Since 1974 Sargents Home Appliance Sales and Service In Reno and Sparks. (775) 358-4246

Extreme weather is a part of life, and learning to deal with it is how human beings have been able to evolve from primitive beings to advanced mega minds. Part of living in the 21st century is keeping our trusted appliances running correctly and efficiently when we’re faced with an emergency like an extended power outage or heat wave. Thankfully, I’m here to help arm you with the knowledge to make it through these inconveniences and come out the other end better than you would have otherwise. Together, we’ll go over what to do with your washer when you’re having power surges, how to cope with your refrigerator when a blizzard hits, and much more. Let’s get to it, as the weather never waits.

Preparing for Extreme Weather

When it comes to extreme weather, there’s not much we can do once it actually hits. Wind storms, blizzards, hard freezes, and heatwaves are just a few examples of the things that can cause us major issues in a short amount of time. In the days leading up to these storms, there are some preventative measures we can take so we are prepared when something does hit.

Protecting Electronics from Power Fluctuations

If you live in the rural parts of town or off-grid, you’re probably aware that your power can fluctuate, causing issues with your electrical devices. The best thing you can do if your power does have issues in harsh weather is to unplug or protect your expensive electronics. Things like newer washing machines, computers, and refrigerators are always using some sort of standby electricity. If a power surge happens, it could instantly “fry” your electronic control boards, causing thousands of dollars worth of damage. Unplugging them when you know you’re going to have an issue is a cheap alternative to having a service tech come out and repair all your stuff. You can also use a surge protector on your important things. However, you need to buy the correct protector for what you are using. Make sure you are getting the right amount of amp protection to adequately protect your appliance.

Managing Food During Power Outages

Depending on the temperature outside, a complete power outage can become a real nightmare. If you have a freezer full of food and the power goes out, you have a limited amount of time to get your food to a safe place before it begins to spoil. A refrigerator can warm up as much as 10 degrees in an hour with the doors staying shut the entire time. That means in one hour, you can potentially enter the temperature “danger zone” for your food. The best thing to do is to not open your door at all. Don’t even open it to check the temperature; it’s going up, trust me. If it’s hot outside, you need coolers. This is where some preventative measures come in handy. Make sure you have enough coolers on standby to keep your meat, frozen fruit, or other expensive items cold or frozen. Now, if it’s cold, you’re in luck. Just stick your food outside. If there’s snow, even better. You can safely keep your food in the snow without worry, besides maybe the dog eating it.

Using Backup Batteries

Keeping on the subject of power outages, if you have a backup battery with a 110-volt outlet, you can do a few things with it so you can keep using your appliances. Depending on the size of the battery and its output, you may be able to run your dishwasher off of it, as many new dishwashers use very little electricity. In most cases, a backup battery has enough juice to run a gas range. Yes, in many instances, you can light the top of your gas range with a match. However, if you plug the range into your backup, you might be able to use the oven, which uses very little electricity. If needing your oven or cooktop in a power outage situation is important, make sure you have what is needed to get the top going or run the oven.

Energy-Saving Tips During Heatwaves

Heat waves put a lot of stress on us humans and on the power grid. People using their air conditioners non-stop trying to cool themselves and their houses is one of the major reasons for this power deficit. Ensuring your AC filters are replaced at least every 3 months and making sure your outdoor condensing unit is clean are two amazing ways to help you reduce your energy usage. However, that probably isn’t enough in the scheme of things. During hot summer months and especially when we are having a heat wave, is the best time to line-dry our clothes. Not operating your dryer and using the power of the sun to dry our clothes is one of the best things we as humans can do to reduce our energy usage. Not to mention using your dryer 25% less would give you amazing results on the longevity of your dryer.

Extreme Temperatures and Appliance Performance

On really hot or cold days, our exterior walls start to heat or cool to the temperature on the outside. If we have an uninsulated garage, our garage will also do the same thing. In the occurrence of hot garages where most of us keep our spare refrigerators, it can get up to over 100 degrees. This high temp will make your refrigerator run harder and for longer periods of time. Unfortunately, we don’t put our best resources in the garage as a spare. Usually, we have a unit out there that kind of works, and putting it in a hot environment is making it worse. If you have this situation going on, try putting a small fan blowing towards the front of your unit. This extra airflow will help cool the compressor and refrigerant and help the unit cool, so it’s not running longer than it should. In the case of cold garages where some people keep their washers or have a laundry room off of the garage, freezing is a real issue. Cold temperatures can and will freeze the water going to the washer or the drain that allows water to leave the machine. If it’s a really cold day and your washer doesn’t want to fill with water, you most likely have a frozen water valve. If this occurs, try adding a heater or one of those light bulb extensions in the room. The extra heat can bring up the temperature enough to keep you from freezing. If your drain pipe is frozen, you’re going to need a plumber to insulate the pipe. This issue, over time, will bust the pipe causing a major issue inside the wall of your home.

Extreme weather can be a major downer. If you start having issues with your appliances while experiencing extreme weather, it can quickly become an emergency. Being prepared and knowing the potential issues you will face is a great step to overcoming adversity. In this blog, we talked about how to safely keep your medication and food in a power outage, how to save energy when in a heat wave, and how to protect your appliances when a cold or hot snap. But that’s not all we have in store for you. Join us next time as I uncover the tips and secrets of the appliance industry and help you maneuver through the ever-changing appliance landscape.

