5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Professional Appliance Repair Services Over DIY Repairs: A Homeowner's Guide

Linkny homeowners accidentally shorten their appliance’s lifespan simply by skipping key steps in setup and maintenance. To help you get the most out of your investment, here are the five most common mistakes people make with new appliances — and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Instructions

It sounds obvious, but skipping the manual is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make. Modern appliances come with advanced features, energy-saving settings, and specific installation requirements.

Failing to follow those directions can cause poor performance, void the warranty, or even create safety hazards. For example, some refrigerators need to stand upright for 24 hours before being plugged in, while new washers may require removing shipping bolts before use.

Tip: Always keep the instruction booklet handy or bookmark the digital copy online. It can save you time — and prevent costly service calls later.

2. Poor Installation or Leveling

Many appliances — especially washers, dryers, and refrigerators — need to be perfectly level to work properly. When installed on uneven floors, they can shake, leak, or make loud noises.

DIY installations often overlook proper leveling or water line connections. A tilted washer can wear out bearings, and a crooked fridge door may not seal tightly, wasting energy.

If you’re unsure about setup, hire a certified technician. Professional installation ensures your appliance is connected correctly, balanced, and ready for long-term use.

3. Overloading or Misusing the Appliance

Just because a washer or dishwasher looks spacious doesn’t mean it can handle everything you throw at it. Overloading limits water and airflow, leaving clothes or dishes half-clean and straining the motor.

Similarly, using an appliance for the wrong purpose — like washing heavy rugs in a standard machine or drying shoes in a clothes dryer — can cause internal damage.

Always check the manufacturer’s capacity guidelines. When in doubt, less is more. Running smaller, balanced loads helps your appliance clean better and last longer.

4. Skipping Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Even brand-new appliances need regular care. Food particles, lint, and detergent residue build up over time and affect performance. A neglected dishwasher or washing machine can develop odors or mold within weeks.

Simple cleaning habits make a big difference:

• Wipe refrigerator door seals weekly to keep them airtight.

• Clean your dishwasher filter every month.

• Empty the dryer lint trap after every use.

• Run a cleaning cycle on your washer with vinegar or baking soda once a month.

These small steps prevent breakdowns and keep your appliances working efficiently year-round.

5. Not Registering the Warranty

Most new appliances come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but many homeowners forget to register it. Without registration, you might miss out on free repairs, recall alerts, or extended coverage options.

It only takes a few minutes to register online using the model and serial number. Doing this ensures that if something goes wrong, your warranty is active and your claim will be processed quickly.

Bonus: Some manufacturers offer bonus perks, such as free maintenance reminders or product updates, when you register your appliance.

How to Make Your Appliances Last Longer?

If you’ve just purchased a new appliance, follow these extra tips to protect your investment:

• Use the right products. Choose HE detergent for high-efficiency washers and manufacturer-approved filters or cleaning agents.

• Watch your home’s power supply. Sudden voltage spikes can harm sensitive components. A surge protector is an inexpensive safeguard.

• Don’t ignore warning signs. Strange noises, poor performance, or leaks mean something needs attention — call a professional before it gets worse.

• Schedule routine inspections. Even once a year, a professional checkup can extend appliance life and catch hidden issues early.

When your refrigerator stops cooling or your washer won’t spin, you don’t have time to gamble on the wrong technician. Hiring the right appliance repair company can save you money, stress, and repeat breakdowns. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one to trust?

Here are 10 essential traits to look for before you book your next appliance repair service.

1. Proper Licensing and Certification

Always start by checking credentials. A reliable appliance repair company should hold the necessary licenses and certifications for your state or region.

This ensures that technicians are trained, insured, and meet safety and performance standards. Ask for proof — reputable companies are happy to show it.

⭐️ At Fred’s Appliance, all our technicians are certified and insured.

2. Experience With Multiple Appliance Brands

Not all appliances are built the same. A good repair company should have hands-on experience with a variety of brands and models — from Whirlpool and LG to Samsung and Bosch.

Technicians familiar with different manufacturers can diagnose problems faster and fix them correctly the first time.

Pro tip: Visit the company’s website to see if they list your appliance brand under their service expertise. If you check our home page, you’ll notice that at Fred’s Appliance our technicians are trained for almost all brands.

3. Transparent Pricing

No one likes hidden fees. Choose a repair service that offers clear, upfront pricing before the work begins.

Ask if they charge a diagnostic fee and whether it’s credited toward the repair if you hire them. Honesty about costs builds trust and helps you avoid surprises later.

For example, at Fred’s Appliance, our service call is $59 which covers inspection and diagnosis, even if a repair isn’t needed.

4. Positive Local Reviews and Reputation

Search for the company on Google, Yelp, or Thumbtack. Read what real customers say about their experiences.

Look for patterns: consistent five-star reviews, mentions of professionalism, and quick service are strong indicators you’re in good hands.

Tip: A few bad reviews aren’t a deal-breaker — but repeated complaints about the same issue should raise a red flag.

5. Same-Day or Fast Service Availability

When your fridge breaks down, you can’t wait a week. The best appliance repair companies offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent issues.

Quick response times show reliability and respect for your time — especially for essential appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and washers.

