APPLIANCE PROBLEMS AND FAQ
We often see homeowners deal with clogged drains in the freezer, fridge, washing machine, disposal and dishwasher. The problem often lies with a fridge defrost drain being lined with a sheet of ice blocking it. Some homeowners will defrost the freezer and fridge to aid in getting rid of the ice, but this doesn’t always work. The drain could be clogged, or a baffle could be stuck of have failed. Removing the back panel of the fridge is necessary to get to the drip pan and to clean it out. There are some fridge models that do require a drain heater, which may need to be replaced if you are seeing issues with a blocked drain.
The best way to take care of a clogged washer is to prevent it. Checking the pockets of your clothing prior to washing them can save you hundreds of dollars. Some units have drain pump strainers that can be periodically checked to ensure they aren’t clogging. Always remember that more detergent doesn’t mean cleaner, and more softener doesn’t mean fresher.
Disposal and dishwasher clogs usually are related. Most clogged dishwasher drain lines come from backflow of grease and grime from the disposal. Don’t ever put pealings or things that can solidify down your disposal. It can clog your plumbing and dishwasher.
Have you turned on your dishwasher only to hear a loud screeching sound or a sound like a motor being dragged around the floor? A noisy dishwasher is typically an indication of a serious problem. The chances are, you likely need a new motor. Most noise issues cannot be fixed with simple repairs and do require diagnostic testing from professionals to identify the root cause of the problem.
What happens when you load a dishwasher and it will not turn on? How about a dishwasher that will not drain water or won’t allow detergent to dispense and clean the dishes? Dishwashers tend to be one of the appliances we repair most often due to improper use. A dishwasher that isn’t draining may have a clogged drain somewhere. How often do you clean the filter on your dishwasher? When detergent is left behind on the dishes, the problem often lies with the temperature of the water. Too hot or cool of inlet water temperature can affect the proper function of the detergent. It is wise to run your hot water and purge out the cool that way your dishwasher fills with the proper temperature. Don’t prewash your dishes, allow the dishwasher to do its job. Clear anything solid and any chunks, but put them in dirty.
What happens when you load a dishwasher and it will not turn on? How about a dishwasher that will not drain water or won’t allow detergent to dispense and clean the dishes? Dishwashers tend to be one of the appliances we repair most often due to improper use. A dishwasher that isn’t draining may have a clogged drain somewhere. How often do you clean the filter on your dishwasher? When detergent is left behind on the dishes, the problem often lies with the temperature of the water. Too hot or cool of inlet water temperature can affect the proper function of the detergent. It is wise to run your hot water and purge out the cool that way your dishwasher fills with the proper temperature. Don’t prewash your dishes, allow the dishwasher to do its job. Clear anything solid and any chunks, but put them in dirty.
A common problem with washing machines is a broken lid or door switch. The washing machine is designed to spin only when this switch is engaged. If you do not engage it, the machine automatically stops working for safety reasons. Door slamming is the number one reason for a washing machine door switches to break. Also avoid pulling on the door when it is locked. The washer is designed to unlock at the proper time. Don’t ever force the door open this can cause further damage and cost. Leave the appliance in its failed state and call iFiX today!
Have you ever placed your clothes in the dryer only to come back an hour later to wet clothing? Why does this happen? A dryer that no longer dries could have several things to check. Start troubleshooting by looking at the lint trap to see if it is built up with debris. If the lint trap and exhaust vent are both clogged, air flow is reduced, and the dryer can’t function properly. Another reason your clothes may not dry is due to a shorted thermal fuse or element. For additional problems, call in a professional from iFiX to diagnose and restore your dryer operation.