Among the chaos of modern life, our trusty appliances stand as helpful partners that ease our burdens of everyday life and keep our homes running smoothly. But have you ever wondered if these loyal members of the household might be secretly contributing to your energy bills spiraling out of control? If you've ever wished for the knowledge on how to transform your energy-hungry appliances into lean, green efficiency machines, you're in for a treat. Welcome to a guide that promises to reveal the secrets and hidden gems of energy-saving wisdom, straight from the treasure trove of an industry expert. In 'Energy-Saving Tips for Efficient Appliance Usage,' we're about to dive deep into a world that will revolutionize the way you interact with your washers, dryers, refrigerators and more. Bid farewell to wasted watts and buckle up as we dive into a world where your appliances not only serve you but also Mother Earth, one energy-efficient cycle at a time.

Cracking the Code of Appliance Efficiency

I know what you’re thinking. You wish we could go back to a world where the amount of water being used in my dishwasher wasn’t important. Unfortunately, the reality of the situation is that there are more people using more appliances than ever before. With this massive increase in people using energy and water consuming appliances there is a need to have a more energy efficient house, so there’s more energy to go around. Most newer appliances already have the water consumption and energy usage under control. But what about your old appliance that you don’t want to give up? Let's jump into some things we can do to help get the most out of your appliances without racking up a high energy bill.

Washers: Mastering Water Efficiency and Temperature Selection

Washers:  

1. Use the correct water level for the load you’re washing.
2. Is the extra rinse always on?
3. Use the correct water temperature for the stains or materials you have.

Washers use an incredible amount of water. The amount of water each cycle uses depends on a few factors, but it can be anywhere between 15 gallons and 40 gallons, PER CYCLE. Front load washers are going to use far less water than a top load, while still allowing you to have a large capacity. If water consumption is important to you, make sure you’re using the right load size for the job. You’d be surprised to find out that most people never change the load size on their washer. Even when doing a small load, the water level never moves. This one change could save you 20 gallons. A good rule is to do almost full loads most of the time. You’ll get the most out of your energy and water consumption this way. Another thing I often see is the extra rinse always being on. There’s this strange misconception that adding more soap is going to make your clothes cleaner. On top of being false, it’s not that great for your machine. Most people know this and opt for an extra rinse to ensure the soap has been washed from the clothes. If a washer fills with 14 gallons, then a redundant extra rinse is just going to add to that. A good option is to use the least amount of soap that you need to get your clothes clean; usually about 2 tablespoons up to a quarter cup for a large load. Remember, the soap manufacturers want you to use more soap than needed so you have to buy it more often, so be wary of their recommendations. 

Water consumption is vital with washers, but what about energy consumption? What can be done about that? For the most part, washers' energy consumption is surprisingly really low. The biggest energy usage from the machine comes from heating the water that you use on a warm or hot cycle. The motor and other electrical devices actually use very little energy. The best way to make sure you’re not over using hot water is to become familiar with what stains are removed with what water temperature. Most people default to warm water in their washer, which is OK but not efficient at all. Instead, use the correct water temp. For instance, blood, water based paint, food items and toothpaste are removed easily with cold water. Lipstick, grass, oil and grease are all stains that are removed with hot water. Knowing how stains work and what water temperature to use can really help you from using hot water when you don’t need to. 

Dryers: Decoding Drying Efficiency

Dryers:  

1. Check your lint filter every cycle.
2. Inspect the airflow leaving your dryer vent often.
3. Make sure your clothes are leaving the washer with most of the water spun out.
4. Do not overload your dryer.

Dryers, unlike their washing partner, use a ton of electricity. These units can easily increase your power bill $20 a month if you aren’t careful. Even dryers that tout being energy stars are still very high on the energy consumption scale. The heating element takes 240 volts to operate, which is double the power that most of your other household appliances use; 120 volts. Knowing this, we have to be very careful to check certain things often so it works optimally. The first and probably most obvious thing to do is to check the lint filter every time you use the dryer. On top of protecting you from an unwanted lint fire, cleaning the lint filter often will allow proper airflow, heating and drying. If your filter is filled with lint, air is not passing across the heater efficiently and is not drying your clothes as fast as it should. Another part of this lint system is the aluminum tubing that is behind your dryer. This tube attaches to your house, which runs a duct to the outside to blow the moisture out of the dryer. Since it’s passing wet air through this tube, lint sticks to the walls eventually clogging this duct. When this duct gets clogged, your dry times are most likely going to double or triple, and so is your energy consumption. If you’re experiencing longer than necessary dry times, find the exhaust around your house perimeter. If you discover no or low air flow you’re going to want to hire a professional to come out and clean your vent.

Airflow is essential, but how you’re loading your dryer is equally significant. When you’re pulling your clothes out of your washer, make sure they aren’t sopping wet. For the most part, you shouldn’t be able to wring any water from your clothes when they exit the washer. If you can wring water out, throw your clothes in for a second spin. This will help get the rest of the water out. If you keep getting really wet clothes, your washer might be having an issue. The last thing to ensure when loading your dryer is to make sure you aren’t over loading it with clothes. If you have too many clothes in your dryer, they can’t tumble correctly, hot air can’t get between them and your clothes are going to take much longer to dry. Your jeans are going to have wet pockets, your shirts are still going to be damp and you’re just going to have to run it a second time. Instead, let's make sure we’re doing correct load sizes in our washer, which will ensure that our dryer is being loaded correctly. 

