Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Appliance Repair Pros
At Appliance Repair Pros, we believe an informed homeowner is a happy homeowner. When your refrigerator stops cooling or your washing machine refuses to spin, you have questions—not just about the repair itself, but about the process, the timing, and whether the machine is worth saving. We have compiled this comprehensive guide to answer the most common inquiries we receive from our neighbors in Milford, Hopedale, Mendon, and the surrounding Blackstone Valley communities.
Our goal is to be your trusted resource for all things related to home appliance maintenance and repair. Whether you are dealing with a high-tech Samsung refrigerator or a trusty older Maytag dryer, we have likely seen the issue before. Below, we break down our answers by category, covering general service questions, specific appliance types, and brand-specific concerns. If you do not see your specific question listed here, please reach out to us for assistance. We are always ready to help you get your home back in working order.
General Service and Logistics
How quickly can you come out to fix my appliance?
We understand that a broken appliance is a major disruption to your daily life. A freezer full of thawing food or a washer full of wet clothes constitutes an urgent situation. We strive to offer prompt service to all our customers in Milford and the surrounding towns. In many cases, we can schedule an appointment for the same day or the very next day, depending on our current volume of calls. We utilize efficient routing software to navigate the local roads from Upton to Wrentham, maximizing the time our technicians spend in your home fixing the problem rather than sitting in traffic. When you reach out to us, we will provide you with the earliest available time slot to get your household running smoothly again.
Do you service my specific town in the Blackstone Valley?
We are a locally focused business, and our service territory is designed to ensure we can reach our customers quickly. We proudly serve homeowners in Milford, Hopedale, Mendon, Medway, Bellingham, Millis, Holliston, Medfield, Wrentham, Whitinsville, Northbridge, Upton, and Uxbridge. If you live in any of these communities, you are in our primary service zone. We know the local area intimately, from the historic districts requiring careful parking considerations to the newer developments with specific utility setups. By keeping our service area focused, we ensure reliable arrival times and a higher quality of service for our neighbors.
Is it worth repairing an appliance that is over 10 years old?
This is the most common question we hear, and the answer depends on several factors: the brand, the type of failure, and the overall condition of the machine. Generally, if a repair costs less than 50% of the price of a new replacement unit, it is financially sound to proceed. For high-end brands like Miele, Sub-Zero, or Wolf, repairs are almost always the better option due to the high replacement cost and long lifespan of the units. Conversely, for budget brands with major failures (like a transmission on a cheap washer), replacement might be wiser. We commit to giving you an honest assessment. If we believe a machine is past its prime or if parts are no longer available, we will tell you upfront so you can make an educated decision.
What kind of protection do you offer on your repairs?
We stand firmly behind the quality of our workmanship and the parts we use. When we complete a repair in your home, we provide a solid protection plan on both the labor we perform and the replacement parts we install. This gives you peace of mind knowing that if the specific part we replaced fails again or if the initial issue persists within our coverage period, we will return to make it right at no additional charge to you. We use high-quality, manufacturer-approved parts to ensure durability and performance. Our goal is to fix the issue once and fix it right.
Do I need to clean my house before the technician arrives?
You do not need to deep clean your home, but we do ask for a clear path to the appliance. Repairing a machine often involves moving heavy equipment, using diagnostic tools, and laying down protective mats. Please clear away any laundry piles, dishes, or clutter from the immediate area surrounding the appliance. If we are servicing a washer or dryer in a tight closet, removing items stored on top of the units is very helpful. For refrigerators, you generally do not need to empty the food unless we suspect a compressor failure or need to access the back panel inside the freezer. Securing family pets in another room is also requested for their safety and ours.
Refrigerator and Freezer Questions
Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?
This is a classic symptom that can stem from several issues. First, it could be dirty condenser coils. If the coils are coated in dust and pet hair, the compressor cannot release heat, causing the system to overheat and shut down cooling. Second, it could be a defrost failure. If the evaporator coils inside the freezer are packed with ice, air cannot circulate to the fresh food compartment. Third, it could be a failure of the start relay or the compressor itself. We perform a systematic check of these components to identify the root cause. We recommend vacuuming your condenser coils annually to prevent this situation.
