When your favorite appliance breaks down, it can feel like the world is turning upside down. Knowing the most common issues can help you fix minor problems yourself—or know when it’s time to bring in a pro. Here are the top 10 most common appliance problems homeowners face, along with actionable advice.
1. Refrigerator Not Cooling
- Possible Causes: Dirty condenser coils, faulty thermostat, broken compressor
- DIY Fixes: Clean coils, ensure vents aren’t blocked
- Call a Pro If: It’s still not cooling after basic checks
2. Washer Won’t Spin
- Possible Causes: Overloaded drum, broken belt, lid switch issues
- DIY Fixes: Rebalance the load, check lid switch
- Call a Pro If: Loud noises or standing water persist
3. Dryer Not Heating
- Possible Causes: Blown thermal fuse, bad heating element, clogged vent
- DIY Fixes: Check power supply, clean vent hose
- Call a Pro If: No heat despite airflow
4. Dishwasher Not Draining
- Possible Causes: Clogged drain, dirty filter, faulty pump
- DIY Fixes: Clean the filter, remove drain obstructions
- Call a Pro If: Motor needs replacement
5. Oven Not Heating Properly
- Possible Causes: Broken bake element or igniter
- DIY Fixes: Inspect elements for burns or breaks
- Call a Pro If: You smell gas or can’t replace the parts
6. Microwave Won’t Turn On
- Possible Causes: Blown fuse, door switch failure
- DIY Fixes: Check outlet and plug
- Call a Pro If: Internal fuses need replacing (dangerous voltage inside)
7. Stove Burner Won’t Light
- Possible Causes: Clogged igniter, gas supply issue
- DIY Fixes: Clean igniter with a brush
- Call a Pro If: No gas flow or spark after cleaning
8. Ice Maker Not Working
- Possible Causes: Frozen water line, broken inlet valve
- DIY Fixes: Thaw line, check water filter
- Call a Pro If: Mechanical parts are damaged
9. Garbage Disposal Jammed
- DIY Fixes: Press reset button, use Allen wrench to unjam manually
- Call a Pro If: It hums but doesn’t turn even after reset
10. Noisy Appliances
- Possible Causes: Worn bearings, loose belts, unbalanced loads
- DIY Fixes: Tighten parts, rearrange load
- Call a Pro If: Noise gets louder over time
Conclusion
Not every problem requires a technician, but knowing when to get help can save you from bigger, costlier issues. When in doubt, trust the pros. Appliance Repairman provides reliable, affordable repair services for all major home appliances. Schedule your appointment today!