Refrigerators: Unveiling Cooling Efficiency

Refrigerators:  

1. Check the condenser coil for lint and dirt often.
2. Don’t have it pushed too far up against the back or side walls.
3. Be careful of air vents and do not overload.
4. Check the temperature setting you have it set to.

Refrigerators are one of the most valued appliances we have in our homes. They also use quite a bit of electricity because they run most of the time. Did you know that your refrigerator runs about 75% of the day? It seems very inefficient but due to modern advancements, compressors and other electrical devices use far less electricity than they did in the 70’s-90’s. However, there are a few things we can do to make sure this unit isn’t running 90% of the day. One of the biggest factors to ensuring your refrigerators optimal performance is to make sure the refrigerant cooling system is operating correctly. That seems like a lot to take in but it’s been designed for you, the consumer, to do yourself. The cooling system is made up of a coil in the front of the unit and a fan to blow cold air across it. If you have lint build up or the unit is pushed too far up against the back or side walls, the air flow can not cool the condenser. At least once a year, you should be vacuuming your coil in front of the unit. Remove the plastic grill from the front and use a vacuum extension to get in there and clean it up for optimal air flow. If you see your refrigerator is pushed too far back, carefully give it an inch or 2 to breath. It doesn’t take much, but that little space can really get air moving around your area.

Although airflow outside the unit is very important, air flow inside the unit is equally as important. There are several air vents located at the top and bottom of the freezer and fresh food sections. If these vents get covered with food because of your loading or because it is overloaded, you are not going to get the air flow needed to cool the unit properly. When this happens, the compressor is going to run continuously to try and get it down to the right temperature. If you are finding defrosted or soft frozen items often inside your freezer, the best thing to do is take everything out, throw out the bad things (we all have them) and reload it taking these vents into consideration. 

A Path to Energy-Efficient Living

As we conclude our journey through this world of energy-saving mastery, remember that small changes can yield significant results. By implementing the tips we've shared for your appliances, you're not just trimming down your energy bills, but also reducing your carbon footprint one smart decision at a time. By embracing the tips shared here – from maintaining a spotless coil to mastering the art of optimal loading, from choosing the right water level to harnessing water temperatures for stubborn stains, and from vigilant lint screen cleaning to mindful management of exhaust air flow – you're on a path to not only conserve energy and cut down bills, but also contribute to a more sustainable planet.

But, we don’t end here. Check in with us next time as I continue to help you wade through appliance myths and become an expert in a field where everyone could stand to know a little more. 

Facing a malfunctioning appliance can be an inconvenient situation, but it doesn't have to drain your finances. With the abundance of appliance repair companies available, discerning the trustworthy ones can be challenging. In this article, "Choosing the Right Appliance Repair Service," we will delve into the essential factors to consider when selecting your next repair provider. I will provide insights into the key qualities to look for in a reputable appliance repair technician, allowing you to make an educated decision and ensure effective appliance restoration from the outset. Drawing from my personal experience, I understand that the appliance repair industry encompasses both reliable and subpar companies. This guide aims to steer you clear of unreliable options and guide you toward a dependable, competent appliance repair service that swiftly rectifies your appliance issues.

As someone who has faced my fair share of repair mishaps, I empathize with the frustration that dealing with repair companies can evoke. From repeated rescheduling to receiving exorbitant, baffling bills, the repair landscape can feel like a tumultuous journey. Fortunately, my experiences have equipped me with valuable insights, having been both a recipient of repair services and a repair business owner.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Appliance Repair Service:

1. Trust Your Instincts:

If you detect any suspicious signs associated with a repair company, it's best to steer clear. Even if you've incurred a diagnostic fee, it's wiser to invest in a second opinion rather than risk additional damage or receiving an inflated quote due to incompetence. Some individuals in the appliance realm may attempt to "wing it" by relying on online resources like YouTube videos or forums. While these resources can be helpful, a qualified technician should have been prepared for the job based on the provided model number.

2. Obtain a Second Opinion:

Don't hesitate to seek a second evaluation from a different repair professional. This precaution can safeguard you from potentially erroneous diagnoses and excessive repair costs.

3. Evaluate Reviews:

Online reviews hold merit and can offer valuable insights. Consistent patterns in reviews—such as recurring instances of misdiagnoses, rescheduled appointments, or unjustified repair expenses—can indicate standard business practices. Conversely, if reviews consistently highlight promptness, courtesy, and fair pricing, this can signal a reliable repair service.

4. Effective Communication:

When contacting a repair company, ask relevant questions to gauge their professionalism and expertise. Unprofessional or disinterested staff could be indicative of unsatisfactory service. Sharing pertinent information, like model and serial numbers, during your initial call can help the technician come prepared and potentially expedite the repair process.

5. Leverage Personal Connections:

Seek recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors who have utilized appliance repair services. Personal referrals carry significant weight and can guide you toward reputable options.

In a nutshell, we've covered the vital steps to nail down the perfect appliance repair service and highlighted the risks of making the wrong choice. From going with your gut feeling to browsing through reviews and getting advice from pals, these tips will serve you well. But our journey doesn’t end here. Join us again as I go over more professional tips and tricks that can help extend the life of your appliance, decrease its energy consumption, and overall keep your house running in top shape.

