Be Aware of the Signs Your Clothes Dryer Might Need a Repair

Does your clothes dryer need repaair?

For many people, a clothes dryer is an important part of their laundry routine. When your dryer starts to experience trouble, life at home can become a bit more hectic. Here are signs that it’s time to call an appliance repair specialist.

Clothes Are Too Hot

If your clothes are extremely hot to the touch, this likely indicates a big problem with your dryer. The issue could stem from a few different things. A bad thermostat can cause overheating. You also shouldn’t rule out a defective heating element. Clogged ductwork can also lead to higher than normal temperatures.

Burning Smell

Upon noticing a burning smell, don’t wait to seek dryer repair. It’s a potential fire hazard. Aside from getting your clothes burned, there’s a chance for the fire to spread to other areas of your home. In fact, there are nearly 3,000 dryer-related fires a year. Lint trapped in the exhaust tube could be the culprit. However, the burning scent could also be from a bad motor. This is especially true if you’ve had the dryer for more than 10 years.

Drying Takes a Long Time

Waiting a long time for your clothes to dry can be a big inconvenience. This issue can also cause your dryer to consume more energy. To avoid experiencing a spike in your electrical bill, contact a professional. While the solution may something simple like cleaning the dryer’s lint tray, the problem could also be a disconnected duct.

Drum Won’t Spin

Understandably, a drum that won’t spin tends to cause immediate concern. However, don’t be so quick to send your dryer to an early graveyard. It could have some good years left. The most common cause is a broken belt. If this is the case, a technician can quickly get your dryer up and running. You’ll be able to avoid the expense of buying a brand-new unit. Look forward to saving a lot of extra money.

Dryer Won’t Turn On

This is the most obvious sign your dryer needs a repair. Banging on the dryer certainly won’t fix the problem. Your appliance needs to be inspected and serviced by a professional. From a blown thermal fuse to a bad starter switch, there are a number of different reasons why your dryer won’t turn on.

Who can fix my clothes dryer?

If your clothes dryer is acting up, or worse, not acting at all, give the repair appliance repair specials at Dave’s Appliance Service a call at (262) 253-2200. Dave will get your clothes dryer working as good as new.

Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any repair service.

Photo by Valerie Everett from Flickr using Creative Commons license.

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Typically, you don’t notice a washer filling with water. It happens so quickly that you never really keep track of how long it takes to do so. However, when a washer is filling slowly, you will tend to notice. Your laundry may take longer or you may notice that your clothing is not getting washed correctly. However, when a washer is not getting filled quickly, it is rarely a problem with the actual washer. Instead, it is more likely a problem with the water source. Here is what you can do to fix it.

Check That The Valves are Open

If you have shut off the water to the washer to do repairs or even install a new washer, then the water valves may not be fully open. If that is the case, your washer will not be able to get enough water quickly. Makes sure the valves can turn no further into the “ON” position. You will also want to consider the possibility that your water pressure is too low as well.

Check The Water Inlet Filter

Water that is taken in through the hoses is filtered before it gets to your washer. In the drain hoses, by the attachment to the water inlet valves, there are filters. Remove the hoses and check these filters as they can become clogged. This is distinctly more of a possibility if you use hard water in your home.

Check the Hoses

If the hoses connected to your washer are all twisted up or have even slight kinks, it can affect water flow. Remove these hoses and either try to unkink them or replace them. For hoses that were twisted for so long, you may not be able to get them back into workable shape.

If you can’t quite figure out this problem or suspect something more serious is wrong, you may want a professional to help you figure it out quickly. For those appliance issues, contact us today to see what Jerry’s Appliance Repair can do for you.

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Cleaning your oven is a necessary chore, but it doesn’t have to be a painful one. Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you clean your oven without hassle!

What Should You Use to Clean Your Oven?

You can buy a traditional spray oven cleaner, or for a more natural option, you can use baking soda and vinegar! Just mix a 1/2 cup of baking soda with about 3 tablespoons of water to make a paste and have some vinegar in a spray bottle on hand to create foam when needed.

You’ll want paper towels or old newspapers, and damp cloth rags. If you’re using a chemical cleaner, you’ll need rubber cleaning gloves, safety glasses, and a large plastic garbage bag. You may also need a microfiber sponge to scrape off excess buildup.

How to Clean Your Oven in 5 Simple Steps

1) Take everything out of your oven

First, make sure your oven is turned off and cool. Take the racks out and place some paper towels or newspaper on the floor under the oven.

