Finding a reliable appliance repair service is an important part of homeownership. When your refrigerator, washing machine, dryer, dishwasher or other major appliance stops working, you need an experienced technician who can quickly diagnose the problem and complete repairs. With the right appliance repair company, you can minimize downtime and avoid the costs and hassles of replacing expensive equipment unnecessarily.
What to Look for in an Appliance Repair Company
Choosing the best appliance repair service involves several key factors:
Experience and Training
Look for companies who employ certified technicians with training on your specific appliance brand and model. Manufacturer certification and many years of hands-on experience repairing appliances indicate the technician will have the skills to accurately troubleshoot issues.
Range of Services
Choose a company that services all major household appliance types. This includes refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers and more. Companies who service a wide variety will have the capabilities and parts to fix nearly any problem.
Timely Repair
The company should provide reasonably prompt repair timelines. Look for companies who offer same-day or next-day service for at least emergency calls so you’re not stuck with a broken appliance.
Warranties
Reputable companies will stand behind their work with warranties on parts and labor. Typical coverage spans 30-90 days or longer. This protects you if the repair doesn’t resolve the issue.
Customer Service
Choose an appliance repair company known for quality customer service. This includes upfront pricing, timely communication and professional technicians who arrive when expected. Customer reviews can provide insight into service quality.
Fair Pricing
While appliance repair pricing varies by brand, age and repair complexity, the company should clearly explain their rates. Beware of companies with extremely low hourly rates, as it may reflect lack of proper licensing, training and tools.
When to Repair vs. Replace Appliances
In some cases, your faulty appliance may not be worth repairing. Consider replacing old appliances in these situations:
- Age: Once major appliances reach 10-15 years old, repair costs often exceed replacement costs. Newer models offer improved energy efficiency and features as well.
- Frequent issues: If an appliance needs multiple repairs in a short timeframe, replacement may be your most cost-effective option long-term.
- Difficult repairs: Complex issues like failed compressors or electrical problems may require extensive work better suited for a new appliance.
- Obsolete parts: Repairs requiring outdated components that are no longer manufactured often necessitate replacement.
For expensive appliances like large refrigerators, talk to your technician about repair vs. replacement costs to make the best financial decision.
Questions to Ask Potential Companies
When evaluating appliance repair services, asking the right questions is key:
- What brands and models do you have experience servicing?
- Are your technicians certified by major manufacturers?
- Do you offer service warranties on repairs? How long?
- What are your hourly rates and after-hours or weekend rates?
- How soon can you schedule a technician to arrive?
- Do you provide free estimates on repairs?
- What forms of payment do you accept?
- Are there any membership or service fees to schedule a visit?
- Do you have positive reviews from local customers?
By getting answers to these questions, you can determine if a company has the expertise, availability, pricing and track record to meet your needs.
Red Flags to Watch For
Some appliance repair companies or individual technicians may not have the skills or business practices to properly service your appliances. Watch for these red flags:
- No licensing or certification listed on website or materials
- Lack of detailed information on services and technician qualifications
- No physical business address or office listed
- Poor communication handling service calls and scheduling
- Technicians show up in personal vehicles with no company branding
- Requests for full payment upfront before any work completed
- No warranties on repair work
- Unable or unwilling to provide estimates on costs
- Poor reputation based on online reviews
While no company is perfect, the above factors indicate higher risk of shoddy workmanship, financial disputes or even scams. Reliable companies will display licenses, have formal business information available and back up their work.
Top Appliance Repair Services
When your appliances malfunction, you want them back up and running ASAP. These leading national and regional providers offer quality repair services for all major household appliances:
Mr. Appliance
With over 200 locations across North America, Mr. Appliance specializes in same-day repairs for most major brands. All technicians complete extensive training and background checks. They provide upfront pricing and offer a satisfaction guarantee on their work.
Sears Home Services
As a trusted American staple, Sears Home Services has over 15,000 technicians available for appliance repairs coast-to-coast. They handle both in- and out-of-warranty repairs on brands sold by Sears and others.
A&E Factory Service
A&E services most appliances from top brands like Whirlpool, GE, Maytag, LG, Samsung and more. No project is too big or small for their network of certified technicians.
Appliance Repair Guys
Available in select metro areas, Appliance Repair Guys technicians have over 25 years of combined experience. Their services include reasonable rates, quick response times and WARRANTIES up to one year.
