be, and there are a number of things you can do to fix it. Some of the things you can do, as given by fridge repair professionals, include:

Quickly fix the appliance

Finding a quick and simple solution to your refrigerator’s cooling issue should be your initial course of action. When it comes to keeping their refrigerators cool, many homeowners make plenty of mistakes. The first involves changing the setting, while the second one consists of obstructing the freezer’s cold airflow. To fix the unit, you need to:

Modify the temperature setting.

Locate the temperature setting first. This should be a knob or switch that you turn to show the proper temperature inside your refrigerator. There’s always a chance that someone loaded or unloaded anything from the fridge and accidentally changed the setting. Make sure the thermostat is colder than it was by adjusting it between the mid-cold and the coldest settings.

Clear the Compartment Vents.

The next item to check is your vents. Cold is created beneath or near the freezer and directed through a vent between the freezer and refrigerator chambers. If this vent is clogged, cold air cannot move into the refrigerator, and the temperature may be too high. This can also lead to the freezer being excessively cold or not defrosting correctly.

Make sure the vent is clear on all sides. Remove bulky boxes, bagged items, and any frost that has accumulated on the vent.

Fix the faulty components.

Once you’ve ruled out any simple causes for your warm fridge, it’s time to investigate mechanical problems. A variety of systems keep your fridge cold, and numerous small-to-medium repairs can make a difference or solve the problem.

Align the Doors

One possibility is that your door isn’t correctly positioned. If the door does not close properly, chilly air escapes. Your fridge will use more electricity to stay cool, and it will most likely be warmer than necessary.

The first place to look is the door alignment. Remove all heavy items from your door and inspect the hinge alignment. Tighten your hinges to provide a more aligned seal.

Clean the coils.

Another common issue is with your condenser coils. The coils radiate cold, and air is pumped over them to cool the freezer and refrigerator. If the coils are covered in dust, the cold cannot reach the air and, hence, the fridge. You can clean the coils with a towel or a special condenser brush.

Replace the thermistor.

The thermistor is your defrost thermometer, which monitors how cold the freezer and refrigerator are and cycles the chilling process accordingly. If your thermistor fails, your refrigerator cannot accurately regulate its temperature. If the thermistor fails to function properly, you must replace it.

Change the circulation fan.

Your refrigerator is equipped with two fans. The first is crucial since it blows air over your condenser coils. The circulation fan between the freezer and refrigerator sections, however, is the one that is most likely to result in a warm refrigerator.

The fan is necessary to force cold air from one compartment to another. You need to access the fan by removing the inside panels to replace it if it breaks.

Ensure that the condenser fan motor has not stopped.

Unplug your refrigerator and locate the condenser fan motor, which is normally located on the lower back of the fridge. Remove the access panel. Check to see if the fan can move freely and clear any debris that may be obstructing the fan blades.

Also, look for signs of wear and tear on the fan. If there are any physical concerns, you will have to replace it. If you are familiar with electrical work, you can use a multimeter to examine the condenser fan motor for any difficulties with the electric supply. If you have a problem, get in touch with a refrigerator repair specialist for assistance.

Fix the Defrost Assembly.

Finally, you may need to repair your defrost sensors, timer, or other components of the assembly. A freezer that overfrosts or defrosts too frequently can produce a warm refrigerator.

Clever tricks

If your fridge is in good working order (or you are waiting for a new part to come), there are a few tactics you can use to make it cooler inside and keep it chilly while running. These are ingenious fridge management tactics that trap extra cold within the fridge and build cold batteries that will last even when your fridge is turned off or left open.

These strategies include:

Stock the refrigerator.

Stock your refrigerator with food. The more food that is cooled, particularly wet or thick food, the colder you can keep in the fridge. The excess contents work as cold batteries. So, if the refrigerator is open or does not keep a cool air temperature, thick, cold foods can help.