In a rapidly advancing world of technology and alluring new appliances, the age-old question lingers: Should you repair your trusty old appliance or invest in a shiny new one? This blog post aims to provide clarity and knowledge on this critical choice with advice from an industry pro. We will explore the differences between modern appliance quality and older generation models, as well as the impact of new energy standards. Join us as we delve into the world of "Appliance Repair vs. Appliance Replace" and uncover the tips appliance technicians use to make their decisions.

Innovation and Appliance Lifespan

Our society loves innovation and the ever-evolving features in household appliances. However, it's worth considering that more innovation often leads to shorter lifespans for appliances. Older appliances made before certain changes, like the 1994 refrigerant transition, tend to last longer compared to some newer counterparts. Sometimes, repairing an old appliance makes more sense than replacing it, especially if it involves multiple issues that can be addressed by a professional technician. Taking care of multiple repairs at once can even lead to discounts.

Energy Efficiency and its Impact

Energy efficiency regulations, while promoting a noble cause, have also caused some challenges. Manufacturers have made appliances more energy-efficient by using components that consume less electricity. However, this has sometimes resulted in reduced overall appliance longevity. For instance, newer refrigerators might not be as cold as older models due to changes in safe temperature zones. Understanding these changes can help you decide whether to repair your older, yet still functioning appliances, or invest in newer, more efficient ones.

Dishwashers: Filter Models vs. Agitator Models

Energy efficiency in dishwashers has brought both advantages and disadvantages. The shift from agitator models to filter models improved energy efficiency but introduced new challenges. The filters need regular cleaning, affecting washing efficiency. If your dishwasher is a filter model and experiencing minor issues like leaking or incomplete draining, it might be worth repairing. Consider the 50% rule: If repair costs are less than half the price of a new unit, repair might be a good option. However, be cautious not to compromise on quality when considering a new purchase.

Washing Machines: Balancing Capacity and Efficiency

The advancement of washing machines has brought features like larger capacities and faster spins, but it took time for newer models to match the cleaning performance of older machines. While older machines may last longer, newer machines are more efficient and use less electricity. When deciding whether to repair or replace your old washing machine, consider factors like the machine's age, capacity, and your satisfaction with its performance.

Factors to Consider When Deciding

When faced with the choice of repairing or replacing an appliance, consider these factors:

Personal Preference: Do you like the appliance? If you dislike it, a replacement might be the better choice.

Issue Identification: Try to identify the problem. This can help you get an accurate quote from a repair company and make an informed decision.

Market Alternatives: Research the options available on the market. Sometimes, the newer alternatives may not be suitable for your needs, making repairing the older appliance the better choice.

Appliance decisions can be complex, with various factors influencing the repair or replacement choice. By understanding the appliance world, energy efficiency, and individual preferences, you can make better-informed decisions. This blog post is just the beginning; stay tuned for more insights on choosing the right appliance repair company and exploring the latest innovations in the industry. Together, we can become more educated and make smarter decisions when it comes to our appliances. Until next time!

Contact us at (775) 358-4246 for a trusted opinion on repairing or replacing your appliance

In today's fast-paced world, our household appliances play a crucial role in simplifying our lives. But have you ever wondered how you can make these valuable time-savers last longer? Join us as we delve into expert tips and secrets to extend the lifespan of your washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. Discover the practices that can renew your appliances and save you time, money, and unnecessary effort.

Dishwashers

Lifespan when taken care of: 7-15 years

Lifespan when NOT taken care of: 2-8 years

• Pre-wash your dishes to activate the enzymes in dishwasher soap.
• Avoid overusing detergents and keep the rinse aid dispenser filled.
• Be mindful of how you load the dishwasher to avoid blocking the soap dispenser and causing damage to the racks.
• Use a dishwasher cleaner or a secret ingredient like our favorite, TANG, to remove build-up and keep your dishwasher functioning smoothly.

Refrigerators

Lifespan when taken care of: 8-15 years

Lifespan when NOT taken care of: 3-10 years

• Clean the coils underneath the refrigerator to ensure proper cooling and efficiency.
• Choose appropriate cleaning chemicals to avoid damaging the refrigerator's interior.
• Regularly check and clean the defrost drain to prevent water build-up and potential damage.
• Be mindful of how full you keep your refrigerator and ensure certain areas are free from food items that could obstruct airflow.

Dryers

Lifespan when taken care of: 10-15 years

Lifespan when NOT taken care of: 1 day-10 years

• Clean the lint filter before or after every load to prevent lint build-up and potential fire hazards.
• Inspect the air flow from the dryer vent exhaust to ensure proper ventilation.
• Check the vent tube behind the dryer for any obstructions or damage.
• Clean the sensor bars, if applicable, to ensure accurate drying and energy efficiency.

Washers

Lifespan when taken care of: 10-25 years

Lifespan when NOT taken care of: 2-8 years

• Avoid overloading the washer and follow the recommended weight capacity.
• Be careful how you load the washer to maintain balance and prevent unnecessary strain on the machine.
• Use the appropriate amount of detergent and avoid overusing fabric softener.
• Clean out the filter in front-load washers to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance.

Ranges & Ovens

Lifespan when taken care of: 10-25 years

Lifespan when NOT taken care of: 4-12 years

• Be cautious of boiling water over the cooktop to avoid potential damage and electrical problems.
• Keep the cooktop and oven clean, promptly removing any spills or food debris.
• Prevent food splatter around the edges, as it can attract pests like mice.
• Avoid using the self-cleaning feature close to important events, as high heat can cause damage to sensitive components.

