You’ve probably heard about the 1.3 million dishwashers that have been recalled by GE recently. While you may not be directly affected by the latest recalls, it’s still a good idea to look at small problems you may have with your household appliances to make sure you don’t need to replace or repair your home appliances. Sometimes, small problems with appliances may be indications of larger (more expensive) problems unless they are addressed early. Here are 5 of the most common problems with household appliances and why you might want to get them fixed as soon as possible.
1) Refrigerator: There are a few signs that your refrigerator may need some repairs. If you’re noticing that your fridge seems warmer, has been leaking and/or has small amounts of ice in the back, this is something you should look into right away. Temperature problems could be the result of a defective thermostat or something more serious like the motor. Any leaking or ice collection could be something as small as needing to clean the filter or it could be a stalling motor or pump. Many of the smaller problems could be fixed easily and cheaply with a little research and elbow grease, but you should look into these problems soon to avoid a mess on your kitchen floor and a loss of the food in your fridge.
2) Dishwasher: When it comes to the dishwasher, you may have noticed that the dishes haven’t been as clean as before or the water level is off when you start or stop the appliance. These problems could be major or minor. For example, improper water levels might be fixed simply by cleaning the drain line, but may also be the result of a failing pump, which might need to be replaced. What’s for certain is that a dishwasher could cause a lot of damage to your home if you don’t check out these small problems before they get out of hand.
3) Dryer: If your dryer is taking longer to complete a cycle than normal or if it is shaking too much, these are two tell-tale signs that you should check it out immediately. Again, these issues could be minor and require no more than a cleaning of the filters or a small stabilizer underneath the front of the appliance. However, you could also be facing a motor burning out or even a potential fire hazard. Be sure to take this seriously and only dry your clothes when your home, especially if you’re having problems already.
4) Freezer: Most of us have dealt with a freezer that had ice and condensation on the walls or leaking water. Sometimes, it’s a result of the freezer being too packed with items or the need to clean the drain and/or filter. Other times, the thermostat may need replacing or the compressor may have a fuse blown. It should be easy to find out. Simply empty out the freezer and allow it to defrost completely. From there, clean the drain and filter and if you still have problems, you’re more than likely facing a larger problem.
5) Washer: The washer is a very convenient appliance that more than likely gets quite a bit of use. The most common problems associated with them are leaking water when in use as well as a dramatic amount of shaking. Water leaking could be as simple as an overloaded washer or as dramatic as a damaged pump or hose. Shaking could be a minor wear and tear problem or an agitator that is about to go out. Look into this before you have a puddle of water all over your floor.
Do some research online and see if you can replace damaged parts. If you want to save some money, be sure to tackle small problems with your appliances before they become large and expensive problems.
Guest author Malia Anderson is a freelancer and amateur handy-woman who enjoys pottery and playing the ukelele.