Month: September 2023

Common Causes of Intermittent Operation Failures in Appliances

Posted on by Dre'as

It can be incredibly frustrating when your appliances like your refrigerator, oven, or washing machine only work some of the time.

Here are some of the Causes:
  • Loose Electrical Connections:
    With prolonged use, vibrations from normal appliance operation gradually loosen electrical wiring and connections. Actively inspecting for loosened terminals and wires and securing these connections is crucial for resolving intermittent electrical failures.
  • Defective Door Switches:
    Many appliances have door safety switches that engage when doors close, allowing operation. If these become worn out or damaged, the unit may only work when the door makes contact the right way.
  • Failed Thermal Fuses:
    Thermal fuses are safety components that disable the unit when overheating is detected. Repeated overheating from a separate issue can cause thermal fuse failure. When the fuse resets, the appliance will resume function.
  • Component Overheating:
    Similar to thermal fuses, some individual components like compressors and motors can overheat and shut down until they cool, causing intermittent stopping and restarting.
  • Timer and Program Errors:
    Defects in electronic control boards and programming can lead to intermittent operation if the unit shuts down prematurely or doesn’t run for the full duration.

FAQs

Defective heating elements, bad thermostat contacts, and loose electrical connections can prevent proper power flow to elements and cause intermittent heating.

A worn out water inlet valve might get stuck closed. Thermal fuses may trip, halting filling until the unit cools. Door latch problems could also be preventing activation.

If agitation and spin work occasionally, it’s typically due to a loose wiring connection, broken motor coupler, or failure of the lid switch to engage properly.

Restricted exhaust venting triggering the thermal fuse to trip temporarily can be one cause. Overheating motors may also be overloading and shutting down intermittently.

Yes, it's highly recommended to contact an appliance repair pro for diagnosis of intermittent issues, as identifying the underlying problem requires expertise.

Guidelines on Hiring and Working with an Appliance Repair Expert

Posted on by Dre'as

When your refrigerator, oven, or other essential appliance unexpectedly breaks down, most homeowners aren’t equipped to handle repairs on complex, modern machines. Calling in a professional appliance repair technician is the best way to accurately diagnose issues and properly fix your appliance. However, with so many repair companies to choose from, it can be daunting finding the right provider.

In this article, we’ll walk through the complete process of hiring an appliance repair pro, from researching reputable companies to understanding repair estimates and setting expectations. Follow these guidelines to ensure you select a qualified technician, understand all fees and parts used, and establish protections should the repair not go as planned. With the right information upfront, you can confidently hire an appliance expert to get your home devices up and running again quickly and seamlessly.

  • Ask around for referrals and search online reviews to find a reputable, experienced appliance repair company. 
  • Look for technicians licensed, insured, and certified by manufacturers to work on your specific appliance brand.
  • Get estimates from 3+ companies to compare rates for parts, labor, trip fees and other charges.
  • Be wary of quotes that seem drastically low compared to other estimates, as it may indicate bait pricing.
  • Ask questions about their repair process, parts used, warranties, and typical turnaround time.
  • Request a written estimate or service quote before approving any work. Understand all fees.
  • For extensive repairs, ask if refurbished/used parts are an option to lower costs.
  • Let the technician know if you have a time constraint, like needing the appliance repaired ASAP.
  • Ask the technician to explain the issue, necessary repairs, how to prevent recurrence, care for parts.
  • Review the company’s repair guarantee and know who to contact if the same issue arises again.

Following these tips will help you select, communicate with, and set expectations with a qualified appliance repair professional. You can contact us for your appliance repairs and additional questions. We are at your service to give you the best of experience.

Warning Signs Indicating You Need an Appliance Repair

Posted on by Dre'as

Is your trusty refrigerator sounding odd lately or your stove baking unevenly? Many common appliance issues arise gradually over time through normal wear and tear. But left unaddressed, small problems can become larger repair headaches. Be alert for any of these indicators that your home appliances may need professional service:

  • Strange Noises or Vibration: If you hear unusual humming, grinding, knocking or buzzing from your appliance, something is likely amiss. Refrigerator compressors and washer/dryer motors commonly develop noises indicating issues.
  • Temperature Irregularities: Fridge temperatures, freezer items partially thawed, or oven baking inconsistently hot or cold point to malfunctions needing repair. Improper temperatures signify problems with thermostats, compressors, igniters or heating elements.
  • Leaking Water or Gas: Leaks around or from appliances should never be ignored as they pose risks and can worsen rapidly. Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerator water lines commonly spring leaks. Gas leaks are extremely hazardous.
  • Difficulty Starting or Turning Off: An oven that won’t ignite, refrigerator that takes multiple tries to start, or appliance that won’t shut off indicates faulty electrical components that should be addressed.
  • Error Codes or Fault Alerts: Many modern machines display numeric error codes or flashing lights signaling specific faults. Refer to manuals and contact repair pros to diagnose these issues.
  • Poor Performance: If appliances fail to perform regular functions like cooling, cleaning, spinning, powering on/off, or more, repairs may be in order. Decreased function often signals wear, broken parts or electrical bugs.

Trust your senses. Unusual sights, sounds and performance from home appliances signals unseen problems. Call experts at the first signs of trouble to avoid more disruptive breakdowns or safety risks.

FAQs

Significant temperature fluctuations in refrigerators and freezers usually do signal an issue like a compressor, thermostat, or seal failure that requires repair by a technician.

Yes, a delayed response when powering on/off appliances, difficulty starting them, or failure to shut off may indicate an electrical issue needing repair.

Clogged drains, broken spray arms, worn out pumps, faulty heating elements, and other failed parts can cause poor cleaning performance necessitating repair.

Yes, error codes often do indicate a specific fault requiring diagnosis by a technician, so the code provides helpful insight into what needs repair.

Romanos Appliance Repair Insights

Posted on by Dre'as

Most Common Repairs

The most frequent issues seen are refrigerators not cooling properly, washers leaking, and ovens not heating right. Problems with compressors, pumps, and heating elements often are the culprit. Dishwashers not cleaning dishes thoroughly are also very common service calls.

Biggest Repair Challenges

Refrigerator sealed system repairs involving refrigerant recharging are very tricky and best left to experts. Also, diagnosing intermittent electrical failures can seem technical, as it takes patience and testing during the act of malfunctioning to pinpoint the root cause.

Essential Education and Training

Romanos appliance repairs stresses that an appliance repair education, hands-on training, and manufacturer certifications are extremely valuable. Multi-meter usage, understanding schematics, and troubleshooting methodology are key skills that take dedicated training. 

Top Tips for Customers

Romanos appliance repairs #1 tip for customers is to keep appliances clean and maintained. Preventative care like regularly cleaning coils, changing filters, etc. can significantly extend the life of appliances. In addition, customers must always consult an expert before attempting DIY as the appliance can further be damaged if not done properly.