Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Appliance Repair Pros
At Appliance Repair Pros, we believe that an informed homeowner is a happy homeowner. A broken appliance is more than just a mechanical failure; it is a disruption to your daily life. When your refrigerator stops cooling or your washing machine refuses to spin, you have questions. You want to know what is wrong, why it happened, and how quickly it can be fixed. Below, we have compiled an extensive library of frequently asked questions covering our general operations, specific appliance repair services, and the major brands we service in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
Whether you are troubleshooting a Whirlpool dryer that won’t heat or a Samsung refrigerator with a frozen ice maker, you will find valuable insights here. Our goal is to provide transparency and demonstrate the depth of our expertise in the home appliance industry.
General Service Questions
How do I know if my appliance is worth repairing?
This is the most common question we receive from homeowners in Lawrence. The decision to repair or replace depends on several critical factors: the age of the unit, the physical condition of the appliance, and the nature of the mechanical failure. As a general rule, if an appliance is less than ten years old and has been well-maintained, repairing it is almost always the most logical choice. High-quality appliances from brands like Whirlpool, Bosch, and Miele are built to last, and often a single component failure—like a heating element, a drain pump, or a control board—is the only thing standing between you and years of continued service.
We generally apply the “50% Rule”: if the cost of the repair is less than 50% of the price of a comparable new machine, repair is the smart financial move. Additionally, you must consider the “hidden” costs of replacement, such as delivery fees, installation costs, and the hassle of disposing of the old unit. Repairing is also the environmentally friendly choice, keeping heavy machinery and non-biodegradable materials out of landfills. Our technicians provide an honest, pressure-free assessment of your specific unit. If we believe a machine is nearing the end of its useful life, we will tell you so you can make the best decision for your home.
Do you service gas and electric appliances?
Yes, our team is fully trained and certified to service both gas and electric household appliances. We understand the distinct safety and operational requirements for each fuel type. For gas appliances, such as ranges, cooktops, and dryers, we focus heavily on the ignition systems, gas valves, safety sensors, and airflow to ensure safe combustion and prevent leaks. We are equipped to handle natural gas and liquid propane (LP) conversions and repairs.
For electric appliances, troubleshooting often involves tracing high-voltage circuits, testing heating elements for continuity, and diagnosing complex electronic control boards. Whether you have a dual-fuel professional range or a standard electric clothes dryer, we have the tools and expertise to handle the repair safely and effectively.
What areas do you service?
Appliance Repair Pros is proud to be a locally owned and operated business serving Lawrence, Massachusetts, and the surrounding Merrimack Valley region. We are not a distant call center; we are your neighbors. We actively service neighborhoods throughout Lawrence (North and South), as well as the surrounding communities of Methuen, Haverhill, Andover, North Andover, and Groveland. Our goal is to provide prompt, local service. If you are unsure if your home falls within our service territory, please reach out to us, and we will be happy to verify coverage.
How quickly can you get a technician to my home?
We understand that a broken appliance is an emergency. A freezer full of thawing food or a pile of wet laundry constitutes an urgent situation. We strive to offer prompt appointment availability to address your needs as quickly as possible. Our scheduling team works diligently to fit you in, often providing same-day or next-day service options when our schedule permits. We prioritize critical failures, such as refrigerators that have stopped cooling or active water leaks, to minimize property damage and food loss.
Do you offer a warranty on your repairs?
Absolutely. We stand behind the quality of our work and the parts we use. We offer a comprehensive warranty on both parts and labor for every repair we perform. This gives you peace of mind knowing that if the same component fails again within the warranty period, we will return to fix it at no extra cost to you. We use only high-quality, manufacturer-approved parts to ensure the longevity and performance of your appliance.
Refrigerator and Freezer FAQs
Why is my refrigerator running constantly?
A refrigerator that runs continuously without cycling off is usually struggling to reach its set temperature. This is inefficient, drives up your energy bill, and puts excessive wear on the compressor. The most frequent cause is dirty condenser coils. These coils are responsible for dispersing the heat removed from the fridge. If they are covered in dust, pet hair, or grease, the system cannot cool efficiently and must run non-stop to compensate.
Other common causes include a failing door seal (gasket) that allows warm room air to enter, or a defrost system failure. If the defrost heater or timer fails, ice will build up on the evaporator coils inside the freezer, blocking airflow and insulating the coils. We can clean your coils, replace worn seals, and troubleshoot the defrost system to restore your refrigerator’s efficiency.
Why is there water leaking on the floor in front of my fridge?
Water pooling in front of or inside the refrigerator is typically caused by a clogged defrost drain. When your fridge goes into a defrost cycle (usually once or twice a day), the melting ice drips into a trough and down a tube to a pan beneath the unit where it evaporates. If the drain tube becomes blocked by food debris, mold, or ice, the water overflows the trough and runs into the fresh food compartment or onto the floor.