2) Clean the inside of your oven

Put on safety glasses and gloves if you’re using a chemical cleaner. Then, spread your oven cleaner of choice all over the inside. Don’t cover your oven’s heat source, whether it’s electric or gas. Let the oven cleaner sit 20 to 30 minutes for store-bought oven cleaner or 10 to 12 hours for baking soda.

3) Clean the oven racks

While the oven cleaner sits, it’s time to clean the racks!

For a conventional oven cleaner, take the racks outside, spray them, and let them sit in a large garbage bag for as long as the label says.

For baking soda paste, place the racks in your sink. Spread the paste and add vinegar. Wait for the mixture to finishing foaming, then fill the sink with water and let the racks sit for 10 to 12 hours.

4) Wipe down your oven

Once your oven cleaner is done sitting, wipe down the oven with a damp cloth. If you have a lot of buildup, use a microfiber sponge or other abrasive tool to scrape out the grime. For tough baking soda spots, apply vinegar and wipe away the foam.

5) Rinse and replace the racks

Rinse out the racks and scrub them with a cloth rag or abrasive sponge. Replace them in the oven.

And that’s it! Your oven is now clean and ready for use!

If your oven needs more than just cleaning, contact Sarah’s Appliance Repair and we’ll repair it for you!

The post How to Clean Your Oven (and What to Use to Clean It) appeared first on Appliance Repair New Mexico.

Microwaves are extremely convenient. They are faster and more energy-efficient than a traditional oven. When your microwave starts to malfunction, you’ll miss being able to prepare quick meals and snacks. Here are some signs you might need microwave repair:

1. Food Takes Longer to Heat

The main advantage of a microwave is speed. When this appliance isn’t working properly, your food may take longer to cook. Frustration causes some people to prematurely purchase a brand-new unit. However, you can save a lot of money by getting your microwave repaired. Damaged seals could be causing your microwave to lose heat.

2. Strange Noises

Everyone knows the sound of a microwave. If you begin to hear strange noises, it’s time to call a Milwaukee microwave repair technician. While the extra clatter could stem from the turntable’s drive motor, you could also be experiencing a defective magnetron. This component is responsible for generating the heat that cooks food. A failing magnetron often leads to a loud humming noise.

3. Controls Are Unresponsive

As your microwave ages, its controls are more likely to stop working. This is especially true for the microwaves that feature a touchpad. While some buttons may simply stop working, others will gradually become less responsive. A repair tech can fix this issue. The root cause is likely a worn control board, which needs to be replaced.

4. You See or Smell Smoke

When using your microwave, splattering food and aluminum foil can definitely create smoke. However, certain mechanical problems can also cause fumes. A waveguide clogged with grease may be the culprit. This is a potential fire hazard that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. To be on the safe side, the best approach is to contact a Milwaukee appliance professional before you have to call 9-1-1!!

5. Microwave Just Stops Working

It’s not uncommon for an old appliance to stop working. If your microwave is less than 10 years old, it can likely be repaired. Your problem could be a blown fuse or a damaged door. The wiring needs to be inspected as well. Before you head out to purchase a new unit, first get it checked out by an experienced microwave oven technician from Dave’s Appliance Repair. Call (262) 253-2200 today.

Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any repair service.

Photo by Birdies100 from Flickr using Creative Commons license.

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Dishwashers – they’re a modern marvel. They prevent the dishes from piling up and take away the burden of washing dirty pots and pans by hand. When it’s operating efficiently, the dishwasher can be your best friend. But when something goes wrong, it can mess up your daily routine. Keeping your eye on the signs can help prevent the need for dishwasher repair in the future.

Three Major Signs You Need Dishwasher Repair:

1. The door won’t lock anymore.

If the door doesn’t lock and shut properly, the dishwasher won’t be able to run a cycle. It locks to keep the water inside and to prevent a massive puddle on the floor. Different brands and models have their own special locking mechanisms, so it’s not as simple as going to the home improvement store and buying a new part. You’ll need to have a professional inspect the appliance and make the necessary repairs.

2. The water doesn’t get hot.

If your dishes aren’t hot to the touch immediately after a cycle, chances are that the dishwasher isn’t working properly. The problem could stem from bad heating coils. Though you don’t necessarily need hot water to wash the dishes, the heat plays a major part in sanitizing your dishes and killing bacteria. If the water won’t heat up in the dishwasher, your appliance may need to be repaired or replaced.