By following these expert tips and practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your household appliances. From being mindful of proper usage to regular maintenance, taking care of your appliances not only saves you time and money but also ensures their efficient performance for years to come. 

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we'll explore more industry secrets and troubleshooting techniques to help you keep your appliances running smoothly.

Introduction

In a world where inflation has tightened its grip on most of our wallets, the allure of repairing our own appliances can seem like a great idea. With a simple internet search, we can access pages, blogs, and videos of DIY tutorials promising cost-saving solutions. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly harmless endeavor lies a web of hidden costs and problems that can quickly turn this money-saving venture into a financial nightmare. In this blog, we'll dive into a few untold stories of DIY appliance repairs, reveal some real-world dangers you may face, and expose the issue with relying solely on internet wisdom. Together, we'll learn the price one pays when you forgo professional expertise for well-meaning but misguided online advice. Prepare to challenge your own knowledge and change the way you look at broken appliances for the rest of your life.

The Pitfalls of Guesswork and Improper Diagnosis

Imagine this: you're finishing up your final load of laundry. You pull your clothes out of the dryer and find that they're cold and wet. You go to restart the dryer, thinking maybe you didn't set something right, and it doesn't start. Your clothes are still wet and cold, and your dryer is down. You pull out your phone and do a quick search to find thousands of results on what could be wrong. The phrase "start switch" keeps popping up, and you come to the conclusion that you're going to buy the part and attempt it yourself. After all, how hard could it be?

This exact scenario happens every day. I see people coming in asking for parts often, and in many cases, they are asking for a part that I have rarely replaced in my career. I don't blame them, as I would most likely do the same thing. When situations like this arise in my shop, I try to help as much as possible, which includes providing a little bit of education. When it comes to doing some sort of repair, you don't want to just wing it or "shotgun" the parts, as we call it. There's a certain amount of certainty that I look for when I'm trying to diagnose something, and without that, you're just guessing. There are a few skills that anyone can learn that can make diagnosing small issues much easier. For instance, I tell my DIY clients that they need a multi-meter in their house. This one tool can help solve many household problems, including basic electrical issues.

Safety First - Respect for Electricity

If you want to dive into the world of household repair, there are different things you'll need, or else you can seriously injure yourself or someone else in the house. First and foremost, you need to have respect for electricity. A lot of people are afraid of electricity, and that's totally fine. When I'm teaching someone, I always prefer them to be afraid of being shocked because that means they will respect it and not go around touching things without the correct precautions. Electricity can quickly hurt you, and if it's not put back together correctly, it can seriously harm someone else. Statistically, there are 400 deaths by electrocution with another 4000 non-death injuries every year. However, with the correct precautions, you can keep from being a part of this statistic and work alongside electricity like tens of thousands of people do every day.

The Importance of Proper Disassembly and Knowledge

Another thing every DIYer needs is the ability to step back and assess a situation to learn the best way to take something apart. You want to learn how it comes apart without randomly removing screws or stressing plastic panels. A simple 10-minute job can quickly turn into a multi-hour job with just one wrong move. I remember a dryer a few years back that had a decorative plastic ring that went around the door and control panel area. In order to do almost any repair on this dryer, you needed to remove this "beauty ring." Unfortunately, for most of us techs that worked on this dryer the first time, we weren't aware of how this flimsy plastic piece was attached, and we broke almost every tab. Not only did this add time to the repair because now I had to replace this piece I didn't bring with me, but it was a $150 part! This scenario isn't even the worst outcome I've seen. I remember a customer trying to save money by replacing a small part on his dryer. I sold him the part and explained the basics of how to perform the job. A few hours later, the man comes back holding his control panel. Come to find out that while he was working on his dryer, he dropped the control panel with the wires attached, ripping the wires out of the board and ruining his dryer.

Knowing When to Call a Professional

I personally have a rule of thumb: if I have the potential to break something else while working on something or if the part I'm replacing costs more than $75-$100, I'm going to call a professional. As I said earlier, breaking something else can be detrimental to your appliance, and "shotgunning" parts can quickly become very expensive. Currently, in my shop, I have a few-year-old stack washer and dryer. This stack came into the shop because every time the customer put in a new part, a new problem arose. The issue is, he's already spent enough money to have purchased another stack, in his own words. After several hours of diagnosing, I still cannot figure out what is going on. There are several pieces of plastic that have been broken and "repaired," missing screws, missing wiring schematics, and the potential that whatever they replaced actually made things worse. Unfortunately, I had to call the customer and tell him I'm cutting my losses, and he should as well. If we were to add up everything that was spent on this unit, it adds up to a little over $4000. $1499 for the original stack, $1000 in erroneous parts, $89 from our shop for labor to say it's unrepairable, and another $1499 to buy another stack. It breaks my heart, and I wish there was something that could be done, but at this point, there's no use putting another $400 in parts to try and figure it out.

Empowering You with Knowledge

In a world where most things continue to rise in price and where every penny counts, the allure of DIY appliance repair can be overwhelming. However, as we've discovered in this short blog, the hidden costs of relying solely on advice from the internet can quickly evolve, resulting in wasted time, frustration, and even thousands of dollars spent on a still broken appliance. But fear not! We have not left you empty-handed. Alongside cautionary tales, we've shared valuable tips, tricks, and professional insights that can empower you to make informed decisions when it comes to your machines. From understanding when to hire a professional to providing DIY guidance backed by years of expertise, we aim to equip you with the knowledge you need to repair things successfully. Stay tuned for our upcoming blogs, where we'll dive deeper into the fascinating world of appliances, uncover more industry secrets, and help you navigate the often murky waters of DIY repairs. Join us on this journey of knowledge as we strive to empower you to make the best choices for you, your family, and your appliances.