Cool gallons of liquid

These also make wonderful cold batteries. Keep a gallon of orange or apple juice in the refrigerator to improve your health and fridge function. If you need to leave your fridge mostly empty, keep a couple of gallon jugs of water inside as cold batteries.

Defrost regularly.

Finally, make sure your refrigerator remains defrosted. If your refrigerator does not have a defroster, manually defrost it before frost forms on the vents. If you have a defroster, make sure it works properly.

Parting shot

Keeping your refrigerator cold is easier than you think. Maintain your refrigerator, keep the door closed, and fix any broken parts along the route.

While there are a number of things you can do, such as placing liquids in the fridge, there are a number of issues that require you to hire professionals. When this happens, you should always hire appliance repair Northern VA experts who know what they are doing.

The post How Do I Make My Fridge Run Cold? first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

The days of randomly selecting your cycle and loading your laundry into a machine with a detergent that is not proportioned correctly are long gone. To avoid issues and ensure that you don’t keep hiring a washer repair professional now and then to fix your unit, you need to use your unit correctly.

To help you out, here is a guide on how to properly use your machine to conserve energy and avoid issues:

Sort the clothes into categories.

The first step is to separate your laundry into different categories according to the kind and color of the fabric. To prevent destroying your materials, you should also look for washing instructions on the care label of every item of clothing.

You’ll most likely come across a lot of statements like “delicate wash,” “cold wash only,” or “wash with like colors.” You should sort all of the laundry into similar groups based on color and washing instructions: denim with denim, lights with lights, whites with whites, and darks with darks.

Be sure to consider each garment’s weight as well. For instance, you should keep denim and heavier materials (such as canvas) together and wash them separately because they can easily harm more delicate fabrics.

Noting which items need to be hung or laid flat to dry and which should be tumble-dried later.

Be sure to give your most delicate pieces of laundry extra attention: to avoid damage, wash them by hand, in a mesh bag, or on the delicate cycle.

Choose the correct washing cycle.

You need to choose the appropriate cycle setting. While cold water can make whites appear dingy, warm water can rapidly and easily shrink or damage clothing that is supposed to be washed cold.

Which temperature to use should be indicated on your clothing labels, but it’s crucial to understand the specifics of each choice. The meanings of the three most prevalent cycle types are listed below.

Delicates: This cycle has less agitation and a slow spin speed. Even if your machine automatically sets the temperature to warm, manually adjust it because delicates typically require washing in cold water.

Regular wash: This cycle is designed for clothing typically heavy to normal weight, such as denim, cotton, t-shirts, and towels. It has a high spin speed and medium to vigorous agitation.

Although your machine may come with a warm or cold temperature option by default, washing colors on cold and whites on warm or hot is usually advised. (Remember: Cool Colors, White Heat.)

Permanent or Perm Press: This cycle combines slow and quick movements. Slow spin speed (to avoid creases) and rapid agitation (to remove dirt and stains). It is designed for synthetic materials that require a thorough cleaning but are prone to wrinkling, such as polyester or nylon.

Remember to use a cycle that protects your clothing and maintains maximum cleanliness.

Set the proper water temperature.

Using the proper water setting in your washer can make a massive difference in washing. Hot water, for example, sanitizes and kills germs more effectively, but it might shrink your garments, discolor your textiles, set some stains, and consume significantly more energy.

Therefore, save hot water washes for bedding, bath and kitchen towels, durable textiles, and anything too dirty. Use warm water for dark colors, the permanent press cycle, and pretty filthy loads.

Finally, use cold water in the delicate cycle for delicate laundry materials with potentially bleedable dyes or clothing that isn’t too unclean. You can save energy and help the environment by washing your clothes in cold water, which is the gentlest way to do it.

Add the right detergent.

See your washer’s manual before adding your preferred detergent and fabric softener to determine which goes where. Because too much laundry detergent might lead to issues, check the back of the box and any labels on your washing machine to determine how much you should use. The amount required varies depending on the load size and type of washing machine you use.

