Frequently Asked Questions
Appliance Repair Frequently Asked Questions
At Appliance Repair Pros, we believe that an informed homeowner is a happy homeowner. Over years of serving Shrewsbury, Northborough, Westborough, and the surrounding communities, we have fielded thousands of questions about broken refrigerators, noisy washers, and ovens that won’t heat. We understand that when an appliance breaks, you need answers fast. Below, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the most common questions we receive, categorized by appliance type and brand. Whether you are troubleshooting a Samsung ice maker or wondering why your Bosch dishwasher shows an error code, you will find the answers here.
Our goal is to provide transparency about our process and technical insight into the machines we fix. If you do not see your specific question listed below, please reach out to us for assistance. We are always ready to help you get your home back to normal.
Contact us today to schedule service.
General Service Questions
How soon can you come out to fix my appliance?
We understand that appliance failures are often emergencies. We prioritize scheduling to get a technician to your home as quickly as possible, often offering same-day or next-day appointments depending on our current volume. We serve the entire Shrewsbury area, including the neighborhoods near Dean Park and Lake Quinsigamond, allowing us to route our trucks efficiently to reach you faster.
Do you service my specific area?
We are a locally focused company. We provide appliance repair services to Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and the immediate surrounding towns. This includes Northborough, Westborough, Grafton, Boylston, and the edges of Worcester and Auburn. By keeping our service territory tight, we reduce travel time and increase the time we can spend diagnosing and repairing your equipment.
What should I do before the technician arrives?
To help us work efficiently, please ensure there is a clear path to the appliance. If you have a laundry unit in a tight closet, please remove any hampers or stored items. For refrigerators, you do not need to empty the food unless we specifically ask, but please clear any clutter from the top or sides. If you have pets, please secure them in a separate room for their safety and ours.
Do you repair older appliances?
Yes, we service appliances of all ages. Many older units, particularly Kenmore and Whirlpool models manufactured before 2010, are built with heavy-duty mechanical components that are well worth repairing. We will always provide an honest assessment of the machine’s condition. If a repair is not cost-effective due to the age or availability of parts, we will let you know so you can make an informed decision about replacement.
Refrigerator and Freezer FAQs
Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?
This is the most common call we receive. If the fans are running but the air isn’t cold, it often indicates a problem with the sealed system (compressor or refrigerant leak) or the defrost system. If the defrost heater fails, ice builds up on the evaporator coils, blocking airflow. On modern LG and Kenmore Elite units, this can also indicate a failure of the linear compressor. We can diagnose the specific cause using temperature probes and amp meters.
Why is my ice maker not making ice?
Ice maker failures can stem from temperature issues, water supply problems, or mechanical jams. If your freezer temperature is above 10°F, the ice maker will not cycle. Clogged water filters are another frequent culprit, reducing water pressure so the mold doesn’t fill completely. On Samsung French door models, the ice maker compartment often suffers from air leaks that cause the mechanism to freeze into a solid block.
What causes water to leak onto the kitchen floor?
Leaks usually come from one of three places: the defrost drain, the water inlet valve, or the water filter. If the defrost drain is clogged with debris or ice, water from the defrost cycle will overflow the drain pan and spill onto the floor. If the leak is constant, it may be a cracked water line connecting to the fridge or a failed housing around the water filter.
My refrigerator is making a loud buzzing noise, what is it?
Loud noises typically come from one of the fans or the compressor. A high-pitched whine or buzz often indicates the evaporator fan motor in the freezer is failing or hitting ice buildup. A loud rattling from the back could be the condenser fan hitting debris or a loose compressor mount. If the noise stops when you open the door, it is almost certainly the evaporator fan.
Washing Machine FAQs
Why does my washer smell like mildew?
This is a common issue with front-load washers. Water can get trapped in the folds of the rubber door boot seal and the outer tub, promoting mold growth. We recommend wiping the door seal dry after every use and leaving the door ajar to allow air circulation. Running a monthly “Clean Washer” cycle with a specialized tablet or hot water and bleach helps flush out residue.
Why is my washing machine not spinning the clothes dry?
A washer that won’t spin often has a drainage issue, an unbalanced load, or a mechanical failure. If the water doesn’t drain, the machine won’t spin to protect itself. On Whirlpool and Maytag top loaders, a stripped shift actuator or worn hub can prevent the basket from engaging high speed. On front loaders, worn shock absorbers can cause the machine to sense an imbalance and limit spin speed.
What does the “lid lock” light flashing mean?
On modern top-load washers, the lid must be locked for the machine to spin. If the lid lock light is flashing, the machine has failed a safety check. This could be a bad lock mechanism, a loose strike, or a control board error. The machine will often pause the cycle and refuse to run until the issue is resolved.
Why is my washer vibrating or walking across the floor?
Violent vibration is usually caused by an unlevel floor, unbalanced load, or worn suspension components. Suspension rods in top loaders act like shock absorbers; when they wear out, the tub bangs against the cabinet. On front loaders, broken counterweights or dampers can cause similar issues. We can level the machine and inspect the suspension system.
