Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Expert Appliance Repair in Newburyport, Massachusetts
At Appliance Repair Pros we understand that when a home appliance breaks down you have questions. You need clear and reliable information to make the best decisions for your home and your budget. Whether you are dealing with a refrigerator that is not cooling or a washing machine that will not spin or a dishwasher that leaves dishes dirty the uncertainty can be stressful. We have compiled this comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions page to address the most common concerns we hear from homeowners in Newburyport and the surrounding communities.
Our goal is to demystify the repair process and provide you with the expert insights you need. We cover everything from general service inquiries to specific troubleshooting tips for major brands like Whirlpool and Samsung and LG and high end manufacturers like Miele and Bosch. If you do not see your specific question listed here please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly. We are here to help you get your household back to running smoothly.
General Service Questions
How do I know if my appliance is worth repairing?
Deciding between repair and replacement is a common dilemma. As a general rule if the repair cost is less than half the price of a new unit it is usually worth fixing. You should also consider the age of the machine. Most major appliances are built to last between 10 and 15 years. If your unit is under 10 years old a repair is often the most economical choice. Additionally older appliances are often built with more durable components than newer budget models. Repairing an older high quality unit can often yield better long term reliability than replacing it with a cheaper modern alternative. We provide an honest assessment of your specific appliance’s condition to help you make an informed decision.
Do you service gas and electric appliances?
Yes we service both gas and electric household appliances. Our technicians are trained to handle the specific safety requirements of gas ranges and dryers including leak detection and ignition system troubleshooting. We also possess the expertise to work on high voltage electric ovens and induction cooktops. Whether you have a gas cooktop that will not light or an electric dryer that is not heating we have the skills to resolve the issue safely and effectively.
What areas do you service?
We are proud to be a local business serving the Newburyport area. Our service territory includes Newburyport and the surrounding towns of Salisbury and West Newbury and Newbury and Rowley and Byfield. We are dedicated to providing responsive service to our neighbors in these communities.
How long does a typical repair take?
Our goal is to complete repairs as efficiently as possible. In many cases we can diagnose and fix the issue during the initial visit if the necessary parts are on hand. Our trucks are stocked with a wide inventory of common parts for major brands like GE and Whirlpool and Frigidaire. If a specific part needs to be ordered we work with reliable suppliers to obtain it quickly. We communicate with you throughout the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I troubleshoot the problem myself before calling?
Yes there are a few simple things you can check before scheduling service. First ensure the appliance is plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. For water related issues check that the water supply valve is fully open. If your appliance has a filter like a dishwasher or washing machine check to see if it is clogged with debris. However we strongly advise against attempting complex repairs involving gas lines or high voltage electricity or sealed refrigeration systems. These repairs require specialized training and tools to perform safely.
Refrigerator Repair FAQs
Why is my refrigerator running constantly?
If your refrigerator runs continuously it is struggling to reach the set temperature. This is often caused by dirty condenser coils. Dust and pet hair can build up on the coils restricting airflow and preventing the fridge from releasing heat. Cleaning these coils can often solve the problem. It can also be caused by a failing door gasket which allows warm air to enter the cabinet. If the coils are clean and the seals are tight it could indicate a more serious issue with the compressor or the defrost system.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling but the freezer is working?
This is a classic sign of an airflow issue. Cold air is produced in the freezer and circulated into the fresh food compartment by an evaporator fan. If this fan fails the fridge will warm up while the freezer stays cold. It can also be caused by the air damper getting stuck in the closed position. Another common cause is a defrost system failure where ice builds up on the evaporator coils and blocks the air passage between the compartments.
Why is my refrigerator leaking water on the floor?
Water pooling under the fridge is usually caused by a clogged defrost drain. During the defrost cycle melting ice drips into a pan and evaporates. If the drain line is blocked by food particles or ice the water overflows onto the floor. It can also be caused by a leak in the water supply line for the ice maker or water dispenser. We can clear the drain and inspect the tubing to stop the leak.
Why is my ice maker not making ice?
If your ice maker has stopped producing ice check that the wire shutoff arm is in the down position. If it is up the ice maker is turned off. Also check your water filter. A clogged filter can restrict water flow to the ice maker. If the filter is good and the arm is down the issue may be a frozen fill tube or a faulty water inlet valve or a broken ice maker module.
Dishwasher Repair FAQs
Why is my dishwasher not draining?
A dishwasher that will not drain typically has a blockage in the drain system. Check the filter at the bottom of the tub for food debris. Also check the connection to your garbage disposal where a knockout plug might have been left in place if the disposal is new. If the path is clear the drain pump may be jammed with a piece of glass or a seed. We can disassemble the pump to clear the obstruction or replace the pump if the motor has failed.
Why are my dishes still dirty after the cycle?
Poor cleaning performance is often due to a lack of water circulation. Check the spray arms to ensure they can spin freely and that the nozzle holes are not blocked. If the arms are clear the issue may be a worn wash pump or a broken chopper assembly. It is also important to ensure you are using fresh detergent and that the water temperature is hot enough (at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit) to dissolve grease.