Imagine this scenario:  It's a busy morning, and you're in the middle of your morning routine when suddenly, your trusty refrigerator starts making a mysterious noise you’ve never heard before. Panic sets in as you realize that your overnight oats or lunch may be at risk. In moments like these, we all wish for a superhero to come to our aid and save the day. Fear not! You have the power within you to become your household's hero, armed with the knowledge to troubleshoot most of the common major appliance issues that plague our homes. From finicky or not working dishwashers to temperamental or leaking washing machines, this blog gets to the bottom of these secrets and mysteries to keep your household running smoothly. Get ready to learn the world of appliance troubleshooting and emerge the hero you're home deserves!

In this blog, we’re going to dive into several issues that we hear on a daily basis and what we tell our clients to check before sending out a pro. 


Washing machines

Envision a time when automatic washers didn't exist and cleaning your clothes meant using a barrel or even a rock at the river. Frankly, I don't want to imagine that either. The reality is, clean clothes are an essential requirement in our modern era. Visiting a Laundromat is often not feasible for many individuals, and hand-washing clothes in a sink would become a time-consuming occupation. Now, let's explore the common issues we frequently encounter at our shop.




1) Not draining water

This problem can manifest itself in various codes or indications that offer clues about the underlying issue. When faced with a drainage problem, our initial assessment involves inspecting the amount of residual detergent inside the tub. If we observe lingering soap suds, our focus shifts to investigating potential over-sudsing, indicated by an excessive amount of bubbles. Excessive soap in the water makes it challenging for the water pump to effectively expel the water from the machine. Instead, the pump churns the soap into a foam that doesn't drain properly.

If you suspect over-sudsing, a simple solution is to add a few tablespoons of cooking oil, such as olive or vegetable oil, to reduce the suds and facilitate quicker water drainage.

Once you've determined that soap isn't the cause of the issue, the next step involves examining the pump itself. In a front-loading washing machine with an access panel below the door, you can easily expose the pump by removing the 3 or 4 screws securing the lower panel. The pump will have several hoses and wires attached to it. CAUTION: There is a risk of flooding. With this type of pump, you can unscrew the side to reveal a filter that may have accumulated debris over the years. Be prepared for any water that may come out. Clearing the debris and re-installing the filter should resolve the problem.

If you've gone through these steps and are still experiencing issues, it is likely that a component needs replacement, and it is advisable to seek professional assistance.


2) Not filling with water. 

When a washer fails to fill, there are typically three potential problems to consider. The first and most common issue for homeowners to check is the incoming water pressure. To assess this, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water valve supplying water to the washer.
2. Unscrew the hose end connected to the washer, while keeping the hose attached to the house.
3. Place the water hose in the washer's drain pipe and turn the water back on.
4. Check the pressure of the water coming out of the hose. It should be strong enough to spray the wall across the room.

If the water pressure is good, the next step is to inspect the metal or plastic screens located on the washer. These screens can become blocked with dirt and grime, preventing water from passing through into the machine.

If both the water pressure and screens are fine, there may be an issue with the valve that controls water flow, or the safety switch known as the pressure switch might not be allowing water to pass through the valve.


Clothes Dryers

While the dryer may not be as crucial as its washing counterpart, nobody wants to hang their clothes outside only for birds to land on them. It results in a crunchy texture, takes an eternity to dry, and when it's snowing, it feels like it takes months for your clothes to be ready. Well, it's a humorous exaggeration, but you get the idea. Despite having fewer components that can break, clothes dryers incorporate numerous safety features to prevent accidental house fires in case of malfunctions.

Now, let's delve into the common issues we receive calls about almost every day and explore troubleshooting steps you, as a consumer, can undertake before resorting to hiring a professional.

3) Taking Too Long To Dry

When your dryer fails to dry efficiently, it can have various costly implications. Dryers are notorious for consuming significant amounts of electricity, often surpassing other appliances in your household. If you find yourself restarting the cycle multiple times because your clothes aren't drying, you're not only using two or three times more electricity but also wearing out the parts of the dryer faster. Additionally, it's wasting your valuable time that could be spent on Netflix or other activities.

If you're facing this issue, let's go over some simple checks you can perform. Firstly, examine the lint filter. Dryers rely on proper airflow for effective operation. If the airflow is restricted due to a clogged lint filter, the heater won't function efficiently, leading to significantly longer drying times. Clean the lint filter thoroughly to ensure it's not impeding airflow.

If the lint filter is clean and the issue persists, it's time to venture outside and locate the vent that exhausts the dryer air from your house. Typically, you'll find either a grate or flapper covering the vent outside. With the dryer running, feel around the opening of the vent. You should feel a substantial amount of air flowing from the vent. However, if there is minimal to no air coming out, it indicates a restriction either in the vent pipe directly behind the dryer or inside the wall. You can purchase an extendable lint brush to scrub the inside of your vent, or alternatively, seek assistance from a professional. It is crucial to address a lint restriction promptly to avoid the risk of a fire inside the vent.

By performing these checks and addressing any lint restrictions, you can improve the efficiency of your dryer and avoid potential hazards.


