Appliance Tips: Simple Fixes & Maintenance Hacks

Got a noisy washer, a cold shower, or an oven that won’t heat? Most of these issues have a quick check you can do before calling a pro. Below you’ll find the most common hiccups and what you can try at home.

Everyday Checks That Save Money

First thing’s always power. Make sure the plug is tight and the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. A loose plug or a blown fuse can make any appliance look dead.

Next, look at the filter or vent. A clogged dryer lint screen, a blocked fridge condenser coil, or a dusty oven vent all cause the unit to work harder and overheat. Cleaning these parts takes a few minutes and can restore normal performance.

For water‑based appliances, check the water supply. A kinked hose, a closed valve, or low pressure will give you error codes on washers and dishwashers. Unscrew the inlet hose, make sure the valve is fully open, and run a short test cycle.

DIY Fixes for Common Problems

Washing machine won’t spin? Most brands let you reset the machine by unplugging it for a minute, then plugging it back in. If error codes stay, pause the cycle, open the door, and look for a jammed belt or a foreign object in the drum.

Oven not heating? For electric ovens, the bake element is the usual culprit. Look for a broken spot or a burnt smell. Test the element with a multimeter; if it shows no continuity, replace it. Gas ovens need a quick check of the igniter – a weak spark will prevent the flame from lighting.

No hot water? Start by flushing the water heater. Sediment buildup reduces heat transfer. Turn off the power, attach a garden hose to the drain valve, and let the water run until it’s clear. If the unit still stays cold, the thermostat or heating element may need swapping.

Refrigerator freezer not cooling? Verify the door seals are tight. A worn gasket lets warm air in, forcing the compressor to work nonstop. Clean the coils at the back of the fridge; dust makes the system run hot and inefficient.

Extractor fan humming but not moving air? The motor may be stuck. Turn off the power, remove the fan cover, and give the blades a gentle spin. If they stick, spray a little oil on the motor shaft and re‑assemble.

When you hit a snag you can’t fix, note the symptom (error code, weird noise, leak) and call a local service. Providing that info saves the tech time, and often the bill.

Keep a small toolbox with a screwdriver set, a multimeter, and some basic cleaning supplies. Having the right tools makes most of these quick fixes painless.

Remember, regular maintenance beats emergency repairs. Spend a few minutes each month checking filters, seals, and vents, and you’ll extend the life of every appliance in your home.