Another potential source is a leaking water supply line. If the plastic tubing connecting your fridge to the house water supply cracks or if the water inlet valve fails, you may see water pooling behind or under the unit. We can clear drain blockages using steam and specialized tools, and we can replace damaged tubing and valves to stop the leak permanently.
My freezer is cold, but the fresh food section is warm. What is wrong?
This “split temperature” issue is a classic sign of an airflow problem. In most modern refrigerators, the cold air is actually generated in the freezer compartment. A fan (the evaporator fan) pushes this cold air through a vent and into the fresh food section. If this evaporator fan motor fails, the cold air stays trapped in the freezer, keeping it frozen while the fridge warms up.
Alternatively, the air damper—a small motorized door that controls the amount of air flowing between compartments—may be stuck in the closed position. It can also indicate a defrost failure where heavy frost accumulation physically blocks the air passage between the two sections. We test the fan, damper, and defrost components to get the air moving correctly again.
Why is my ice maker not producing ice?
Ice maker failures are incredibly common and can stem from a variety of issues. First, check if the bail arm is in the “down” or “on” position. If it is on but not working, the water inlet valve may be faulty, preventing water from filling the ice mold. Another common issue is a frozen fill tube. If water pressure is low, water can trickle into the tube and freeze before reaching the tray, creating a blockage.
In some cases, the ice maker module itself has a mechanical failure and cannot turn the ejector rakes to push the ice out. On modern French door fridges, issues with the ice compartment seal can allow warm air in, causing the mechanism to freeze up solid (a known issue with some Samsung and LG models). We can replace valves, clear frozen tubes, reseal compartments, or install new ice maker assemblies.
Washing Machine FAQs
Why does my washing machine smell like mildew?
A musty or mildew smell is particularly common in high-efficiency (HE) front-load washers. Because these machines use less water and seal tightly, moisture, detergent residue, and fabric softener can build up in the door gasket (boot) and the outer tub. This creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
To combat this, we recommend running a monthly “Clean Washer” cycle with hot water and a specialized washer cleaner tablet (like Affresh). We also manually clean the drain pump filter, which can trap lint and debris that holds stagnant water. Leaving the door slightly ajar between cycles allows air to circulate and dries out the tub, preventing odor.
Why is my washer vibrating or shaking violently?
Violent shaking usually indicates an unbalanced load or a suspension failure. If the machine is overloaded with heavy items like bedding or towels, they can clump on one side, causing the tub to bang against the cabinet. However, if it shakes even with small loads, the mechanical suspension components have likely failed.
In top loaders, this is often due to worn suspension rods or dampening straps. In front loaders, it usually points to failed shock absorbers or broken tub springs. Additionally, the machine must be perfectly level on the floor. We can replace worn suspension components and level the unit to ensure smooth, quiet operation.
My washer won’t drain. What should I do?
A washer that refuses to drain is often caused by a physical blockage in the drain system. Small items like socks, coins, face masks, or excessive lint can clog the drain pump filter or the hose leading to the wall. It can also be caused by a kinked drain hose behind the machine.
If the path is clear, the drain pump motor itself may have failed or the impeller may be broken. We are skilled at manually draining the unit to prevent a flood and accessing the pump to clear debris or replace the motor. We also check the lid switch (on top loaders), as some machines will not drain if they detect the lid is open.
Why won’t my washing machine spin the clothes dry?
If the wash cycle completes but the clothes are soaking wet, the high-speed spin cycle did not engage or reach full speed. In top loaders, this can be caused by a worn clutch, a broken motor coupling, or a failed shift actuator (common in Whirlpool VMW models). In front loaders, it might point to a stretched drive belt or a motor control board issue.
Sometimes, the door latch is the culprit; if the machine cannot verify the door is securely locked, it will not enter the dangerous high-speed spin mode as a safety precaution. We diagnose the drive system, motor, and safety interlocks to fix the issue.
Dryer FAQs
Why is my dryer running but not heating?
This is the most frequent dryer repair we perform in Lawrence. If the drum is turning but the air is cold, the heating system has failed. In electric dryers, the heating element is a metal coil that can break over time due to expansion and contraction stress. If the coil breaks, the circuit is open, and no heat is produced.
In gas dryers, the issue is often the igniter (which must glow hot enough to light the gas) or the gas valve solenoids (coils). Additionally, a safety device called a thermal fuse may have blown due to overheating. A blown thermal fuse will cut power to the heater (or the entire motor in gas units) to prevent a fire. We test the entire heating circuit to identify the failed component.
Why does my dryer take multiple cycles to dry clothes?