Why is my dishwasher not drying dishes?
Most modern dishwashers use a rinse aid to help water sheet off dishes. If you are not using rinse aid your dishes will likely be wet. If you use rinse aid and the dishes are still wet the heating element or the vent fan may have failed. On European models like Bosch and Miele that use condensation drying ensure that you are unloading the bottom rack first to prevent water from dripping onto the dry dishes below.
Why is my dishwasher leaking from the door?
Leaks from the door are often caused by a worn door gasket. Over time the rubber seal can become brittle or torn. It can also be caused by the dishwasher not being level which prevents the door from sealing properly against the tub. Another common cause is using too much detergent or the wrong type of detergent which creates excessive suds that push past the seal.
Washing Machine Repair FAQs
Why is my washing machine not spinning?
If your washer fills and drains but will not spin the issue depends on the type of machine. On top loaders it is often a broken lid switch. If the machine thinks the lid is open it will not spin for safety. It can also be a broken motor coupling or a worn clutch. On front loaders it is often an issue with the door lock assembly or the motor control board. An unbalanced load can also prevent the machine from reaching high spin speeds.
Why is my washing machine leaking water?
Leaks can originate from several places. Check the fill hoses behind the washer for cracks or loose connections. The drain pump filter on front loaders is another common leak point if it is not tightened properly. Leaks can also come from the door boot seal on front loaders if it is torn or punctured. Internal leaks can occur from the tub seal or the drain pump itself.
Why does my washing machine smell bad?
Odors are a common complaint especially with front load washers. This is usually caused by mold and mildew growing in the door boot seal or the outer tub. To prevent this leave the door slightly ajar between loads to allow the drum to dry out. Run a monthly cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or hot water and bleach. We can also perform a deep cleaning service or replace the moldy door seal.
Why is my washer making a loud banging noise?
A loud banging noise during the spin cycle usually indicates a suspension issue. The shock absorbers or suspension springs that hold the tub may be worn out causing the tub to hit the cabinet. It can also be caused by a loose tub nut or worn tub bearings. If the noise sounds like a jet engine it is likely the bearings.
Dryer Repair FAQs
Why is my dryer running but not heating?
If the dryer spins but there is no heat the heating element (electric) or the igniter (gas) has likely failed. In electric dryers the heating coil can break over time. In gas dryers the igniter may not get hot enough to open the gas valve. It can also be a blown thermal fuse which is a safety device that trips if the dryer overheats. A clogged vent is the most common cause of a blown thermal fuse.
Why is my dryer taking so long to dry clothes?
Long dry times are almost always caused by restricted airflow. If the hot moist air cannot escape the clothes will not dry. Check your lint trap before every load. More importantly check the vent hose behind the dryer and the ductwork leading outside. If these are clogged with lint it creates a fire hazard and reduces efficiency. We can clean the internal airways of the dryer to restore performance.
Why is my dryer making a squeaking noise?
A squeaking or thumping noise is usually caused by worn drum support rollers or a worn idler pulley. The heavy drum rides on these rollers and the bearings eventually dry out. It can also be caused by the drum belt fraying or the drum glides wearing down. We recommend replacing the rollers and belt tensioner to silence the machine.
Why will my dryer not start?
If the dryer is completely unresponsive check the door switch. If the switch acts as if the door is open the dryer will not start. It can also be a broken start switch or a failed thermal fuse. On newer electronic models it could be a control board failure. We troubleshoot the electrical circuit to identify the bad component.
Stove and Oven Repair FAQs
Why is my oven not heating up?
If your electric oven is not heating the bake element may be burnt out. You can often see a break or a blister on the element coil. If the element looks good it could be the control board or a thermal fuse. On gas ovens the most common cause is a weak igniter. The igniter must glow hot enough to open the gas safety valve. If it is weak it will glow but the gas will not release.
Why is my gas burner clicking but not lighting?
Continuous clicking is usually caused by moisture in the ignition switches. If you recently cleaned the cooktop water may have seeped into the switches. Let it dry out for 24 hours. If it still clicks the switch or the spark module may be faulty. If it clicks but there is no spark the electrode may be dirty or broken. Clean the burner head and electrode gently with a toothbrush.
Why is my oven temperature inaccurate?
If your oven is cooking too hot or too cold the temperature sensor may have drifted out of calibration. We can test the resistance of the sensor to see if it is accurate. If it is good we can often calibrate the offset in the control board settings to correct the temperature without replacing parts.
Why is my glass cooktop cracked?
Glass cooktops can crack from impact such as dropping a heavy pot. Using a cracked cooktop is dangerous as liquids can seep through and contact the high voltage electrical components. The glass cannot be repaired it must be replaced. We can install a new glass maintop to make your range safe again.
Brand-Specific Questions
Do you service high-end brands like Miele and Bosch?
Yes we specialize in the repair of premium European brands. We understand the unique engineering of Miele appliances including their TwinDos washers and MasterCool refrigerators. We are also experts in Bosch appliances including their quiet dishwashers with AquaStop leak protection. We have the specific diagnostic tools and technical knowledge required to service these sophisticated machines correctly.