Appliance Medic
With trained experts specializing in major brands like SubZero, Thermador, Bosch and Viking, Appliance Medic offers warranty-approved repairs for high-end kitchen and laundry appliances.
Appliance Repair LA
Based in Los Angeles, ARS Rescue Rooter offers same- or next-day appointments for all makes and models. Their technicians are drug-tested and background-checked for client security and peace of mind.
Finding the right appliance repair technician ensures your critical home appliances get fixed properly and safely. Consider both national chains and quality local providers with strong reputations and experienced staff. With the best appliance repair service, you can enjoy years more of dependable operation.
Common Appliance Repairs and Costs
From refrigerators to washing machines, repairs on household appliances range from simple do-it-yourself jobs to complex tasks requiring professional skills and tools. Here are some of the most common repairs and their average costs:
Refrigerator
- Compressor: $200-$500 for parts and labor
- Thermostat: $100-$250
- Fan motor: $100-$350
- Door gasket: $100-$200
Washing Machine
- Drive belt: $75-$150
- Water pump: $125-$300
- Door latch: $125-$175
- Drum bearings: $200-$350
Dryer
- Heating element: $125-$325
- Blower wheel: $150-$250
- Thermal fuse: $50-$150
- Drum rollers: $50-$150
Dishwasher
- Circulation pump: $150-$250
- Door gasket: $50-$200
- Water inlet valve: $150-$250
- Control board: $200-$400
Oven/Range
- Heating element: $150-$350
- Temperature sensor: $50-$250
- Igniter: $150-$300
- Bake/broil control: $200-$400
Labor costs generally add $50-$100 per hour on top of parts pricing. For serious appliance issues, replacement may be a better option than sinking money into difficult repairs.
DIY Appliance Repairs to Consider
While some appliance repairs like electrical issues are best left to the professionals, there are minor repairs you may be able to tackle yourself:
Refrigerator Condenser Coils
Over time, dust builds up on coils underneath and behind the fridge, reducing efficiency. Cleaning the coils annually with a vacuum hose or brush can improve performance at no cost.
Freezer Frost
Removing excess frost buildup inside the freezer 1-2 times per year keeps your freezer running optimally. Unplug the appliance and remove food first before carefully thawing frost with a hair dryer.
Dishwasher Filter
With models having internal filters, checking and cleaning this monthly filter that collects food particles saves you the cost of a service call.
Washing Machine Hoses
Inspect old rubber hoses connecting to your washer a few times yearly. At any sign of bulges, cracks or leaks, replace them yourself for under $15.
Dryer Vent Duct
Clean your dryer’s vent duct outside your home regularly as lint buildup is a fire hazard. Remove the duct to clear blockages or hire an HVAC professional if it requires roof access.
While attempting basic repairs, always unplug appliances and turn off electrical supply lines for safety. Minor fixes like replacing water lines and hose gaskets can extend the lifespan of washers and dishwashers.
How to Choose an Appliance Repair Technician
Need to troubleshoot problems with a major household appliance? Finding a qualified appliance repair technician involves a few steps:
Ask Friends and Neighbors for Referrals
Word-of-mouth recommendations from people you trust are a great starting point. Ask which technicians did a good job at fair prices.
Check Online Reviews
Search for local appliance repair companies on Google, Facebook and elsewhere. Focus on companies with consistently positive feedback across multiple sites.
Ask About Experience
Find out how long technicians have been servicing appliances and if they have expertise with your particular appliance brand.
Verify Proper Licensing
Technicians should hold current licenses required by your state and local government to legally repair appliances.
Look for Certifications
Repair personnel certified by major brands like GE, Whirlpool and Maytag have up-to-date training to work on those models.
Compare Estimates
Ask at least 2-3 companies for quotes on your appliance repair to compare rates and service fees.
Ask About Home Visits
A technician should diagnose the issue on-site before quoting repair costs. Beware companies that quote pricing sight unseen over the phone.
Get Warranty Details
The company should stand behind repairs with at least a short labor warranty of 30-90 days in case issues persist.
Confirm Availability
Ask when the technician can arrive to complete the repairs based on your schedule needs.
Doing diligent research ensures you hire a qualified local technician with the skills, experience and pricing to get your critical appliances working their best.
Questions Homeowners Commonly Ask About Appliance Repairs
Wondering when to repair vs. replace? How much it costs to fix various appliances? Other appliance repair questions homeowners often have include:
Are appliance repairs usually expensive?