3. It’s making very odd noises.

Dishwashers make noise from time to time, but you should contact a professional if you hear strange noises during a cycle. Odd pops, buzzes and clangs are signs that something’s wrong. It could also be an indicator of something much worse.  Who expects a Wisconsin dishwasher to start on fire? If you hear something out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for an inspection.

Should You Replace Your Dishwasher?

When you notice a significant change in the way your dishwasher functions, you should take immediate action to stop the problem from getting worse. Otherwise, you may have to get your hands dirty and wash the dishes in the sink. Get your appliance back to working order. Whether it’s a door that won’t lock or water that doesn’t get hot, contact Dave’s Appliance Service at (262) 253-2200 to learn more about how our dishwasher repair services can save you time and money.

Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any repair service.

“In use” by thesqueedler is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 

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Want to Do Some DIY Appliance Repair? Here Are a Few Tips…

When a household appliance malfunctions, you can either reach out to a local technician or choose to repair the appliance yourself. Though most homeowners are not qualified to perform major repairs, the following DIY appliance repair and maintenance techniques can save you a few dollars.

Cleaning Refrigerator Coils

You can increase your fridge’s function by regularly cleaning its coils. Clogged coils not only raise your energy bills but also shorten the compressors’ lifespan. Ideally, you should clean your refrigerator coils every year, but you can increase the frequency if your fridge is exposed to too much dust or grease.

Depending on the type of your fridge, you need to either detach the grill at the bottom or roll your fridge out from the wall to access the coils. Use a soft, bendable brush and a vacuum to thoroughly clean the coils, including the hard to reach places.

Replacing or cleaning HVAC filters

Statistics show that replacing or cleaning a clogged air filter can minimize your unit’s energy consumption by up to 15%. Some filter types are reusable, while others need to be replaced. To clean or replace your air conditioner’s filters, turn off your unit and locate the service panel. Remove the air filters from beneath the service panel. If you have reusable filters, clean them with running water and make sure your reusable filters are completely dry before reinserting them. Insert the new (or cleaned) filter back into the service panel.

Keeping Your Stove Grease-Free

When cooking oil reaches boiling point, it emits a flammable vapor. Therefore, when that oil is left to solidify, not only is the resulting grease accumulation messy and unsightly, but it can become a danger as well, particularly for gas stoves. Clean your stovetop regularly by spreading baking soda across it. Then spritz it with vinegar. Let it sit about 15-30 minutes. After letting the cleaning solution sit, scrub it and wipe it clean with a wet rag. Make sure that when you are cleaning a gas range, that you also thoroughly clean the burner and remove any grease build-up from the gas ports (where the flame comes out). You should also regularly have the stove vents professionally cleaned, as grease vapors can accumulate there.

Before commencing with your DIY repair project, check whether your appliance’s warranty will be compromised. Most manufacturers void a warranty if an appliance is opened by an unauthorized person or one without a license. Ensure you are safe by first disconnecting the appliance from the power source. Never try to move a heavy appliance by yourself as this might hurt you or cause further damage to it.

If you have an appliance that isn’t operating smoothly and you’d like some professional help, give us a call at 505-835-1927 and we’ll get it running efficiently right away.

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Modern refrigerators are engineered to last for more than a decade. However, even the best units will require servicing at some point. Here are five signs you need fridge repair:

1. Water on the Floor

When dealing with a leaky refrigerator, don’t be surprised to discover puddles on the floor. This is a problem that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. You definitely don’t want any water damage to occur. The cause of the leaking can stem from a few different issues, including a worn door seal and a clogged drain tube.

2. Spoiled Food

Prematurely spoiled food is one of the most obvious signs a fridge repair is necessary. Although you may need to simply adjust the thermostat, your refrigerator more likely has a mechanical problem. In order to prevent spoiling, the food needs to be kept at a temperature of around 40 °F. To prevent wasting money, have the refrigerator inspected by a local licensed professional.

3. Strange Noises

Refrigerators naturally have a low hum. However, take notice of any strange noises. If you start to hear a tapping or growling sound, this indicates the need for fridge repair. A defective blower motor is a common cause of loud chatter. Failing to act will only lead to an even bigger headache. You want to prevent the blower motor from completely burning out.