Why is my refrigerator leaking water onto the floor?
Water leaks are usually caused by a blocked defrost drain or a leaking water supply line. Every refrigerator has a defrost cycle that melts ice off the coils; this water is supposed to drain into a pan underneath the unit and evaporate. If the drain tube gets clogged with food debris or ice, the water overflows inside the fridge and leaks onto the floor. Alternatively, the plastic tubing supplying your ice maker or water dispenser may have cracked due to age or heat stress. We can clear the drains and replace damaged tubing to protect your kitchen flooring from water damage.
My ice maker has stopped working, can you fix it?
Ice makers are complex mechanical assemblies operating in a freezing environment, making them prone to failure. Common issues include a frozen fill tube (preventing water from entering the mold), a failed water inlet valve, or a broken motor module. On certain brands, like Samsung, ice makers can freeze over entirely due to air leaks in the compartment. We can diagnose whether the issue is a simple jam, a temperature control problem, or a component failure. We also check your water filter, as a clogged filter can reduce water pressure enough to stop ice production.
Why is my refrigerator making a loud buzzing noise?
While all refrigerators make a low hum, loud buzzing or grinding is not normal. This usually points to a fan motor failure. There is an evaporator fan inside the freezer and a condenser fan near the compressor. If either of these motors begins to wear out, or if ice buildup hits the fan blades, it creates a loud noise. Another possibility is the compressor itself vibrating or struggling to run. We can pinpoint the source of the sound and replace the failing motor to restore quiet operation to your kitchen.
Washing Machine Questions
Why does my washing machine smell like mildew?
This is a frequent complaint, especially with front-loading washers. The watertight seal on the door can trap moisture, detergent residue, and fabric softener, creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. To prevent this, we recommend leaving the door ajar between cycles to allow the drum to dry. Using too much detergent (or non-HE detergent) creates excess suds that leave a scum layer behind. We can perform a deep clean of the internal components and, if necessary, replace the moldy door boot seal to eliminate the odor.
My washer fills with water but won’t spin, what is wrong?
A washer that won’t spin leaves you with a heavy, soaking wet load. This can be caused by a broken lid switch or door lock. As a safety feature, modern washers will not spin at high speeds if they believe the door is open. It could also be a broken drive belt, a stripped motor coupling, or a failed motor control board. On top-loaders, a worn clutch or shifter assembly is a common culprit. We test the safety interlocks and drive components to get your machine spinning again.
Why is my washing machine shaking violently?
excessive vibration is often due to an unbalanced load, but if it happens with every load, mechanical issues are likely. The machine must be perfectly level on the floor; we can adjust the feet to ensure stability. Inside the cabinet, suspension rods, damper pads, or shock absorbers hold the tub in place. If these wear out, the tub will bang against the sides of the cabinet. In severe cases, the rear tub bearing may have failed, which is a significant repair. We can assess the suspension system to smooth out the spin cycle.
Dryer Questions
My dryer is running but there is no heat, is it broken?
A dryer that tumbles without heat is frustrating. For electric dryers, this is often a burnt-out heating element or a tripped circuit breaker (electric dryers require two fuses; one can blow while the other keeps the motor running). For gas dryers, it is often a failed igniter or weak gas valve coils. However, a very common cause for both types is a blown thermal fuse. This safety device trips when the dryer overheats, usually because the home’s vent duct is clogged with lint. We test all heating components and check your airflow to ensure the repair is safe and lasting.
Why is my dryer making a loud squealing or thumping noise?
Dryers are relatively simple machines with a rotating drum supported by rollers and a bearing. Over time, the rubber wheels on the drum support rollers can wear out, causing a rhythmic thumping noise. A high-pitched squeal often indicates a problem with the idler pulley tensioner or the rear drum bearing. Ignoring these noises can lead to the belt snapping or the motor seizing. We can replace the maintenance kit (rollers, belt, and idler) to make your dryer sound like new again.
