August 8, 2024

Troubleshooting Appliance Issues

A guide on troubleshooting and fixing appliance issues.

Overview

We understand that sometimes appliances may break or stop working; before sending a maintenance team member, please take a moment to read through this guide for tips and tricks, and proper useage.

If the issue persists, please submit a ticket on the portal detailing the appliance concern, and we will be happy to assess it further. Please find our guide on How to File a Maintenance Request.

Appliance Tips & Tricks

Washers

  • Ensure you add only the recommended amount of detergent. Do not use excessive detergent, as it can be bad for your clothes and cause build-up. If the washer supports HE detergent, use the proper detergent.
  • Do not overload the washer. Overloading the washer can cause issues with the balance and potentially break the appliance.
  • If the washer won’t drain — First check for a kink or clog in the drain hose or a backup in the house drain system. If the drain path is clear, the drain pump might have failed or a broken water-level pressure switch might not sense how much water is in the washer.
  • If the washer smells bad — try running a cycle with a washer cleaner such as Affresh. The cleaner can help remove detergent or grime build up. You may also wipe down the interior with a bleach solution, ensuring you are cleaning around the rubber door seal (if it’s a front-loader).

Dryers

  • Clean the lint trap after every drying cycle.
  • Ensure you are not overloading the dryer with clothes to allow for ample airflow around the clothes.
  • If the dryer won’t turn on —
    1. Make sure the power cord is fully inserted in the electrical outlet.
    2. Check the house circuit breaker for the dryer. Reset the house circuit breaker if it has tripped.
    3. Unplug the dryer and check the power cord wiring connections on the terminal block.
  • If the dryer is not drying clothes well — Check the lint screen, as a clogged lint screen or blocked exhaust duct can prevent clothes from drying if the dryer is heating.

Dishwashers

  • Clean the dishwasher regularly with a bleach solution to combat odors and food build up. You may also clean the filter.
  • If the dishwasher is not draining —
    1. The filter, located at the bottom of the dishwasher, may be clogged with debris. If you find something blocking the drain, carefully remove it, and see if the dishwasher works properly.
    2. Check the garbage disposal and main drain. If there’s a blockage, attempt to clear the blockage, to allow for proper drainage.
  • If the dishwasher smells bad —
    1. Clean the filter. The filter collects food particles, dirt, and grease, so it can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. To clean it, remove it from the dishwasher and scrub it with warm, soapy water.
    2. Give the dishwasher's inside a thorough cleaning. Use a cleaning solution designed for dishwashers or make your own by mixing equal parts vinegar and water. Spray the solution onto the dishwasher's walls, bottom, and door, and let it sit for a few minutes.
    3. Use a soft cloth to wipe the surfaces clean.
    4. Run the dishwasher empty on a hot cycle. The combination of cleaning and hot water should help eliminate the smell.

Garbage Disposals

  • If the disposal is clogged — If your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, you may have a clogged drain. There are a couple of remedies for clearing a clogged drain.
    1. Turn Off the Garbage Disposal
    2. Remove the debris or blockage
    3. Flush the debris with water down the drain
  • If the disposal will not turn on — Your garbage disposal comes with self-protection: an overload trip.
  • If the appliance becomes clogged, overheats, runs for too long, or has another problem, your disposal may simply need to be reset rather than repaired. First, make sure the switch is OFF. Then locate the Reset button on the disposal under the sink, and press it. If the button does not stay in, wait ten minutes and try again.
  • Please review our guide on Proper Garbage Disposal Use for more information.

Refrigerators

  • Regularly clean the condenser coils to improve efficiency and cooling.
  • The refrigerator is too warm —
    • Make sure the fridge is receiving power.
    • Adjust the refrigerator thermostat
    • Unblock the vents for the fridge and freezer
    • Vacuum the coils under or behind the refrigerator

Ovens/Stoves

  • Regularly clean the oven and range to keep the appliance working properly.
  • If the oven or range will not turn on —
    1. Verify that the appliance is firmly plugged into the outlet.
    2. Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box for any tripped breakers or blown fuses.
    3. Ensure the gas supply is turned on (for gas ovens/stoves).
  • If the igniter on your gas stove clicks and clicks without the burner ever lighting —
    1. Check to make sure your burner cap is in place and properly aligned.
    2. If the cap looks fine, the source is likely a dirty igniter. To clean, remove the burner cap and wipe away any debris.

Microwaves

  • Ensure the microwave is plugged in and the door is securely closed.
  • Check the outlet by plugging in another device to ensure it is working.
  • Reset the microwave by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in.

Air Conditioners

  • Clean or replace the air filter regularly to maintain airflow. We suggest replacing the filter every three months.
  • Ensure the unit is properly plugged in and the circuit breaker has not tripped.
  • Ensure that the external unit is not obstructed by debris or exterior vegetation.
  • Please find our guide on Navigating Furnace and A/C Issues.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, please submit a ticket on the portal detailing the appliance concern, and we will be happy to assess it further.

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