4. Mold and Mildew

The presence of mold and mildew is a bad sign. Not only does mold cause your refrigerator to have a bad odor, but it can also trigger allergy symptoms. Contrary to common belief, mold isn’t just caused by expired food. If the rubber seals around the doors aren’t in good condition, mildew will creep inside the refrigerator.

5. Increased Energy Consumption

Many people tend to blame their higher electrical bills on other home appliances, especially the air conditioner. However, a poorly performing refrigerator can also drain more energy. If you happen to notice other signs like odd noises and warmer temperatures, there’s an even greater chance your refrigerator is the culprit. While your refrigerator may seem to be on its last leg, simple repairs can give it a new life. Routine refrigerator maintenance, such as cleaning the condenser coils, will save you even more money in the long run.

Have you noticed any of these issues? Reach out to Dave’s Appliance Service as soon as you can by calling (262) 253-2200. We will let you know what to expect and how you should proceed. Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any repair service.

 Picture by Ian E. Abbott is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 

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The washing machine is one of modern society’s greatest conveniences. It’s an appliance that you probably take for granted until it fails to work one day. Getting a long life from your washing machine is easy. Your washing machine has several components that must work together seamlessly, and those parts will eventually wear out or stop working properly if regular maintenance isn’t done on the machine. Here are six warning signs that your washing machine needs repairs:

#1 Drum Doesn’t Fill with Water

No, your washing machine didn’t turn into a high-efficiency (HE) appliance since your last load of laundry. Although HE washers are designed to use less water than regular washing machines, your conventional washing machine’s drum must have an adequate amount of water to thoroughly clean your clothes. A washer that has a blockage will have no water or a low amount of water in its drum. A reputable washer repair technician has the tools and skills to inspect, clean, and fix washer hoses, pipes, and filters.

#2 Water Remains in the Drum

A lack of drainage is another issue that signals the need for a professional service call. When your washer finishes its wash and rinse cycles, the machine automatically drains the water from the drum. A washer that doesn’t do this may be sending you a cry for help. Your washer could have a blocked hose or pipe that prevents the water from leaving the drum at a normal rate. It could also have a damaged pump.

#3 Drum Doesn’t Move to Agitate Clothes

A stationary drum means that your dirty laundry isn’t going anywhere until you haul it off to the laundromat. Worn components such as belts, switches, clutch, and sensors are often to blame for washing machines that won’t spin.

#4 Machine Makes Loud Noises

A noisy washing machine is not uncommon, but it’s a signal that you should get the appliance checked by a service professional. Washing machine noises can be caused by an unbalanced machine. By redistributing your clothes within the machine and making sure that the appliance is on a level surface, you can stop some washer noises. If the noise persists, you may have a problem with your motor mount or drum. A certified repair technician will know how to find and fix the problem quickly and effectively.

#5 Washer Leaks Water

A washer that leaks water can cause damage to floors and promote mold growth in your home. This problem is usually caused by a worn hose or a loose water connection. Getting a washing machine service professional to inspect the appliance’s components periodically can help you to avoid the inconvenience of a leaky washing machine.

#6 Clothes Remain Wet After Completion of Wash and Spin Cycles

The ability to wring excess water from clothing after completing wash and rinse cycles is a key feature of today’s washing machines. If your washer’s spin feature isn’t working properly, you’ll have to spend extra energy drying your soggy clothes. Technicians fix this problem by checking washing machines for damaged motor couplers, clutches, and belts.

Final Words

While some washing machine problems such as an electronic control panel that won’t power on are obvious, the listed warning signs are often ignored by users as nuisances that will go away during the next wash cycle. By postponing washing machine repair work, you risk making a small problem more serious. When you call Dave’s Appliance Service at (262) 253-2200 to repair your washer, you get fast, affordable service that gets you back to living a normal life. The family-owned appliance service shop also offers same-day repairs to its customers in the Metro Milwaukee area.

Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any repair service.

The post Ignore These 6 Washing Machine Repair Warning Signs and You’ll Be at the Laundromat appeared first on Dave's Appliance Service.

