Appliance Repair Tips – Simple Fixes for Everyday Problems

Got a noisy fan, a fridge that won’t cool, or a dishwasher that’s filling up with water? You don’t need to panic. Most household appliances have a few easy checks that can save you a callout fee and a lot of hassle. Below are the most common issues you’ll face and what you can do right now with just a screwdriver, a cleaning cloth, and a bit of patience.

Common Issues and Easy Checks

Extractor fans. If steam hangs around after cooking, the fan is probably clogged. First, turn off the power, then remove the filter and give it a good rinse. If suction is still weak, check the duct for blockages – a flexible brush works wonders. A stuck vent flap can also restrict flow; make sure it moves freely.

Hot water heater element. No hot water? Flip the breaker, then use a multimeter to test the element for continuity. A reading of zero means the element is dead and needs replacing. Even if you’re not comfortable swapping it yourself, knowing the part is faulty helps the technician quote a fair price.

Electric hobs and ovens. When the hob won’t heat, look for a tripped safety reset button under the cooktop. Press and hold for a few seconds – often that’s all it takes. For ovens, a broken heating element will cause uneven or no heat. A quick visual inspection for cracks or black spots can confirm the problem before you order a new part.

Refrigerators. A fridge that hums but stays warm usually has a dirty condenser coil. Pull the unit away from the wall, vacuum the coils, and clean the fan blades. Also, check the door seals – a leaky seal lets warm air in and forces the compressor to work harder.

Dishwashers. Water pooling at the bottom often means a clogged filter or a kinked drain hose. Remove the lower rack, pull out the filter, and clear any food debris. Then inspect the hose for blockages or sharp bends.

Freezers. If it won’t stay frozen, make sure the temperature knob is set correctly and that the freezer isn’t overpacked. Poor airflow is a common culprit; arrange items so air can circulate and defrost any frost buildup.

When to Call a Pro

Some fixes are safe DIY, but electricity and gas can be risky. If you see any signs of burnt wiring, a tripped circuit breaker that won’t reset, or a gas leak smell, stop immediately and call a qualified technician. Also, if your appliance is still under warranty, a DIY repair could void it – let the authorised service handle it.

Complex issues like a faulty water‑heater thermostat, a broken oven control board, or a malfunctioning washing‑machine motor usually need professional tools and expertise. When you call us, we’ll diagnose the problem fast, explain the fix in plain language, and give you a clear price before any work begins.

Remember, regular maintenance prevents most breakdowns. Clean fan filters, vacuum coils, and run a quick run‑through of each appliance every few months. A little attention now saves you time, money, and the headache of a dead appliance later.

Got a specific problem that isn’t covered here? Drop us a message or give us a call. At Bridgewater Appliance Fixers we love turning a stressful breakdown into a quick, painless fix.