Add detergent before loading your soiled laundry unless your washing machine’s instructions specify otherwise. Don’t add more detergent than necessary; keep it below the fill line indicated on the cup.

This is especially crucial if you use a high-efficiency washing machine, which uses less water than earlier models, or a concentrated detergent.

During the wash cycle, extra detergent produces more suds, which raises the tub’s dirt, smells, and bacteria. This leaves a residue that might make your next load of clothes look dingy, fade colors, and attract more dirt.

Use as little detergent as necessary for the best cleaning because residue buildup can also encourage the growth of bacteria and odors.

Load the machine properly.

You need to load your clothing in the washing machine properly. As a rule of thumb, avoid packing the machine too full, which could prevent the garments from getting the proper wash. Inaccurate numbers may also result in damage and operational issues.

Clothing that is very tightly packed becomes wrinkled and only half clean. When there are too many items in the machine, there is less space for water, which reduces water circulation and restricts how well the machine can clean.

Inside the machine, the clothes should be spread out evenly and loosely. The washer tub shouldn’t be more than three-quarters full, even with a heavy load of washing.

Avoid packing garments past the final row of holes at the front (the row nearest the door) of front-loading washing machines. And don’t put clothing on a traditional top-loader over the agitator.

Fabrics might be damaged if the heavy load rubs against the agitator. Overloading is the most common cause of “walking” washing machines, which shift out of place and become unbalanced during spin cycles.

You should note that consistent overloading might distort the washer’s frame or harm the motor, necessitating repair or replacement from an appliance repair Springfield professional.

You should be ultra-cautious about overloading and if you have to hire a repair professional, ensure they are experienced and know what they are doing. You don’t want someone who causes more problems than were originally there.

The post What Is the Correct Way to Use a Washer? first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

Do you have a glass or ceramic cooktop you are proud to own? Cooking can be a breeze with these sleek, contemporary appliances, but they also need special care to stay brand new. You should note that you risk having a stove covered in stains and food buildup if you don’t give your cooktops regular care and attention.

Thankfully, according to cooktop repair professionals, there are numerous ways to maintain the brand-new appearance of your cooktop. Although there is no assurance that these suggestions will keep your cooktop safe, they can make a significant difference. These ways include:

Be cautious of the cookware you use

You should take extra care to select cookware that won’t harm the smooth surface of a ceramic or glass cooktop. As a rule of thumb, never use cookware made of ceramic or stoneware with rough, unpolished bases. Avoid placing dishes on the cooktop while removing them to cool, and keep those parts in the oven.

Do you have a favorite cast iron skillet? Regretfully, you must keep it away from your burner. Any movement of a cast iron pot or pan on the cooktop can cause scratches because cast iron cookware is often very rough. And you don’t want this, do you?

Lastly, it is not wise to use pans or skillets with rounded edges. A rounded edge may result in uneven heat distribution, subjecting the glass or ceramic to needless stress. When your old cookware starts to warp, replace it with new cookware that lies relatively flat.

Be ultra-cautious when handling your cookware.

Now that you know you have the correct cookware, it’s critical to manage it carefully to maintain the brand-new appearance of your stovetop. Don’t drag heavy pots, pans, and plates across the cooktop.

Remember that cookware can scrape if dragged, even a short distance. Move your pots and pans to a different part of the cooktop to lessen the chance of scratches.

Make sure the bottoms of your pots and skillets are spotless before cooking. Electric stovetops frequently have rings or other stains that are exceedingly challenging to remove with a scrub.

This is often caused by oil accumulation on the bottom of the cookware, which can cook into the glass or ceramic when heated. By keeping your cookware clean, you can avoid wasting a lot of time and effort cleaning your stovetop.

Don’t spill while cooking.

Even though there are several ways to clean an electric stovetop, you should still avoid spills when cooking. Spills can quickly become hot and adhere to glass or ceramic surfaces, making cleanup difficult.