4) Dryer Too Hot

We’ve all experienced it. Your favorite shirt ruined in the dryer because it over dried or got burnt against the hot metal panel in the back. Of course, that band doesn’t play anymore either. Over drying is usually worse than under drying because it means your clothes are ruined instead of just a little damp. Let’s go over some common reasons why your dryer could be over drying your clothes. 

One of the first things to check is the temperature setting. Most people have gotten away with using 1 cycle on their dryer and it’s not really the way it’s supposed to be. If you checked the tag on your clothes for the drying instructions, it would say to tumble dry LOW. This is because the materials used to make shirts can not withstand the heat generated in a HIGH heat cycle. Usually, a dryer runs at about 180-210 degrees F on a high heat cycle, depending on what dryer you have. This is good for towels, rugs, jeans and heavy material items. A t-shirt can probably get away with these high heats, but it isn’t extending the life of your shirt at all. 

If you’ve determined that the temperature setting is correct, the next thing to do would be to check the vent pipe behind the dryer. If this is crushed and the safeties inside the dryer aren’t working right, this would cause the dryer to heat up uncontrollably. If you’ve noticed that your vent is crushed, it’s best to go to a local appliance store and get the correct length of venting needed to properly install your dryer again. Making sure that you have proper airflow going to the outside of your house is ideal for maintaining a healthy, safe dryer.


Dishwashers

In my household, the dishwasher is one of the most loved items. Due to our large family, we use a bunch of dishes. When it’s busy or needs to be emptied and there are dishes to go in behind it, it brings our kitchen to a standstill. Even more important, is making sure it’s operating correctly so you have properly washed and sanitized dishes, because no one wants to use the bowl with lettuce attached to it. Let’s check out some common issues with dishwashers and what you can do to minimize the amount of time you spend hand washing dishes.




5) Not Washing Well

Ah, the persistent issue of dried, crusty food residue on our dishes. We've all encountered it, running the dishwasher again and again only to have the same disappointing outcome. After a week of finding a quarter of your dishes still dirty after a cycle, you realize it's time to take action. But what can you do?

Around four years ago, dishwashers introduced a filtration system to remove food particles from the interior. However, most retailers failed to inform customers about the importance of cleaning this filter, which can wreak havoc on your dishes. If you're experiencing poor washing results, let's locate and clean that filter. Pull out the bottom rack of your dishwasher and inspect the bottom area. Typically, there is a round filter that twists out for cleaning. Remove this filter, along with any other attached mesh filters. Use soap to clean the fine mesh thoroughly because even if it appears clean, there might be grime obstructing the small holes, preventing water from passing through effectively. Dirty filters hinder the dishwasher's ability to circulate water strongly enough to clean your dishes.

If your filter is clean or you're fortunate enough not to have one, another effective option is to run a long, hot cycle with powdered Tang, the fruit drink famously taken to space. Tang contains citric acid, which works wonders in removing built-up calcium or lime scale and breaking down leftover food particles that might be lurking in your dishwasher. Add a few tablespoons of Tang to the bottom of your dishwasher and fill the main and pre-wash areas of the soap dispenser. As the dishwasher runs, the solution will spread throughout, breaking down substances that can cause dirty or cloudy dishes. After approximately 15 minutes, consider opening the door or pausing the cycle for a brief soak before resuming.

If these solutions don't resolve the issue, it may be time to call a technician who can further investigate and identify any underlying problems with your dishwasher.


6) Not Draining The Water Out

Having your dishwasher filled with dirty, nasty water is one of the worst things imaginable. If you have that water sit around for a while, it will start a science experiment in your dishwasher that will inevitably make your kitchen start to smell funky. Luckily, there are a few things to check before hiring out a pro. 

First off, did you just have your garbage disposal replaced? If the person installing the disposal doesn’t take out the plug that you attach your dishwasher to, your water will have nowhere to go besides back inside the unit. This happens so often, that it is the first thing I ask someone when they are having an issue with water not draining.

Another thing to check would be the air gap, which is the thing on top of the sink that spills water out when your dishwasher is draining into a restriction. The air gap has a tube that goes to your disposal or into your sink piping. Food can get lodged into this tube creating a blockage. To clean this hose, either remove the hose entirely and blow through it, yuck, or take the air gap apart from the top and run a brush down into the sink. This will clean out any junk and get your water flowing correctly again.


Refrigerators

Refrigerators, a true modern marvel. Without it, we would still be eating pemmican and foraging for our foods. Refrigeration has helped us eat safer because our food is fresh and maintained at a good temperature. But when this modern marvel goes out, it spells disaster for our waistlines and wallets. Eating out has become a luxury with the increase in food costs and it never has been very healthy. Cooking at home with fresh ingredients is just the smart choice. Let’s go over some common issues that plague refrigerator owners. 




7) Cleaning The Coil

Cleaning the coil. What the heck does that even mean? Even though cleaning the coil isn’t an issue per say, it can and will cause a lot of expensive issues that can cause you to lose food. 

First off, the coil is the common term for the condenser. Unsure of what the condenser exactly is? Check out our glossary of terms here, https://www.sargentsoutlet.com/p/refrigerator-glossary-of-terms. The condenser is below the refrigerator and is responsible for cooling the refrigerant as it does the refrigeration cycle. When dirt or lint build up on this coil, it loses its ability to cool correctly. This makes the refrigerator run warmer, as well as heating up the compressor and connecting wires and tubes that supply electricity and water throughout the unit. If these wires or tubes heat up, they can break causing an electrical problem, or a hose can break causing a leaking problem. Both of these issues can cause major issues in your house or for your flooring.