Dryer FAQs
Why is my dryer running but not heating?
If the drum turns but there is no heat, you likely have a failure in the heating circuit. For electric dryers, this is often a burned-out heating element or a tripped thermal fuse. For gas dryers, it is commonly a weak igniter or defective gas valve coils. We test these components for continuity to identify the break in the circuit.
Why does my dryer take two or three cycles to dry clothes?
Slow drying is almost always a venting issue. If the hot, moist air cannot escape through the vent duct, it stays in the drum, keeping the clothes wet. Check your external vent hood for blockage. If the vent is clear, the internal blower wheel may be stripped, or the moisture sensor strips inside the drum may be coated with fabric softener residue.
Is it safe to use a dryer that is squeaking?
A squeak is a warning sign of mechanical wear. It typically means the drum support rollers, idler pulley, or rear bearing are worn out. Continued use can lead to the drum seizing up or wearing through the metal. We recommend scheduling a repair as soon as the noise begins to prevent more extensive damage.
What is a “thermal fuse” and why does it blow?
A thermal fuse is a safety device designed to cut power to the heat source (or the whole dryer) if the temperature gets dangerously high. The number one cause of a blown thermal fuse is a restricted vent duct. When airflow is blocked, heat builds up, tripping the fuse to prevent a fire. We replace the fuse and help identify the airflow restriction.
Dishwasher FAQs
Why are my dishes coming out dirty?
Poor cleaning performance is often due to water flow restriction. Clogged spray arm holes, a blocked filter, or a failing circulation pump can all reduce water pressure. Hard water in the Shrewsbury area can also cause mineral buildup that clogs jets. We inspect the entire water delivery system, including the diverter motor that switches water between racks.
What does the E15 error code on my Bosch dishwasher mean?
E15 is a specific error for Bosch dishwashers indicating a leak in the base pan. The unit has a safety float that triggers when water accumulates underneath. The drain pump will run continuously. We must locate the source of the leak, which is often a door seal, a loose sump nut, or a water inlet valve.
Why won’t my dishwasher drain?
Standing water in the dishwasher is usually caused by a clog in the drain filter, the drain hose, or the air gap on your sink. It can also be a failed drain pump motor. If you have a garbage disposal, ensure it is clear, as the dishwasher drains into it. Broken glass or food debris can easily jam the pump impeller.
Why is my dishwasher control panel lights flashing?
Flashing lights or unresponsive buttons often indicate a problem with the user interface or the door latch. If the machine thinks the door is open, it won’t start. On some models, a stuck button on the keypad can lock up the entire control board. We can test the ribbon cable connections and the door switch continuity.
Oven and Range FAQs
Why is my gas oven not heating up?
The most common cause of a gas oven not heating is a weak igniter. The igniter must draw enough electrical current to open the gas safety valve. Over time, igniters get weak; they may glow, but not hot enough to open the valve. We replace the igniter to restore proper heating. Other causes include a failed spark module or safety valve.
Why is my electric oven temperature inaccurate?
If your oven is burning cookies or taking too long to roast, the temperature calibration may be off, or a heating element may be failing. Hidden bake elements can burn out without being visible. We test the resistance of the elements and the temperature sensor probe. We can also recalibrate the control board offset to align the temperature.
What does the F10 error code mean on a Frigidaire oven?
F10 indicates a “Runaway Temperature” condition. The oven control board detects that the temperature has exceeded safe limits. This is a safety hazard. It is usually caused by a faulty temperature sensor or a stuck relay on the control board. Stop using the oven immediately and contact us.
Why is my glass cooktop burner not working?
On electric glass top stoves, a burner failure is usually due to the element itself burning out or the infinite switch (the knob control) failing. If the element blisters or bubbles, it is definitely bad. If the element looks fine but won’t heat, the switch is the likely culprit. We can test both components.
Brand Specific FAQs
Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid
Can you fix the roaring noise in my Maytag washer?
Yes, that loud roaring sound during the spin cycle is a classic sign of a tub bearing failure. It is common in Maytag Bravos and Whirlpool Cabrio top loaders. It requires replacing the bearings and the tub seal. We have the specialized press tools to perform this repair correctly.
Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not cleaning the top rack?
KitchenAid dishwashers use a diverter motor to switch water flow to the upper spray arms. If this motor fails or the seal leaks, water pressure to the top rack drops, leaving glasses dirty. We can replace the diverter assembly to restore full cleaning power.
What is the “Jazz Board” repair for Whirlpool fridges?
Older Whirlpool and Amana bottom-freezer refrigerators use a specific control board (nicknamed the Jazz board) that manages the defrost cycle and compressor. When it fails, the fridge often makes a clicking sound or stops cooling. We stock and program these boards frequently.
Samsung and LG
Can you fix the ice maker freezing up on my Samsung fridge?
Yes. The Samsung “Ice Master” freezing issue is a known design challenge. We install an updated service kit that includes a new ice bucket, a sealed auger assembly, and new sealant to prevent warm air infiltration. This is a complex repair but very effective.
