If you have older appliances the cost of repairs can add up pretty quickly. That’s why many homeowners attempt to fix their appliances on their own. But if you’re going to attempt a repair on your own time and your dime, here are a few dos and don’ts of do it yourself appliance repair that you should consider.
Know the Age of your Appliances
If your appliance is passed a certain age, it may not be worth repairing it at all. Ask yourself: How old is my appliance? Every appliance depending on the type of unit and brand will have a different lifespan to consider. It also depends on how much the appliance has been used and how well it’s been taken care of. For example, dishwashers may only last about a decade while refrigerators, stoves, and dryers could last up to 15 years or longer.
Determine the Costs
Do you know the cost of appliance repair? Think about the price of parts and the tools needed to do the job right. One reason people hire professionals over DIY is that we carry all the expensive specialty tools that you may require only a few times throughout your life.
Warranty Considerations
Before you go out and spend money on parts and tools, make sure you know the details of your appliance warranty. Also, keep in mind that many warranties carry certain conditions that could be voided if it’s clear that you attempted to fix something or replace a part on your own without a licensed professional.
Simple Troubleshooting
If your appliance starts working don’t immediately break it down into a hundred pieces. Take the time to check that it’s not a simple issue holding you back. Look at the unit’s controls and inspect the appliance for any blockages that may be keeping it from working properly.
Perform Maintenance to Minimize Repair Issues
Inspecting, cleaning, and repairing your appliance’s components regularly will ensure extend the life of the unit and save you money on more costly repairs down the line. Also, a properly maintained appliance runs more efficiently, therefore using less energy and helping you save on your monthly utility costs.
Consider Your Abilities
It’s great to tackle projects on your own but it’s important to know your limits. Sometimes attempting repairs on your own can make the problem worse or more expensive. It could also be a dangerous pursuit. Don’t start the repair unless you’re sure that you can do it.
Hiring a Professional
Some repairs just need that professional level of experience that almost no DIY homeowner has. Sometimes the trickiest part is the diagnosis of the issue which requires a trained eye to efficiently evaluate.
Professional Appliance Repair
If after reading these tips you’re not sure if the DIY path is right for you, call up the appliance repair experts at Alpha Tech Appliance. We’re always open with our customers about the appliance repair process with upfront pricing and constant communication throughout the job. Contact us now to get an estimate.