The best way to keep the condenser clean is too regularly, once a year, clean it with your vacuum. This is done by opening the doors and removing the grill or toe kick. This will expose black tubes that will usually be warm. Using your vacuum often on these coils ensures it doesn’t impact inside the coil, which makes cleaning it inside the house almost impossible. There are also brushes specific for this job, allowing you to scrub stuck lint off the coil. 


8) Water Leaking Mysteriously

One of the creepiest things to happen to me in the middle of the night is stepping in ice cold water while trying to fill up my water glass. You’re unsure of where it’s coming from, it’s cold and it’s the middle of the night. Did someone drop an ice cube? Odds are, actually, that the defrost drain is clogged. In the normal operation of your refrigeration, moisture is accumulated on the other coil inside the refrigerator, the evaporator coil. This coil is the part that actually gets cold and it freezes water to it constantly. Every 8 hours that your refrigerator is cooling, it initiates a defrost cycle to melt this frost away. The water from this process travels down, or is supposed to at least, a tube that evaporates from below the unit. When this tube becomes clogged, the water has no where to go besides on to the floor of the refrigerator and eventually, on to your kitchen floor. 

The easiest way to diagnose this is to find water in the bottom of the refrigerator, or ice in the bottom of the freezer. If you have water or ice, you will want to locate the air fins located on the back panel, low in the freezer. Inspect that area for ice. If ice is present, your defrost drain is most likely clogged. To clean it, you’ll need to find the blockage. First off, check the back of the unit by the compressor. This area is covered by a panel you will have to remove. You will need to locate the pan that water sits in and then locate the tube that deposits water into this pan. In many cases, there is a “duck bill” that covers the tube. This can get dirty and gum up not allowing water to pass. You’ll want to clean this valve and reinstall it. Next, you’ll need to clean the ice inside that we located earlier. Below this ice, you’ll find a hole. Be careful not to touch the shiny aluminum as it is very fragile. When the defrost hole has been located, you’ll want to flush it with hot water, usually from a turkey baster. You’ll know it’s clean when water flows through without pooling up inside the defrosting area. 

If you repair this and it continues to happen, there are heaters that can be installed, but this is a last ditch repair and not to be done the first time. 


Cooking: Ranges and Ovens

It's true that most people prefer home-cooked meals. There's a certain satisfaction that comes from food prepared with love in the comfort of one's own home. Homemade meatballs, tacos, soups, and sauces are just a few examples of culinary delights that fulfill our cravings. However, when you're left with microwavable meals or cold items, that special magic seems to fade away. Now, let's explore some common issues and steps you can take before resorting to calling a technician.




9) Gas Igniter Won’t Light

Dealing with a gas stove that keeps clicking without igniting can be incredibly frustrating. While you can manually light it with a lighter or match, that's not what you paid for. If you can hear the igniter sparking but don't see a flame, there's a potential solution we can try.

In many cases, a small amount of water may have found its way into the bottom pan of the burners, causing electrical issues. If you suspect water might be contributing to the problem, the best approach is to manually light all the burners and let them stay on for a while, preferably up to an hour. This allows the trapped water below the burners to evaporate and dries out the connections, improving the ignition process.

If this method doesn't resolve the issue, it's worth cleaning the caps that go onto the burners. The igniter relies on an electrical connection with the burner assembly, and if there is grease or grime buildup on the burner, the igniter may struggle to find a suitable surface to spark.

If neither of these steps resolves the problem, it's recommended to contact a technician who can diagnose the issue further. They will be able to determine whether the problem lies with the igniter probe itself or the spark module, and take the appropriate steps to fix it.

By attempting these troubleshooting methods, you may be able to address the clicking issue and restore proper ignition to your gas stove.


10) Cleaning The Always Dirty Glass Cooktop

Glass cooktops have usually been marketed as a cleaner option then coil or gas because of the smoothness of the surface. If that’s true, why does it always look so dirty and grimy? I’m going to lose some friends here, but it’s your cooking habits. As with many things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you clean up your mess right as it happens, you don’t have to worry about deep cleaning as often. The issue is the surface is usually very hot because you were cooking. How do you combat this? The answer is a metal, razor blade scraper with square blades. These work magic as they are sharp, metal and cheap to maintain. I keep it right next to my stove. The trick is to keep the blades new so they don’t damage the top when dull. 

Once a month or so, you can do a deep clean, using a cooktop cleaning paste to soak the top in, and your scraper to scrape the dry paste and debris off. If you keep up on these 2 steps, your glass cooktop will look brand new 5 or 10 years in the future. 


Conclusion

Congratulations on acquiring the essential skills for appliance troubleshooting! With your newfound knowledge, you are now equipped to tackle various household challenges that may arise. As we conclude this blog, it's important to remember that you are not alone on this journey. We have embarked on this exploration of common appliance issues together, empowering ourselves with valuable knowledge along the way. We have emerged smarter and more capable than before.

However, this is merely the start of our adventures together. Stay tuned for our upcoming blog, where we will delve into even more fascinating and vital topics that will transform you into a true household superhero. The journey continues, and we're excited to have you on board.

If you need repair, click the links below to get service from one of Washoe County's top companies.

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