Wait, Do You Really Want to DIY Appliance Repair?
Do It Yourself “DIY” projects can save you a lot of money if you are handy and have the skillset to build or fix things around the house. That said, there are specific projects that you should leave to a professional. Professional appliance repair technicians are adequately trained for the job and can save homeowners both time and money.
So, before you decide whether to DIY an appliance repair project or hire a professional, make sure you understand the dos and don’ts of DIY repairs.
Educating yourself will help you make an informed decision on whether to repair the appliance yourself, call a professional, or replace your machine. And remember, Atlanta Appliance Services can help.
Anyone Can DIY Preventative Maintenance for Appliances in the Home
While you may not be able to replace the motherboard on a computerized appliance, or the thermal fuse in your dryer, there are things you can DIY to help the performance of your home appliances.
Not to mention, caring for any part of your home gives you pride in a job well done and time well spent. And there are plenty of those DIY things you can do to maintain your appliances between professional service.
That is why the professionals at Atlanta Appliance Repair have put together this guide to help you get started.
1. The Stovetop: The stovetop could use a good scrub down no matter the type of range you have. You can take off the knobs and clean them and the underneath. And never forget about the sides between the stovetop and counter. Alternatively, these parts can be replaced relatively easily if that is easier than scrubbing.
2. Rangehood Vents: It is simple to wash the metal filter on your vent over the stove. And don’t forget to replace the charcoal filter annually.
3. Oven Care: If your oven has a self-clean setting, you are in luck. If not, purchase a good oven cleaner and a pair of gloves and get to work. Also, check the door seals and replace them if there are any cracks.
4. The Refrigerator: Check the seals on your fridge doors as well. Then wipe down the shelves and inside the fridge. See if the water filter needs replacement. And finally, dust off the coils and change the filter if you have one. And never forget that light bulb.
5. Your Dishwasher: Dishracks, silverware baskets, and dispensers can all be replaced if needed. Then, check the filter at the unit’s bottom and ensure there is no residue or food particles. Make sure all lines and fittings are leak-free and tight. Run the dishwasher empty with a cleaner to refresh the entire interior.
6. The Washer and Dryer: Clean both appliances monthly and check the filters too. Then be sure the seals are intact, and you should be good to go.
7. That Microwave: Simply take a large glass measuring cup of water and set it for two minutes. The steam created inside will loosen any food or grease stuck in the unit. Then wipe it out with a wet cleaning rag or a bit of vinegar and water.
8. Those Countertop Appliances: The mixer, the toaster, the coffee maker, and the waffle iron all could use attention after use. Please don’t forget to give them a good once-over cleaning too.
9. And the Garbage Disposal: Most of the time, a broken disposal is just in need of replacement. But keeping it clean is essential as well. Clean the garbage disposal easily with tabs purchased at the grocery store and hot water.
It is not difficult to help your appliances stay in quality working condition between scheduled maintenance visits. And for help with your devices, we suggest you give your local appliance repair professionals a call for help. It will save you time, money and a big headache too.
Beware of DIY Appliance Repair
Of course, you will want to research any project before starting DIY repairs. Weigh the pros and cons of DIY or placing a service call. If you are spending double the money moving forward on the DIY and then you’ll still have to place a service call, that is not worth it.
Knowing the following warnings will help you decide whether DIY is for you.
What is the Age of Your Appliance?
The lifespan of any appliance will depend on the brand and how well you take care of your appliances. Still, most appliances have a general life expectancy.
Determine whether it makes sense to repair ancient appliances by considering the general lifespans and care taken thus far.
What is Your Skill Set?
What skillset do you possess in repairing an appliance? Can you change out the refrigerator light bulb? Then, obviously, more forward. Can you check and switch out a refrigerator compressor? That skill set demands a much high skill level, so calling an appliance repair expert would be a great call. You may be costing yourself more money and time if you attempt a repair outside of your skills.
It may not be worth your time or money to repair your appliance that is at the end of its lifespan. You may just need to go ahead and have it replaced.
Appliance Warranties
Does your appliance still have coverage under warranty provided? If yes, a simple call to the warranty company or an appliance repair company could be the answer.
However, if you mess with it while under warranty, that warranty is void. So be sure to check the dates and then call for help.
Simple Checks
These may seem obvious, but in a rush to get dinner ready, you may skip right over a simple outlet issue or the like. Many things can be easy fixes for appliances that are
not working correctly, for example:
- Is the device adequately plugged in?
- Is there a fuse blown?
- Have you cleaned out the lint tray?
- Is the door to the refrigerator or freezer closed?
- And more
Check the simple, often overlooked, possible problems before you take the appliance apart. Call an appliance repair expert once you’ve checked the simple items and it is still not working correctly.
Appropriate Costs
In our experience, three costs are necessary to review while attempting to repair an appliance to determine if the cost is justified in the expense to fix the issue:
- The level of appliance repair necessary. For instance, is the dryer smoking, or did the refrigerator compressor goes out? These are items that you cannot repair in DIY style.
- When the actual price of fixing the appliance vs. the cost of buying a new machine is off, you may want to opt for the latter. Usually, this is what happens with small appliances, disposals, and microwaves.
- Does the cost of DIY parts, your time, and tools necessary to complete the repair?
Considering the above, it should become clear which method to use to return your appliance to a fully functional state.
Hiring a Professional
It would not be wise to attempt a DIY repair with an appliance problem that requires professional help. So if you have to watch a video on the matter or don’t know a screwdriver from a hammer, these repairs will need a professional.
Nevertheless, it is imperative to keep up with your appliance maintenance. Making sure your appliances are running smoothly goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs.
Routine maintenance is necessary to extend the lifespan of your appliances which includes maintaining a proper checking and cleaning schedule for your devices. Make sure to call an experienced quality appliance and repair specialist who will restore your appliances to top condition.
Repair or Service with Atlanta Appliance Services
So, if one of your appliances is not working at peak performance, a repair might be required. Be sure to call an experienced quality appliance and repair specialist who will restore it to proper working condition.
Atlanta Appliance Services is the local appliance repair company that you can count on. We specialize in repairing appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, stoves, dishwashers, and much more.
Contact our appliance repair service to get on the schedule for your appliance maintenance before it is too late.