When boiling or cooking anything that contains sugar, exercise extra caution. Sugar is especially harmful to electric cooktops because the molecules attach to the glass as they cool, damaging the cooktop’s surface. You should be particularly cautious when working on white or light gray cooktops. When you have spills of sugar or any other material, clean them up immediately.

Be cautious of heat

Remember that the high heat may cause unpleasant chemical reactions in the glass. As such, when using your stovetop, follow a few general guidelines.

Never, even momentarily, set anything cumbersome or stand on top of a glass stove. At first, the glass might seem to support the weight, but as the cooktop heats up, the surface will expand and may shatter or crack. And you don’t want this.

You should also never set hot glass bakeware on a smooth cooktop to cool. Instead, place it on a trivet or dry towel. A heated and cool surface coming into direct contact could shatter either piece of glass.

Clean your cooktops properly.

Sometimes, baked-on food is inevitable, no matter how carefully you use your glass or ceramic stove. To keep your surfaces clean, you have to clean them. To help you out, here are tips on how to go about it:

Establish a weekly routine for cleaning the cooktop. Sprinkle baking soda on top of the white vinegar sprayed on the cooktop. Allow the mixture to operate for around fifteen minutes before wiping it away with a fresh towel soaked in hot water.

The chemical reaction that happens when alkaline baking soda and acidic vinegar combine can loosen most baked-on meals.

Scrubbing deeply embedded stains with a toothbrush and baking soda toothpaste can occasionally remove them. However, because baking soda is relatively abrasive and can scratch the glass, do not scrape the entire cooktop.

Don’t use industrial abrasive cleaners or cleaning pads to clean your glass cooktop, as they can damage them.

If used immediately after each cooking session, regular grease-cutting dish soap sprayed with a non-abrasive sponge usually wipes up spilled food from a glass cooktop. Before proceeding, make sure the cooktop is completely cool.

You can also use a sharp razor blade to scrape away small areas of baked-on food. When using it ensure that the blade’s edges don’t scratch the glass.

You should note that you can easily remove glass cooktop stains with a Magic Eraser.

Use a solution of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and Dawn dish soap to remove stubborn stains.

For cleaning ceramic/glass cooktops, an ordinary window-glass cleaner frequently works just as well as specialty cooktop cleansers. After cleaning, be sure to rinse the cooktop well.

Parting shot

A clean cooktop looks great and works better, enhancing the pleasure of cooking. These guidelines will help you maintain a spotless kitchen and maximize the performance of your equipment.

You can do most of the work, but if you notice an issue with your appliance, don’t try to fix it, as you will probably cause more problems than were there.

For example, if everything seems to be in place, but your cooktop isn’t cooking, or you feel it’s consuming more energy than it should, let an experienced appliance repair Fairfax professional look at the problem.

When hiring professionals, ensure they are experienced and know what they are doing. You don’t want someone who makes the problem worse than it already is, do you?

The post Tricks to Keep Your Glass/Ceramic Cooktops in Top Shape first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair

Your refrigerator is the house’s workhorse, keeping food chilled or frozen throughout the day and night. According to HomeAdvisor, hiring refrigerator repair professionals now and then to repair your unit can be expensive. The good news is that you can save money by fixing the problem yourself.

The most common refrigerator problems are leaks, loud noises, cooling troubles, and ice makers that don’t operate properly. As a homeowner, you can troubleshoot these frequent refrigerator problems with simple equipment such as a manual screwdriver and a cordless drill, as well as other readily available and inexpensive parts.

To shed more light on the issue, here are some of the most common refrigerator problems and how to fix them:

Leaking unit

Do you have water on your kitchen floor? What about pools that form on the interior bottom of the refrigerator? You have a leaking refrigerator. The good news is that leaky refrigerators are relatively simple to fix because there are just a few likely causes of the problem: door gaskets, defrost drains, and drain pans.

