Appliance Failure Guide – What to Do When Things Stop Working

Ever wonder why your fridge hums then stops cooling, or why the oven won’t heat? Most appliance failures aren’t mysterious – they’re usually a simple part wearing out, a clogged filter, or a loose connection. Knowing the usual suspects can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Common failures and fast fixes

Refrigerator not cooling – Check the condenser coils first. Dust on the coils makes the compressor work harder and can overheat. Pull the fridge away from the wall, unscrew the coil cover, and vacuum the dust away. Next, make sure the door seal is clean and tight; a leaky seal lets cold air escape. If the fridge still runs warm, listen for the compressor clicking on and off – that could mean a faulty start relay, a cheap part you can replace in 10 minutes.

Oven that won’t heat – Most electric ovens have heating elements that turn black or develop cracks. Turn the oven off, let it cool, then remove the element and inspect it. If you see any breakage or heavy discoloration, replace it. For gas ovens, a blocked igniter or a cracked thermocouple can be the culprit. A quick spark test with a multimeter tells you if the igniter is dead.

Washing machine won’t spin – First, look at the lid switch. If the lid sensor is stuck, the machine thinks the door is open and refuses to spin. Press the switch manually; you should hear a click. If it’s stuck, clean the contacts or replace the switch. Next, check the drive belt – a broken or loose belt stops the drum from turning. Re‑install a new belt and you’re good to go.

Dishwasher leaving water at the bottom – A clogged drain hose or filter is the usual suspect. Remove the lower rack, pull out the filter, clean any food particles, then run a short wash cycle. If water still pools, detach the drain hose and check for blockages. A simple bend can trap food debris.

DIY vs. calling a pro

Most of the fixes above need just a screwdriver, a vacuum, and maybe a multimeter. If you feel comfortable unplugging the appliance, removing a panel, and swapping a part, go ahead – you’ll save the call‑out fee. But if the problem involves gas lines, high‑voltage wiring, or sealed‑unit compressors, stop and call a qualified technician. Safety first, always.

When you call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers, we’ll quickly diagnose the issue and give you a clear price before we start work. Our team can handle everything from a stuck extractor fan to a faulty water‑heater element, and we pride ourselves on fast turnarounds.

To avoid future failures, keep up with regular maintenance: clean filters every month, wipe condensers quarterly, and listen for odd noises. A little preventive care goes a long way in extending the life of your appliances.

Got an appliance that just gave up? Use the quick checks above, and if you’re still stuck, reach out to us. We’ll get your kitchen or laundry back in action without the hassle.