15 Easy Appliance Repairs You Can Do Yourself

Fixing appliances can seem hard, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can save money and learn new skills. Our guides for 15 common appliance repairs help you become your own handyman. You can fix simple to complex tasks with confidence.

Before starting any repair, check the owner’s manual and watch DIY videos online. These help you understand the problem and how to fix it. Our guides cover many appliances, like refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, and dishwashers.

Doing your own appliance repairs saves money and helps the planet. It cuts down on waste and makes your appliances last longer. Our guides cover many small appliances, like coffee grinders, microwaves, toasters, blenders, and electric shavers.

Appliance Problems and Simple DIY Fixes

When you face appliance issues, take a moment to think it over before calling a pro. Often, the fix is simpler than you might think. By figuring out the main cause and using basic DIY fixes, you can save time and money. You’ll also get your appliances working again.

Identifying Simple Solutions

Start by looking at the simplest reasons for your appliance’s problem. Some easy fixes include:

• Appliance is unplugged or not getting power.
• Circuit breaker has tripped.
• Water supply is off.
• Reset button needs to be pressed.

Checking these simple things first can often fix the issue. In fact, many appliance repairs are easy fixes like pressing a button or flipping a switch.

Using Online Resources for Troubleshooting

If you need more help with your appliance, use online resources. The internet has lots of info on fixing common appliance problems. Use:

• Online repair videos that show how to fix things step-by-step.
• Appliance repair forums and message boards for questions and advice.
• Manufacturer websites with troubleshooting guides for your appliance.
• Live chat or email support from appliance experts for advice.

These online tools can give you the knowledge and confidence to fix many appliance issues yourself. You can find help for things like clearing a dishwasher’s drain hose or replacing a washing machine’s lid switch.

Essential Tools and Parts for Appliance Repairs

Before starting any appliance repair, make sure you have the right tools and parts. The tools you need can change based on the appliance and the repair type. But, there are some key items every DIY repair person should keep in their toolkit.

Basic Tools Required

Here are the basic tools you should have:

• Screwdriver set (flathead and Phillips).
• Nut driver set.
• Wrench set.
• Adjustable open-end wrench.
• Multimeter (for testing electrical continuity).
• Pliers (needle-nose and adjustable).
• Putty knife.
• Work gloves.
• Safety goggles.
• Thread-sealing tape.

Some repairs might need special tools. For a fridge, you might need a thermometer, tube cutter, and more. Always check the repair guide for your appliance to know what tools you need.

Sourcing Replacement Parts

Finding the right parts is as crucial as having the right tools. Here are places to look for parts:

• Local appliance parts distributors.
• Online retailers like RepairClinic.com and ereplacementparts.com.
• Manufacturer’s website or authorized service centers.
• Amazon or eBay for rare or old parts.

Always check the part number and make sure it fits your appliance. Compare the new part with the old one for a good fit. Choose parts from trusted brands for quality and long life. With the right tools and parts, you can fix many DIY appliance repairs. This saves you time and money.

Safety Precautions Before Starting Appliance Repairs

Before you start fixing appliances, make sure you’re safe. Experts say 100% of guides tell you to turn off the power first. This step stops electrical dangers and accidents.

Use the following safety gear:

• Nonslip footwear.
• Safety glasses.
• Work gloves.
• Knee pads.
• Back support.

For outdoor or power tool repairs, add ear protection, a full-face shield, and sunscreen to your kit. Don’t wear loose clothes, remove jewelry, and keep long hair tied back to avoid accidents.

Know what you’re doing and what tools you need before starting. Learn about new tools to use them safely. Always make sure a ladder is on a stable surface and don’t lean or stretch too far.

Check electrical cords for any damage or cracks. Use cords that match the wattage and environment. Appliances near water should have special outlets for safety.

Gas appliance users should check hoses and seals often. This helps prevent dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning. If you’re unsure about electrical work, it’s best to call a pro.

Fix Any Appliance

15 Appliance Repairs You Can Do Yourself

With some knowledge and the right tools, you can fix many common appliance issues by yourself. Doing DIY appliance repair saves money and cuts down on waiting for a pro. Here are 15 easy fixes for everyday appliance troubles:

• Fixing a Dishwasher That Won’t Clean Properly
• Replacing the Water Inlet Valve in a Dishwasher
• Recalibrating Oven Temperature
• Replacing Faulty Heating Elements in an Oven
• Fixing Drainage and Spinning Issues in Washing Machines
• Replacing the Lid Switch in a Washing Machine
• Leveling the Washing Machine
• Replacing the Evaporator Fan Motor in Refrigerators
• Cleaning Condenser Coils in Refrigerators
• Replacing the Heating Element in Electric Dryers
• Cleaning Lint Buildup in Dryer Venting Systems
• Replacing the Diode or Magnetron in Microwaves
• Cleaning or Replacing the Igniter on Gas Stoves
• Clearing Jams in Garbage Disposals
• Replacing the Door Gasket on Refrigerators

1. Fixing a Dishwasher That Won’t Clean Properly

Here are the problems you might encounter:

• Dishes Not Getting Clean: Dishes come out with food residue.
• Spotty Glassware: Glasses appear cloudy or have spots.
• Poor Rinsing: Detergent is not fully rinsed off.

Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check Spray Arms: Ensure spray arms are clean and free from debris or hard water deposits. Remove and clean them if necessary.
2. Clean the Filter: Locate and clean the dishwasher filter to remove food particles or debris blocking water flow.
3. Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a dishwasher cleaner to remove grease, limescale, and odors.
4. Use Proper Detergent: Ensure you use the correct type and amount of dishwasher detergent suitable for your model and water hardness.