Why does it take two or three cycles to dry my clothes?
If your dryer is heating but taking forever to dry, the issue is almost always airflow. The moist air produced by the drying process must be vented outside. If your vent hose is crushed, or if the ductwork in your walls is clogged with lint, the moisture stays in the drum. This not only extends drying time but also poses a fire hazard and shortens the life of your appliance. We can clean the internal airways of the dryer and advise you on the condition of your home’s venting system.
Dishwasher Questions
Why is my dishwasher leaving dishes dirty?
Poor cleaning performance is usually related to water flow or water temperature. If the filter at the bottom of the tub is clogged with food debris, water cannot circulate effectively. Spray arms can also become clogged with hard water deposits or seeds, blocking the jets. Additionally, if the water inlet valve isn’t opening fully, the machine won’t get enough water to clean. We inspect the pump, clean the filters and spray arms, and verify that the heating element is raising the water temperature to the sanitary levels required to dissolve detergent.
My dishwasher won’t drain, what should I do?
Standing water in the dishwasher is unpleasant. This is often caused by a blockage in the drain pump, the drain hose, or the air gap (the small cylinder next to your sink faucet). If you have a garbage disposal, the dishwasher drains into it; if the disposal is clogged, the dishwasher cannot drain. We can clear these blockages and test the drain pump motor to ensure it has the power to push the water out. In some cases, a broken check valve allows dirty water to flow back into the machine.
Why is my dishwasher leaking from the front?
A leak from the door area is often caused by a worn or damaged door gasket. Over time, the rubber can become brittle or torn. It can also be caused by the dishwasher not being level, causing water to slosh forward. Another common issue is using too much detergent or the wrong type (like regular dish soap), which creates excessive suds that push water out of the seals. We check the alignment of the door, the condition of the seals, and the dispenser assembly to stop the leak.
Stove, Oven, and Range Questions
Why is my gas burner clicking but not lighting?
The clicking sound is the spark electrode trying to ignite the gas. If it clicks continuously without a flame, the burner cap might be misaligned, or the small ports on the burner head might be clogged with grease or spillover. It could also be a weak spark module or moisture in the ignition switches after a heavy cleaning. We can clean and service the burners to ensure safe and reliable ignition.
My electric oven isn’t heating up, is it the element?
Often, yes. The bake element at the bottom of the oven can burn out over time, breaking the electrical circuit. However, it could also be a failed temperature sensor, a blown thermal fuse, or a control board relay that isn’t sending power to the element. We use a multimeter to test the resistance of the element and the sensor to pinpoint the failure. On hidden element ovens, the repair involves removing panels to access the heater beneath the floor.
Can you replace the glass cooktop on my stove?
Yes, we can replace cracked glass cooktops. However, the glass assembly is often one of the most expensive parts of the appliance. When we assess the unit, we will provide you with the total repair investment so you can decide if it makes sense compared to the cost of a new range. We strongly advise not using a cracked cooktop, as spills can penetrate the glass and cause electrical shorts in the high-voltage components below.
Brand-Specific Questions
Samsung Repair Questions
Can you fix the ice maker in my Samsung refrigerator?
Yes, we are very familiar with the freezing issues common to Samsung “Ice Master” units. The problem typically involves warm air leaking into the ice compartment, causing the maker to freeze into a solid block. We perform a comprehensive service that involves sealing the ice room, updating the software, and replacing specific components to resolve this issue effectively.
My Samsung washer stops and shows a “dc” error, what is that?
The “dc” or “UE” error code indicates an unbalanced load. On Samsung top loaders, this is frequently caused by worn suspension rods. The rods lose their ability to dampen the tub’s movement, causing it to bang against the sides and trigger the error. We can replace the suspension assembly to restore stable spinning.
LG Repair Questions
Do you work on LG linear compressors?