Costs range widely from $50 for minor fixes up to $500+ for complex repairs. Labor adds $50-$100 per hour typically. Avoid unexpected bills by asking for estimates upfront.
Should I replace instead of repairing old appliances?
Once appliances reach 10+ years old with frequent issues, replacement often makes more economic sense long-term than sinking money into repairs.
Do I need a specialist for certain brand repairs?
Factory-certified technicians with brand-specific training are best for complex repairs on high-end brands like SubZero, Viking and Bosch.
Can I do minor repairs myself?
Basic fixes like replacing hoses, greasing parts and cleaning condenser coils may be DIY depending on your skill level. More complex repairs involving electrical and gas connections require pro skills.
How soon can I get same-day appliance repair service?
Many companies offer same-day or next-day appointments for at least emergency issues. Timeframes vary by technician availability and your geographic location.
Should I buy extended warranties for appliances?
For newer models, extended warranties are often not cost effective compared to paying for repairs yourself as issues arise. But they provide peace of mind for expensive appliances.
How can I troubleshoot problems before calling a technician?
First try basic steps like checking the power supply, resetting circuit breakers, inspecting hoses and cleaning accessible parts and filters if problems develop.
What qualifications should an appliance repair technician have?
The best technicians will have undergone brand-specific training, hold all required licenses and have multiple years of hands-on experience and good customer reviews.
Knowing when repairs or replacements make sense, what qualifications to look for, and other basics allows you to make informed appliance repair decisions.
Warning Signs You May Need an Appliance Repair
Household appliances allow busy families to cook, clean and manage their homes efficiently. But even reliable brands eventually show signs of wear and tear. Watch for these signals that your appliances need professional service:
Consistent Malfunctions
If the same issue keeps occurring despite resetting and basic troubleshooting, underlying repair needs likely exist. Persistent errors also indicate it’s time to call a technician.
Burnt Smells
Unusual burning odors from appliances often signify an electrical issue or part overheating. Unplug the device and have it serviced immediately to prevent fire risks.
Leaking Water
Refrigerator ice makers, dishwasher hoses, washing machine valves and other components can all leak over time. Leaking water leads to mold concerns and potential electric shorts.
Unusual Noises
Squealing, grinding or loud knocking emanating from appliances typically mean a fan, motor or other components have become loose or worn out.
Door Seal Damage
Punctures, wear and warping on refrigerator and oven door gaskets throws off the air seal, reducing efficiency. Damaged seals need replacement.
Power Surges
Appliances that abruptly power off or on can signal failing capacitors, compressors, thermostats or wiring issues that require diagnosis.
Rust Formation
Rust inside washers, on the bottom of fridges or elsewhere eats away essential components. Rust signifies moisture infiltration and metal deterioration.
Clogged Vents/Ducts
Blocked dryer and exterior refrigerator vents/coils cause the appliance to run inefficiently and overwork components leading to breakdowns.
Regular inspection and prompt repair scheduling help avoid more substantial appliance damage when minor issues first arise.
How Often Should Appliances Be Serviced?
Preventative maintenance maximizes performance and lifespan for expensive refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens and other appliances. Here are ideal servicing timeframes:
Refrigerator: Every 1-2 years
- Inspect seals, compressors, fans
- Clean coils/drain lines
Dishwasher: Every 1-2 years
- Check hoses, seals, spray arms
- Clean filters/drain pumps
Washing Machine: Annually
- Replace hoses every 3-5 years
- Inspect pump, belts, drum
Dryer: Every 1-2 years
- Clean lint buildup
- Inspect blower, thermostats
Oven: Annually
- Clean fan covers, broil element
- Check thermostats, wiring
Microwave: Every 2-3 years
- Inspect door seals and latches
- Check turntable motor
Garbage Disposal: Annually
- Clean blades
- Lubricate parts
While manufacturers provide suggested maintenance tips, your actual servicing needs depend on the age of each appliance and frequency of use. Newer or rarely used appliances may need less frequent tune-ups.
Conclusion
Regular appliance servicing provides peace of mind your major investments like refrigerators, ovens and laundry machines continue working smoothly over their lifespan. But when unavoidable repairs come up, choosing the right appliance repair company prevents wasted expense and headaches. With experienced technicians, prompt service, reasonable rates and quality workmanship, your appliances will be back running optimally in no time.