Extended drying times are almost always an airflow issue. Your dryer needs to push a large volume of hot, moist air out of your home. If your home’s vent line is clogged with lint, crushed behind the machine, or too long, that moisture stays in the drum, leaving clothes damp and hot.
This is also a serious fire hazard. We recommend checking your external vent hood for blockages. Inside the dryer, we check the blower wheel for lint buildup and test the moisture sensors. If the sensors are coated in dryer sheet residue, they may falsely signal that the clothes are dry, causing the cycle to end too early.
Why is my dryer making a loud squeaking or thumping noise?
Dryers rely on support rollers and a rear bearing to hold the heavy drum as it spins. Over time, these drum rollers can develop flat spots (causing a rhythmic thumping noise) or the axles can dry out (causing squealing). The idler pulley, which puts tension on the drive belt, can also seize up and create a high-pitched squeal.
Ignoring these noises can lead to the belt snapping or the motor burning out due to increased friction. We perform a “dryer maintenance kit” service where we replace the rollers, belt, and idler pulley to restore the unit to whisper-quiet operation.
Dishwasher FAQs
Why is my dishwasher not cleaning the dishes?
Poor cleaning is often related to water distribution and temperature. If the spray arm holes are clogged with food seeds, glass shards, or hard water deposits, water cannot reach the dishes with enough force to scrub them clean. The wash pump impeller might also be damaged, reducing overall water pressure.
Another common cause is a failure of the detergent dispenser to open during the cycle. We also verify that the water is getting hot enough (at least 120°F). If the heating element is burnt out, the water remains lukewarm, which is insufficient for dissolving detergent and breaking down grease. We inspect the spray arms, filter system, circulation pump, and heater to ensure your dishwasher washes effectively.
Why does my dishwasher have water in the bottom after the cycle?
Standing water indicates a drainage failure. This is often caused by a clogged filter at the bottom of the tub or a blockage in the drain hose where it connects to the sink or garbage disposal. If you recently installed a new garbage disposal, the “knockout plug” might still be in place, blocking the dishwasher drain.
If the drain path is clear, the drain pump motor may be burnt out or jammed with debris. We can clear these blockages and test the pump. Note: A small amount of water (about a cup) in the sump area is normal to keep seals moist, but water covering the filter screen is a problem.
Why is my dishwasher leaking onto the floor?
Leaks can originate from several places. The most common is the door gasket; if it gets ripped, brittle, or filled with gunk, it cannot seal against the tub. The water inlet valve can also leak, sometimes even when the machine is off, causing the tub to overfill and spill out.
Another potential source is the pump seal underneath the unit or a loose hose clamp. We inspect the door seal, the hoses, the float switch, and the pump assembly to locate and fix the leak before it damages your kitchen floor.
Oven, Range, and Cooktop FAQs
Why is my oven not heating to the correct temperature?
Temperature inaccuracies are often caused by a drifting temperature sensor. Over time, the electrical resistance of the sensor changes, telling the computer the oven is hot when it is actually cool (or vice versa). It can also be caused by a weak bake element (electric) or a weak igniter (gas) that is not providing full heat.
We can often recalibrate the oven controls (offsets) to correct minor variances. For major issues, we replace the sensor, igniter, or control board to ensure your baking results are consistent.
Why won’t my gas burner light?
If your gas burner clicks but does not ignite, first check the burner cap alignment and ensure the burner is dry. Moisture from cleaning is a common cause of ignition failure. If it is dry and aligned, the spark electrode may be cracked (grounding the spark elsewhere) or the spark module may have failed.
We also check for clogged burner ports. If grease or food debris blocks the small holes where gas exits, the gas cannot reach the spark to ignite. We clean the burners and replace faulty ignition components.
Is it safe to use the self-cleaning cycle?
The self-cleaning cycle uses extreme heat (often over 900°F) to burn off food residue. While convenient, this intense heat can stress older components. It is not uncommon for a thermal fuse to blow or a control board to overheat and fail during a self-clean cycle, locking the door and killing the oven.
We generally recommend manual cleaning for older units to avoid this risk. If your oven locked and died during a self-clean cycle, we can manually unlock the door and replace the thermal safety devices to get it running again.
Brand-Specific FAQs
At Appliance Repair Pros, we service a vast array of brands. Here are answers to common questions regarding the specific manufacturers we handle.
Whirlpool Appliance Repair
Do you service Whirlpool Cabrio washers?
Yes, we are experts in the vertical modular washer (VMW) design used in the Cabrio line. We fix common issues like the F51 error (rotor position sensor) and loud roaring noises caused by tub bearing failure.
Can you fix a Whirlpool refrigerator that isn’t defrosting?