Yes, we are trained to diagnose issues with LG refrigerators using linear compressors. If your fridge is running but not cooling, we can check the amp draw and the sealed system pressures to determine if the compressor has failed. We can discuss your options regarding warranty extensions that LG may have issued for specific models.
My LG dryer says “FlowSense” or “D80”, what does that mean?
These error codes indicate a restriction in your home’s airflow venting system. The dryer is sensing that it cannot push air out efficiently, which is a safety hazard. While the dryer itself might be working fine, it is warning you to clean your ducts. We can verify the machine’s performance and advise you on clearing the blockage in your home’s venting.
Whirlpool / Maytag / KitchenAid Repair Questions
Is it worth fixing an older Whirlpool direct-drive washer?
Absolutely. The older Whirlpool-built direct-drive washers (also sold under Kenmore and Maytag names) are legendary for their durability. They are simple, robust machines. Repairs are usually straightforward and cost-effective, extending the life of these workhorses for many years.
My KitchenAid dishwasher isn’t cleaning the top rack, why?
KitchenAid dishwashers often use a diverter motor to switch water flow between the upper and lower racks. If this motor fails, or if the seal leading to the upper spray arm is worn, the top rack won’t get enough water pressure. We can inspect the diverter system and the chopper blade assembly to ensure full water circulation.
Bosch Repair Questions
My Bosch dishwasher shows “E15” and won’t stop running, help!
The “E15” code means the leak detection system has activated. Water has gathered in the base pan underneath the unit, causing a float switch to trip. This forces the drain pump to run continuously as a safety measure. We can locate the source of the leak—often a sump seal or valve—and dry out the sensor to reset the machine.
General Brand Questions
Do you service high-end brands like Sub-Zero or Wolf?
Yes, our technicians are experienced with premium and built-in appliances. These units require specialized knowledge of dual-compressor systems and precision temperature controls. We treat these investments with the care they deserve, ensuring we use the correct diagnostic procedures to maintain their performance.
Emergency and Safety Questions
I smell gas near my stove, what should I do?
If you smell gas, safety is the priority. Do not turn any light switches on or off, and do not use a phone near the appliance. Extinguish any open flames. If the smell is strong, evacuate the home immediately and call your gas provider or the fire department from a safe distance. If the smell is faint and only occurs when you turn the burner on, it might be a delayed ignition issue that we can repair, but always err on the side of caution with gas.
My appliance is sparking or smoking, is that dangerous?
Yes, sparking (arcing) or smoke indicates a serious electrical failure. Turn off the appliance immediately. If you can safely reach the circuit breaker panel, turn off the breaker for that specific appliance. Do not attempt to use the machine again until it has been inspected by a professional. This could be a shorted wire, a failing motor, or a burnt control board.
Is there an appliance repair service near me that handles emergencies?
While we do not offer 24-hour emergency service, we prioritize calls involving cooling failures (refrigerators/freezers) and water leaks because of the potential for property damage and food loss. If you are in our service area of Milford, Hopedale, or Mendon, please contact us immediately, and we will do our best to fit you into the schedule as a priority repair.
My washing machine is flooding the floor, how do I stop it?
If your washer is overflowing or leaking heavily, the first step is to cut the water source. Locate the hot and cold water valves on the wall behind the washer and turn them clockwise to shut them off. If you cannot reach them or they are stuck, you may need to shut off the main water valve to your home. Once the water is off, unplug the machine (if safe/dry) and contact us to find the source of the leak.
Conclusion
We hope this FAQ page has helped answer some of your initial questions. At Appliance Repair Pros, we believe in transparent communication and expert service. We are dedicated to keeping the homes in Milford, Massachusetts, and the surrounding Blackstone Valley communities functioning smoothly. Whether you have a minor squeak in your dryer or a major cooling failure in your refrigerator, we have the tools, the training, and the local commitment to solve the problem. Don’t let a broken appliance disrupt your life any longer. Contact us today to schedule your service.
