Tradesperson Tips for Tackling Everyday Appliance Repairs

If your washing machine won’t spin or the oven won’t heat, you don’t need to panic. Most home appliances have a few predictable problems that you can diagnose in minutes. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common issues, show you simple tests, and tell you when it’s smarter to call a professional.

Common Problems You’ll Face

First up, the dryer. If it’s not heating, check the lint filter, the vent hose, and the heating element. A clogged vent can make the dryer think it’s safe to run, but it won’t get hot. Swap the element with a multimeter – if there’s no continuity, replace it.

Next, the fridge. A fridge that’s warm but still runs often points to a dirty condenser coil. Pull the back panel, brush off any dust, and vacuum the fins. If the coil is clean and the unit is still warm, the thermostat or start relay could be at fault. Those parts are cheap and easy to swap.Ovens and stovetops love to give you the “no heat” signal. For electric ovens, start with the bake element – look for visible cracks or use a multimeter. Gas ovens need a quick check of the igniter; a dull glow usually means it’s still good, but a no‑spark situation means you need a new igniter.

Washing machines are notorious for error codes. Most brands let you reset by unplugging for a minute. If the code stays, inspect the door latch and water inlet valves. A faulty latch will keep the machine from spinning, while a blocked inlet valve stops it from filling.

When to Call a Pro

Even the savviest tradesperson hits a wall. If you’re dealing with a main control board, especially on refrigerators or dryers, the cost of a new PCB can be high and the replacement risky. That’s a clear sign to ring a qualified technician.

Same goes for any HVAC component like heat pumps or boilers. These systems involve refrigerant, high‑pressure gas, or electrical wiring that must meet safety codes. A licensed pro will avoid costly mistakes and keep your home safe.

Another red flag is a recurring fault after a quick fix. If the same issue pops up within a week, there’s likely an underlying problem you missed. A professional can run a full diagnostic and spot hidden issues before they turn into pricey breakdowns.

Finally, trust your gut. If you feel uneasy about opening a sealed unit or working around high voltage, it’s better to spend a bit on a service call than risk injury or damage.

Bottom line: many household appliances have straightforward fixes that a tradesperson can handle in under an hour. Keep a basic toolbox, a multimeter, and a few replacement parts on hand, and you’ll save time and money. When the problem goes beyond simple parts or safety, call a pro and get it done right.