We all rely heavily on the appliances in our homes. They add productivity and comfort to our lives, and we can hardly do without many of them. Unfortunately, many homeowners take their appliances for granted. They don’t give them much thought at all until they break. Repairs after major appliance failure can be costly, and many times they can be prevented entirely. Performing regular maintenance on your appliances is important. Here are a few reasons why:

Efficiency

Appliances that aren’t well maintained tend to work harder than they need to, burning more electricity or gas. A refrigerator that likes to stay cracked open burns way too much energy trying to maintain the internal temperature. A dryer with a dirty filter or a partially clogged exhaust vent is a dual problem: first, it doesn’t dry your clothes as well, but second, and more importantly, it’s a huge fire hazard. You end up running the dryer longer to get your clothes dry. This burns unnecessary energy and adds to your utility bills.

Appliance Lifespan

Maintaining your appliances helps them live longer. Not only do unmaintained appliances burn too much energy, but they also burn themselves out faster. Your blocked-up dryer works harder and hotter than it’s supposed to, which often leads to early failure. You should regularly follow the maintenance procedures printed in your appliances’ owner’s manuals. Doing so will keep them running well for longer.

Property Safety

Maintaining appliances helps keep your home and property safe. A dishwasher that’s not draining well can flood your kitchen. A refrigerator that’s running too warm can sicken your entire family. A dryer with a blocked vent can literally burn your house to the ground! FEMA says dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss every year! Maintain your appliances well to reduce the risk of appliance-related property damage.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the reasons that regular appliance maintenance is important in your home. Here at Sarah’s Appliance Repair, we can also help with maintenance as well as appliance repairs. We save you money by helping you avoid expensive replacements for your appliances. Need help with your appliance maintenance? Give us a call today at 505-835-1927!

The post The Importance of Regular Appliance Maintenance appeared first on Appliance Repair New Mexico.

Before you swing that hammer . . .

Your household appliances are essential to your life. You rely on them to prepare meals, preserve food, heat water, and launder your clothes. Appliances make life easier. When a key appliance such as your stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine stop working, it can throw you off. You will want to fix the problem as fast as possible. Instead of trying to repair your appliance yourself, here are reasons to call in an expert for appliance repair:

Safety

Appliances have multiple moving parts and are very complex. These features combined with electricity can make attempting a do-it-yourself repair very dangerous. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, large appliances resulted in 18% of all consumer electrocution deaths from 2010 to 2013. During that same time period, small appliances resulted in 12% of the reported electrocution deaths. The CPSC reports that a majority of the electrocution deaths from appliances occurred when people were trying to repair their appliances themselves. If you attempt appliance repair on your own, you could start a fire or suffer an electrical injury. A professional has the training and certification necessary to troubleshoot what is wrong and to fix your appliance in a safe manner.

Maintaining your warranty and insurance coverage

The warranties on your appliances will only cover defects during the manufacturing process. If you also have insurance for your appliances, it will not cover any damage that is caused by you. If one of your appliances stops working correctly, and you attempt to fix it yourself, you might void the warranty and your insurance coverage. If your appliance breaks down in the future, this can leave you without a remedy and you will still have to pay for a new appliance. When you hire a professional to repair your appliance, the insurance provider or warranty will cover the cost of the repair. Companies only cover repair costs when the work is completed by a certified professional.

Cost savings

Many people decide to attempt their own appliance repair because they want to save money. However, do-it-yourself repairs often cost more money instead of less. If you do not have the proper equipment and training, you can cause additional damage to your appliance. Damage that you cause can require more expensive repairs. It could also force you to purchase a new appliance to replace the one that you damaged. Why not hire a professional appliance repair person in Menomonee Falls from the start? Then you would avoid causing damage that could cost you more money.

Time savings

If your refrigerator or freezer stops working, time is of the essence. You will want to call an appliance repair person to come to your home as soon as possible. An expert repair person may be able to access parts that are needed quickly and to repair your appliance much faster. If instead you try to fix your appliance yourself, your food may spoil while you spend hours trying to fix whatever is wrong with it.

Contact Dave’s Appliance for help

If your appliance is malfunctioning or has stopped working, it is important to get help from a professional appliance repair person. Menomonee Falls based Dave’s Appliance Service has helped people in the greater Milwaukee area since 1963 to repair their appliances quickly. We repair all major brands of appliances. We are a recipient of the Angie’s List Super Service Award, so you know you’ll get great service! Contact us today to extend the life of your appliance by calling (262) 253-2200.

Ask us about our repair specials. Senior Discount: Seniors ALWAYS receive $13 off any appliance repair service in Menomonee Falls and throughout our service area.

The post Why Hire a Repairman for Your Home Appliance? appeared first on Dave's Appliance Service.