Appliances are an essential component of any well running home or business, as they are used every day.  When they break down, an appliance repair professional is able to quickly come out and restore the item to full working order. As well as repairs, professionals will regularly service your appliances to ensure they run as safely and efficiently as possible.

What do appliance repairers do?

Appliance repairers are skilled professionals who can diagnose and repair various household and commercial appliances. They are experts at troubleshooting and fixing all sorts of equipment, including fridges, washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, air conditioners, microwaves and more.

Appliance repairers understand the inner workings of these common machines and use their knowledge to identify the root causes of any breakdown. They often start by conducting diagnostic tests to pinpoint the specific issue, which may involve testing electrical components or checking for software glitches. Once the problem is identified, your repairer will fix or replace any faulty parts, recalibrate settings and carry out maintenance to ensure the appliance is operating at peak performance.

In addition to their technical skills, appliance repairers can give you some valuable advice about how to properly maintain the item and extend the lifespan of your machines. They may recommend routine cleaning, filter replacements and other preventive measures to help avoid future issues.

Most common reasons appliances break down

Appliances can break down for a variety of reasons, often resulting from a combination of wear and tear, as well as occasional unforeseen issues. Some of the most common reasons appliances break down include:

Age and wear

Appliances have a finite lifespan, and with time, components can wear out or deteriorate. Motors, belts and electrical components may all become less efficient or fail entirely due to extended use.

Lack of maintenance

Poor maintenance – or not maintaining them at all – can cause appliances to break down faster. Neglecting routine tasks like cleaning filters, coils or vents can cause overheating or clogging, which often results in malfunctions.

Overuse or abuse

Overloading, overheating or improper use can place excessive strain on even the most robust appliance. Overloading a washing machine, for example, or subjecting an oven to high-temperature self-cleaning cycles too often can lead to premature breakdowns.

Electrical issues

Voltage spikes and surges can damage sensitive electronics in appliances. Wiring problems or faulty outlets can also contribute to electrical breakdowns.

Water damage

Appliances that come into contact with water, such as dishwashers and washing machines, are more susceptible to leaks and water damage. Watch out for corrosion and short circuits that can be caused by prolonged exposure to moisture.

Component failure

Specific components, such as heating elements in ovens or compressors in fridges, can – and often do – fail over time. They usually require replacement parts to get the appliance working again.

Manufacturer defects

Some appliances may have inherent design or manufacturing flaws that lead to premature breakdowns. In such cases, repairs or replacements may be essential.

Environmental factors

Appliances that are exposed to extreme temperatures or high humidity levels may see accelerated wear and tear.

Pest infestations

Insects and rodents can very easily infiltrate many appliances and cause serious damage to wiring and components.

Safety risks of not getting your appliances repaired ASAP

Delaying any appliance repairs can actually raise safety issues for both yourself and your home. Malfunctioning appliances, especially those involving electrical or heating elements, can very quickly become fire hazards. Faulty wiring, overheating or short circuits may lead to electrical fires that can quickly escalate and cause damage.

Appliances like gas ovens, water heaters or home heating systems can also emit harmful gases if they aren’t working properly. Gas leaks, in particular, can lead to carbon-monoxide exposure, which is a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations.

Appliances that can be repaired or serviced

Almost any appliance can be repaired or serviced whether they are in or out of warranty. Some of the common appliances that professionals worked with include:

• Air conditioners
• Refrigerators
• Washing machines
• Stoves and cooktops
• Dishwashers
• Microwaves
• Ovens
• Range hoods
• Clothes dryers
• Hot water systems
• Heaters

Services provided by appliance repairers

Appliance repair professionals can provide the following services amongst others:

• Emergency services
• Parts and labour warranty
• The ability to service or repair several brands of appliances
• Supply and installation
• Safety checks
• Experienced professionals
• Appliance services

Tips to get more longevity from your appliances

To help get the most from your appliances, here are some tips to improve the performance of some of the most common household appliances.

• Washing machines – do a hot water cycle regularly to help dissolve detergent build ups.
• Dishwashers – clean the basket filters and the holes in the spray arms every few months and have the dishwasher fully serviced every two years to remove germs and grease.
• Fridges and freezers – ensure that there is adequate ventilation behind your fridge and freezer. This will improve performance and conserve electricity.
• Ovens and stoves – clean the oven and stove regularly to remove food spills and grease.
• Clothes dryers – clean the lint filter before every load of clothes to be dried.  Also service your dryer yearly to remove the fluff build up inside.

How much do appliance repairs cost?

Appliance repair costs will vary depending on what type of appliance you need fixed – a fridge is going to cost a lot more than a toaster, for instance. A serious problem will also cost more than minor repairs, and quotes will also depend on the cost of parts and labour.

Expect to pay anywhere from:

• Fridge repair cost: $50 - $500
• Washing machine repair: $80 - $500
• Dryer repair: $100 - $400
• Oven repair: $50 - $150
• Dishwasher repair: $100 - $300
• Small appliance repair (microwave, garbage disposal): $100 - $200

Hiring an appliance repairer

When hiring your appliance repair or service professional, make sure you get a quote on the work that needs to be done. Check that the quote includes the callout fee and the cost of any parts that need to be replaced. Your preferred tradie should also be prepared to guarantee their work for a certain period of time. Always make sure that the professional is licensed and insured.

Here are some questions to ask an appliance repair service before hiring them:

1. Are you licensed and insured for appliance repair services?
2. What types of appliances do you have plenty of experience in repairing?
3. What’s your warranty or guarantee for your repair work, and what does it cover?
4. How do you charge for appliance repairs – and are there any additional fees like parts replacement costs?
5. How long does it usually take to repair an appliance like mine?
6. Do you carry most replacement parts in your service truck, or might there be delays in getting the parts for the repair?