6. Warranties on Parts and Labor

A trustworthy repair service stands by its work. Look for companies that provide warranties on both parts and labor.

This gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong after the repair, you’re covered without extra cost.

7. Professionalism and Communication

From your first call to the final repair, the company’s communication style says a lot. A reliable service will confirm appointments, arrive on time, and explain the issue clearly.

You should never feel rushed or confused about what’s being done. Professionalism goes hand-in-hand with good customer service.

8. Well-Equipped and Trained Technicians

An expert technician should arrive prepared — with tools, parts, and the knowledge to fix most problems on the first visit.

Companies that invest in ongoing training ensure their technicians stay up to date with new appliance technology and diagnostic tools.

Hint: Ask if their technicians are factory-trained or certified by major manufacturers.

9. Local Presence and Community Trust

Hiring a local appliance repair company often means faster service and better accountability. Local technicians understand the community, rely on repeat customers, and are more motivated to maintain a strong reputation.

Plus, choosing local helps support small businesses in your area.

10. Clear Service Guarantee and Follow-Up

A good repair company doesn’t disappear after the job. They’ll follow up to ensure your appliance is working properly and that you’re satisfied.

Look for companies that offer a service guarantee — a promise to make things right if the issue isn’t fully resolved.

Signs You’ve Found the Right Company

• They answer calls promptly and schedule service quickly.

• Technicians arrive in uniform and respect your home.

• They explain your options and give honest recommendations.

• Reviews mention long-term reliability and repeat customers.

If a company checks most of these boxes, you’ve likely found a repair partner you can trust for years to come.

If your dishwasher isn’t doing its job, you’re not alone. Few things are more frustrating than opening the door after a wash cycle and finding dishes still dirty, streaky, or covered in food. The good news? Most cleaning problems have simple causes — and even simpler fixes.

Let’s look at five of the most common reasons your dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly and what you can do to fix them.

1. Clogged or Dirty Spray Arms

The spray arms are the heart of your dishwasher’s cleaning system. They spin and spray water at high pressure to remove food from dishes. Over time, small bits of food, grease, or hard water minerals can block the spray holes, reducing water flow and cleaning power.

To fix this, remove the spray arms and rinse them under warm water. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear out any debris stuck in the holes.

If you live in an area with hard water, soak the spray arms in a mix of vinegar and warm water for about 30 minutes to dissolve mineral buildup.

💡 Pro tip: Make cleaning the spray arms part of your monthly maintenance routine to prevent future blockages.

2. Dirty or Clogged Filter

Your dishwasher filter traps food particles to prevent them from recirculating during the wash cycle. But when it’s clogged, dirty water can’t drain properly — and your dishes won’t come out clean.

Remove the bottom rack and twist out the filter (it’s usually near the drain). Wash it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly before placing it back.

If your dishwasher has a secondary or fine-mesh filter, make sure to clean that too. A clean filter helps water flow freely and improves cleaning efficiency.

3. Not Loading the Dishwasher Correctly

Even a powerful dishwasher can’t perform well if dishes block the spray arms or detergent dispenser. Overloading or improper placement is a common reason for poor cleaning results.

Here’s how to load your dishwasher the right way:

• Top rack: Cups, glasses, small bowls, and plastic items.

• Bottom rack: Plates, pots, pans, and larger dishes.

• Utensil basket: Forks and spoons handle-down; knives handle-up for safety.

Avoid nesting bowls or stacking dishes too close together. Water needs room to circulate and reach every surface.

🛠️ Quick fix: Always spin the spray arms manually before closing the door to make sure nothing blocks their movement.

4. Using the Wrong Detergent or Too Little of It

Not all detergents are created equal. Using the wrong type — or not enough — can leave a greasy film or food residue on your dishes.

Always use detergent made specifically for automatic dishwashers, and check the packaging for dosing instructions. Powder, pod, or gel — whichever you prefer — make sure it’s designed for your water hardness level.

If you have hard water, consider adding a rinse aid or water softener. This prevents mineral deposits and helps your dishwasher clean and dry more effectively.

💡 Tip: Store detergent in a cool, dry place. Moisture can cause clumping, reducing its cleaning power.

5. Low Water Temperature or Pressure Problems

Hot water is crucial for breaking down grease and dissolving detergent. If your dishwasher isn’t getting water hot enough (at least 120°F or 49°C), it can’t clean effectively.

To test this, run your kitchen sink’s hot water for a minute before starting the dishwasher. This ensures hot water fills the unit right away.

If the water temperature is fine but your dishwasher still struggles, check for low water pressure or a kinked supply hose. Clogged inlet valves can also reduce water flow and should be inspected by a technician if needed.

Bonus Tip: Clean the Dishwasher Itself

Even dishwashers need cleaning! Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack. This removes grease and soap buildup inside the machine.

For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle. Your dishwasher will smell clean and perform better.

When to Call a Professional?

If you’ve checked all these areas and your dishes are still coming out dirty, the issue may be deeper — such as a faulty pump, heating element, or motor. In that case, it’s best to schedule a professional appliance diagnostic service.

An expert can identify the root cause quickly and help you decide whether repair or replacement makes more sense.