If the soft rubber-like door gaskets are the problem and they fail to seal properly, water may seep from the bottom. You need to use warm, soapy water to clean the seal and any refrigerator sections it comes into contact with.

If that doesn’t work, replace the door gaskets completely.

You also should check to see if the defrost drain leading out of the freezer is plugged. If this is the case, remove any obvious impediments. You should use hot water to break up any remaining obstructions in the tube.

The drain pan at the bottom of the refrigerator may also be so full that water is spilling out. If you are having this problem, you need to clear the drain pan of water. After removing the drain pan, clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasives.

If the drain pan smells bad or has mold patches, mix a 1:10 bleach solution with warm water. Ensure that you rinse and dry the pan before replacing it.

Extremely loud refrigerator

Refrigerators generate sounds that often come from ice clattering into the storage bin and refrigerant hissing through lines. You should note that both of these sounds are expected and usual sounds. So, if you have them, you have nothing to worry about.

While this is the case, you should note that sometimes the unit makes weird noises. Many people have the impression that these noises are common with old appliances, but this isn’t the case. Even new refrigerators can make weird noises.

The most common noises are buzzing, humming, whirring, and vibrating noises. If your unit is making any of these noises, you should move with haste and fix them as soon as possible.

Your fridge has leveling legs. As your home ages and your kitchen floorboards sag, the refrigerator needs to be balanced again. The fridge might be making weird noises due to the legs being imbalanced.

You should use a wrench to turn the legs. For the best outcome, ensure that the doors close on their own when opened halfway (45 degrees).

You should adjust the legs with the door halfway open and continue until the door swings close.

You can also order special dense foam mats and place them under the refrigerator to reduce vibration transmitted through the legs to the floor. This repair is especially useful if the people below you complain about refrigerator noise. You’ll need to place anti-vibration pads under each of the fridge’s four feet.

Ask a helper to tip the refrigerator back while you insert the pads, and then repeat on the opposite side.

Do not stand on the tipped side, as the fridge may tip over on you.

The fan distributes air from the coils to keep the temperature consistent. In some cases, the fan may be rattling due to old or broken rubber grommets. Grommets are inexpensive, and you can buy them online. The evaporator fan is accessible from inside your freezer compartment.

What you should do is unplug the device and remove all goods and shelves from the freezer. Remove the fan from the freezer by opening the access door at the back with a screwdriver.

You also should remove the old grommets and replace them with new ones. Once you are done, replace the fan and tighten the screws.

The refrigerator is too cold or freezing over.

You want your refrigerator and freezer to stay cold. But is it becoming too much? After you’ve tried readjusting the thermostat, here are some alternative fixes.

Cold air may be constantly pouring into the chamber, unregulated by a damper that remains open. The thermostat controls the damper, which is placed between the cooling and freezing compartments.

You can easily buy refrigerator thermostats online. Find your model number on the inside or back of your door, and then order a compatible thermostat.

You should unplug the fridge first, then open the cooling compartment. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the top cover of the cooling chamber (inside the box). Usually, only a few screws hold this in place.

Use the same screwdriver to remove the plastic control assembly cover.

The lid is fastened to the refrigerator with wires, so lift it cautiously. The thermostat will be a bronze-colored metal device connected by copper wires and a plastic capillary tube.

You can find it useful to photograph the wire arrangement so that you can replicate it with the new thermostat. Pull the wires straight out by hand, then remove the tube.

The new thermostat installation is a one-to-one replacement with two black wires doubled up. It is connected to one terminal, one orange wire, and one green ground wire.

You should attach the capillary tube and then replace the assembly covers with the appropriate screws.

Parting shot

These are some of the most common problems that your refrigerator might have. While you can fix some of the issues, you should note that sometimes the problems are complex. If this is the case with your unit, you should let experienced appliance repair Northern VA professionals handle it.

The post Common Fridge Problems and How to Fix Them first appeared on HVAC Repair, appliance repair. The post appeared first on Express Appliance Repair