Absolutely. Defrost issues are common in top-freezer and bottom-freezer Whirlpool units. We troubleshoot the “Jazz” control board, the bi-metal thermostat, and the defrost heater to stop ice buildup.
Samsung Appliance Repair
Why is my Samsung ice maker freezing up?
This is a known issue with Samsung French door refrigerators. Warm air enters the ice compartment, causing condensation that freezes the mechanism. We perform a comprehensive service that involves sealing the ice room, replacing the ice maker with an updated version, and installing new auger motor clips.
Do you fix Samsung washer calibration issues?
Yes. If your Samsung washer is shaking or displaying unbalanced load errors (UE/dc), we can inspect the suspension rods and recalibrate the Vibration Reduction Technology (VRT) sensors.
LG Appliance Repair
Do you service LG Linear Compressors?
Yes, we are familiar with the specific testing procedures for LG Linear Compressors found in their refrigerators. We can diagnose “cooling events” where the compressor runs but fails to pump refrigerant, and replace the unit if necessary.
Can you fix an LG washer with an LE error code?
The LE code stands for Locked Rotor. This is often caused by a failure of the Hall Sensor (rotor position sensor) on the direct drive motor. We carry the necessary sensors to fix this common issue on both front and top load LG units.
GE Appliance Repair
Do you repair GE Monogram and Profile appliances?
Yes, we service the entire GE family, including the high-end Monogram and Profile lines. We are experienced with the dual-evaporator systems in Profile fridges and the Advantium speed-cooking technology.
Why is my GE dishwasher not draining?
We often see issues with the drain pump or the piston nut in the check valve assembly on older GE models. We can upgrade these components to ensure proper drainage.
Maytag Appliance Repair
Can you repair Maytag “Commercial Technology” washers?
Maytag washers are built to be tough, but even they need service. We frequently replace the lid lock assembly and the splutch cam on Bravos series washers to fix spin issues.
Why is my Maytag oven not heating?
We troubleshoot the ignition system in gas units and the hidden bake elements in electric units. We also service the Gemini double oven ranges which have two separate cavities.
Kenmore Appliance Repair
Do you service Kenmore appliances even though Sears is gone?
Yes, absolutely. Kenmore appliances were built by major manufacturers like Whirlpool, LG, and Frigidaire. Our technicians are experts at identifying who built your specific unit (based on the model prefix) and sourcing the correct OEM parts for repair.
Can you fix a Kenmore Elite refrigerator?
Kenmore Elite fridges are often rebadged LG units. We are skilled at repairing the linear compressors and grab-n-go door features found on these models.
Frigidaire Appliance Repair
Why is my Frigidaire oven beeping and showing an F1 code?
The F1 code usually indicates a control board failure or a stuck keypad. We can replace the overlay or the electronic oven control (EOC) to stop the beeping and restore function.
Do you service Frigidaire Gallery dishwashers?
Yes, we troubleshoot the common “i20” (drain) and “i30” (leak detection) errors found on Frigidaire Gallery and Professional dishwashers.
KitchenAid Appliance Repair
My KitchenAid dishwasher is not washing the top rack. Can you fix it?
This is often caused by a failure of the chopper assembly or the diverter motor. We can inspect the pump and the water distribution system to ensure the top rack gets full water pressure.
Do you repair KitchenAid built-in refrigerators?
Yes, we service the large built-in KitchenAid models. We address sealed system issues, main control board failures, and ice maker malfunctions in these premium units.
Bosch Appliance Repair
Why is my Bosch dishwasher showing an E15 error?
The E15 error indicates a leak in the base pan. Bosch units have a safety float that detects water and shuts the system down. We can locate the internal leak—often a pump seal or diverter valve—and repair it.
Do you service Bosch condensation dryers?
Yes, we are familiar with Bosch ventless (condensation) dryers. We can clean the heat exchanger and troubleshoot the pump system if the dryer is taking too long to dry clothes.
Miele Appliance Repair
Do you work on Miele Honeycomb washers?
Yes, Miele washers are precision machines. We can troubleshoot the Waterproof System, the motor control circuits, and the TwinDos dispensing system.
Can you fix a Miele dishwasher intake/drain error?
We are experienced with the F11 (drain) and F13 (intake) faults. We check the specialized non-return valves and flow meters used in Miele dishwashers to restore operation.
Conclusion
At Appliance Repair Pros, we handle it all. From the latest smart appliances to the trusty machines that have served you for decades, our mission is to provide high-quality, reliable repair services to the Lawrence community. We hope this FAQ page has answered your questions and demonstrated our commitment to excellence.
If you have a specific concern not addressed here, or if you are ready to schedule service, please reach out to us. Our team is ready to help you get your home running smoothly again.
Contact us today for assistance.