What does the “LE” code mean on my LG washer?
“LE” stands for Locked Motor Error. On LG direct-drive washers, this can point to a failed Hall Sensor (Rotor Position Sensor), a wiring harness issue, or the main board. It rarely means the motor itself is dead. We test the sensor and wiring to find the exact break.
Why does my Samsung dryer shut off after a few minutes?
This often happens on sensor dry cycles if the moisture sensor bars are dirty or if the vent is clogged. If the dryer overheats rapidly due to poor airflow, it will shut down to protect itself. We clean the sensors and check the venting system.
Bosch and Miele
Why does my Bosch dishwasher have no heating element?
Bosch uses a condensation drying process. The final rinse water is extremely hot, heating the dishes. The stainless steel tub cools down faster than the dishes, pulling moisture off them. For this to work, you must use rinse aid. If your dishes are wet, check your rinse aid dispenser.
What is the F70 code on a Miele dishwasher?
F70 is the “Waterproof System” fault. It means water has leaked into the base pan of the dishwasher, triggering the safety float. The drain pump runs continuously to prevent flooding. We need to pull the unit out to find the source of the leak, which is often a valve or hose connection.
Do you service Miele TwinDos washing machines?
Yes, we service the Miele W1 series with TwinDos. If the automatic detergent dispensing system clogs, we can flush the lines and restore flow. We recommend running the TwinDos maintenance cycle regularly to prevent this.
GE, Frigidaire, and Kenmore
Who makes my Kenmore appliance?
Kenmore appliances are made by other manufacturers. We identify the maker by the three-digit prefix on the model number. “110” is Whirlpool, “795” is LG, “253” is Frigidaire, and “363” is GE. We use this to ensure we bring the correct parts for your specific machine.
Why is my GE oven fan running constantly?
Modern GE ovens use a cooling fan to protect the electronic control board from heat. It is normal for this fan to run after the oven is turned off until the unit cools down. However, if it runs for hours or makes a loud rattling noise, the fan bearings or the control relay may be failing.
My Frigidaire fridge says “SY EF,” what is that?
“SY EF” stands for System Evaporator Fan. It means the fan in the freezer is not spinning, or the board cannot detect it. This results in a warm fridge section. We test the fan motor and the main board to see which one needs replacement.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance FAQs
Is it worth repairing my appliance or should I replace it?
This is the “50% Rule.” If the repair cost is more than 50% of the price of a new machine, replacement is often better. However, you must also consider the age. A high-end Sub-Zero or Miele is almost always worth repairing. A 15-year-old budget washer might not be. We provide honest guidance based on the expected remaining life of your specific unit.
How can I prevent dryer fires?
The most important step is cleaning your dryer vent ducting (the tube going from the dryer to the outside) at least once a year. Lint builds up in ridges and bends, restricting airflow and creating a fire hazard. Also, always clean the lint screen after every single load. If your dryer feels hotter than usual to the touch, stop using it and call us.
Do I really need to change my refrigerator water filter?
Yes. Over time, filters get clogged with sediment and minerals. A clogged filter reduces water pressure, which can lead to hollow ice cubes, a slow water dispenser, and even ice maker jams. Furthermore, an old filter can become a breeding ground for bacteria. We recommend changing it every 6 months.
How do I stop my washing machine from walking?
First, ensure the machine is perfectly level. Use a bubble level and adjust the feet at the bottom. Second, check your floor. If the floor is weak or flexible (common in second-floor laundry rooms), the vibration will be amplified. If the machine is level and on a solid floor but still shakes violently, the suspension rods or shock absorbers likely need replacement.
Why does my dishwasher leave white film on glasses?
This is usually caused by hard water minerals or using too much detergent. In Shrewsbury, water hardness can vary. We recommend using a high-quality rinse aid (like Jet-Dry) and ensuring your water softener is filled if you have one. Also, switch to a high-quality detergent pod rather than liquid or powder, which can degrade over time.
Local Service FAQs
Do you carry parts on your trucks?
Yes, our trucks are “warehouses on wheels.” We stock the most common functional parts for the major brands we service, including drain pumps, water valves, igniters, and heating elements. Our goal is to complete the repair on the first visit whenever possible. If we need to order a specialty part, we expedite shipping to get back to you quickly.
Are you insured?
Absolutely. We carry full liability insurance to protect your home and property while we are working. We treat your home with the highest level of professional care.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, checks, and cash. Payment is due upon completion of the service.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can reach out to us for assistance by phone or through our website contact form. We will ask for the brand of your appliance and a brief description of the problem to ensure we send the right technician for the job.
Conclusion
At Appliance Repair Pros, we are passionate about solving problems. We know that modern appliances are complex machines that require a blend of mechanical skill and electronic knowledge to fix. Whether you are dealing with a leak, a noise, or a total breakdown, we have the experience to help. We are proud to be Shrewsbury’s trusted choice for appliance repair, serving the community with integrity and technical excellence. If you have a question that wasn’t answered here, or if you are ready to book a repair, please contact us today.
Reach out to us for assistance.