Can you repair my Samsung ice maker?
Yes we are well versed in the specific issues affecting Samsung ice makers particularly the freezing over issue in French door models. We can perform the comprehensive update which involves sealing the ice room replacing the ice maker module with an updated version and updating the software to prevent the problem from returning.
Do you fix LG linear compressors?
Yes we are experienced in diagnosing and replacing LG Inverter Linear Compressors. These compressors have a unique design and require specific techniques to replace. We can determine if your cooling issue is due to a compressor failure and perform the sealed system repair to get your refrigerator running again.
Do you service Kenmore appliances?
Absolutely. We service all Kenmore appliances regardless of who manufactured them. Whether your Kenmore unit was built by Whirlpool or LG or Frigidaire we can identify the original manufacturer and source the correct parts. We understand the legacy of the Kenmore brand and are committed to keeping these dependable machines in service.
Can you repair my KitchenAid mixer?
While we specialize in major household appliances like refrigerators and ovens we do not typically service small countertop appliances like stand mixers or toasters. Our focus is on the large equipment that is essential to your home’s infrastructure.
Troubleshooting and Error Codes
What does the F21 code on my Whirlpool washer mean?
The “F21” code on a Whirlpool washer indicates a long drain time. This means the washer is taking too long to pump the water out. It is often caused by a clog in the drain filter or a blockage in the drain hose. It can also indicate a failing drain pump. We can clear the blockage or replace the pump to clear the error.
What does the LE code on my LG washer mean?
The “LE” code stands for Locked Rotor Error. This usually indicates an issue with the motor or the Hall sensor (rotor position sensor). It means the control board cannot detect the motor spinning correctly. It can be caused by a heavy load but if it persists it requires a technical repair of the motor system.
What does the E15 code on my Bosch dishwasher mean?
The “E15” code indicates that the flood safety switch in the base of the dishwasher has been activated. This means there is a leak inside the unit that has filled the bottom pan. The machine will run the drain pump continuously to prevent flooding. This requires finding and repairing the source of the leak which could be a sump seal or a hose connection.
What does the 5E or nd code on my Samsung washer mean?
The “5E” or “nd” code stands for No Drain. Like the Whirlpool F21 code this means the water is not leaving the machine. Check the debris filter at the bottom front of the washer for coins or lint. If the filter is clear the drain hose or pump is likely the issue.
What does the F1 code on my oven mean?
An “F1” code on an oven generally indicates a failure of the electronic control board or a stuck key on the touchpad. It can sometimes mean a runaway temperature condition which is a safety hazard. If you see this code try resetting the breaker. If it returns the control board likely needs to be replaced.
Maintenance Tips
How can I prevent dryer fires?
The most important step is to clean your lint screen before every load. You should also have your dryer vent duct cleaned professionally at least once a year to remove built up lint that bypasses the screen. Ensure the flexible vent hose behind the dryer is not crushed or kinked. Do not leave the dryer running when you leave the house.
How do I keep my front load washer from smelling?
Use high efficiency (HE) detergent and use only the recommended amount. Using too much soap creates suds that leave a residue where mold feeds. Leave the door open after every cycle to let the drum dry. Wipe down the door boot seal regularly to remove moisture and debris. Run a “Clean Washer” cycle with bleach or a washing machine cleaner monthly.
How do I maintain my refrigerator coils?
You should clean your condenser coils at least once a year or more often if you have pets. The coils are usually located behind a grille at the bottom front of the fridge or on the back of the unit. Use a coil brush and a vacuum to remove dust and pet hair. This helps the refrigerator run more efficiently and extends the life of the compressor.
Should I rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher?
You should scrape off large food particles but you generally do not need to pre rinse dishes with modern dishwashers. In fact modern detergents contain enzymes that need food soil to work against. If the dishes are too clean the detergent can actually etch your glassware. Let the dishwasher do its job.
Serving Newburyport and Surrounding Areas
We are committed to serving the residents of Newburyport and the following communities with integrity and expertise.
Newburyport (01950): We are your local experts for all appliance repair needs in the downtown and residential areas of Newburyport.
Salisbury (01952): We provide prompt service to homeowners in Salisbury ensuring your beach rentals and year round homes remain functional.
West Newbury (01985): Our technicians are frequently in West Newbury servicing the high end kitchens and laundry rooms of this community.
Newbury (01951): We cover all of Newbury including Plum Island and Old Town delivering reliable repairs to historic and modern homes alike.
Rowley (01969): We extend our expert service to Rowley helping residents maintain their household appliances with ease.
Byfield (01922): We are proud to serve the village of Byfield with the same level of dedication and technical skill.
Conclusion
We hope this FAQ page has answered your questions and provided you with confidence in our ability to handle your appliance repair needs. At Appliance Repair Pros we believe that an informed customer is a happy customer. We are dedicated to providing transparency expertise and value in every service call. Whether you need a simple fix or a complex repair on a high end unit we are the team you can trust in Newburyport. Do not let a broken appliance disrupt your life.
Contact us today.