2. Replacing the Water Inlet Valve in a Dishwasher

Here is what can cause the problem:

• Poor Water Flow: Water doesn’t fill the dishwasher properly.
• No Water at All: Dishwasher is not getting any water.

Here’s how to address this problem:

1. Turn off the power and water supply to the dishwasher.
2. Locate the water inlet valve at the bottom near the front.
3. Disconnect the wiring harness and unscrew the valve from its bracket.
4. Secure the new valve, reconnect the wiring harness, and ensure all connections are tight with no leaks.
5. Restore power and water and test the dishwasher.

3. Recalibrating Oven Temperature

Your appliance may do this:

• Inconsistent Cooking Times: Food takes longer or shorter than expected to cook.
• Uneven Baking: Some areas of the oven are hotter or cooler than others.

Use these steps to correct the temperature:

1. Place an accurate oven thermometer in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F.
2. After 20 minutes, compare the oven’s temperature readout to the thermometer.
3. Adjust the oven’s temperature dial or settings to match the thermometer reading according to your oven’s manual.

4. Replacing Faulty Heating Elements in an Oven

Here are the problems you might see:

• Oven Not Heating: The oven does not reach the set temperature.
• Uneven Heating: Certain areas of the oven are not heating properly.

To fix this issue, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power supply to the oven.
2. Remove the oven racks and locate the heating element at the bottom of the oven.
3. Unscrew the element and disconnect the wires.
4. Connect the wires to the new element, secure it with screws, and replace the oven racks.
5. Restore power and test the oven.

5. Fixing Drainage and Spinning Issues in Washing Machines

Your appliance may do this:

• Not Draining: Water remains in the drum after the cycle ends.
• Not Spinning: The drum doesn’t spin during the spin cycle.

Steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check the Lid Switch: Ensure the lid switch is functioning by testing it with a multimeter.
2. Replace the Lid Switch: If faulty, replace the lid switch by unscrewing it and connecting a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Replacing the Lid Switch in a Washing Machine

Here is what can cause the problem:

• No Spin Cycle: The washer doesn’t enter the spin cycle.
• Not Draining: Water doesn’t drain from the machine.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power source.
2. Locate the lid switch under the lid or near the door.
3. Unscrew the switch and disconnect the wires.
4. Connect the new switch, secure it with screws, and plug in the washer.
5. Run a cycle to ensure the switch is working correctly.

7. Leveling the Washing Machine

Your appliance may do this:

• Excessive Vibration: The washing machine shakes or moves during the spin cycle.
• Loud Noise: The machine makes loud noises during operation.

Steps to solve this problem:

1. Adjust the legs using a wrench until the washing machine sits level on the floor.
2. Place a bubble level on top of the machine to check for balance in all directions.
3. Ensure the legs are locked in place and the machine is stable.

8. Replacing the Evaporator Fan Motor in Refrigerators

Here are the problems you might encounter:

• Noisy Operation: The refrigerator makes unusual noises.
• Poor Cooling: The refrigerator or freezer isn’t cooling properly.

To fix this issue, proceed as follows:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
2. Remove the rear panel inside the freezer to locate the evaporator fan motor.
3. Unscrew the motor, disconnect the fan blade, and unplug the electrical connectors.
4. Connect the new motor, secure it with screws, and reattach the fan blade and electrical connectors.
5. Replace the rear panel, plug in the fridge, and test the motor.

9. Cleaning Condenser Coils in Refrigerators

Here is what can cause the problem:

• Constant Running: The refrigerator runs continuously.
• Not Cooling Properly: The refrigerator isn’t maintaining the set temperature.

Follow these steps to clean the coils:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
2. Locate the condenser coils, usually behind a grille at the front or back of the fridge.
3. Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the coils.
4. For heavily soiled coils, apply a coil cleaner as directed by the manufacturer.
5. Plug the fridge back in and check its performance.

10. Replacing the Heating Element in Electric Dryers

Your appliance may do this:

• No Heat: The dryer runs, but clothes don’t dry.
• Inconsistent Heating: The dryer heats sporadically or unevenly.

Steps to fix the problem:

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.
2. Remove the back panel of the dryer to access the heating element.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element.
4. Unscrew and remove the faulty heating element.
5. Secure the new heating element with screws and reconnect the wires.
6. Replace the back panel, plug in the dryer, and test for proper heating.

11. Cleaning Lint Buildup in Dryer Venting Systems

Here are the problems you might see:

• Long Drying Times: Clothes take too long to dry.
• Overheating: The dryer feels unusually hot during operation.

Here’s how to resolve this issue:

1. Turn off the dryer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Move the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the vent hose.
3. Use a vacuum or brush to remove lint and debris from the vent hose.
4. Use a vacuum to clean the wall duct of lint buildup.
5. Reconnect the vent hose to the dryer and wall.
6. Plug in the dryer and check its drying efficiency.

12. Replacing the Diode or Magnetron in Microwaves

Here is what can cause the problem:

• No Heating: The microwave runs but doesn’t heat food.
• Strange Noises: The microwave makes unusual sounds during operation.

To address this issue, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the microwave from the power source.
2. Use an insulated tool to discharge the high-voltage capacitor.
3. Remove the outer cover of the microwave.
4. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the diode and magnetron. If either part is faulty, proceed with replacement.
5. Disconnect and unscrew the faulty diode or magnetron.
6. Secure the new diode or magnetron in place and reconnect the wires.
7. Replace the outer cover, plug in the microwave, and test for heating.

13. Cleaning or Replacing the Igniter on Gas Stoves

Your appliance may do this:

• Burner Not Lighting: The gas burner doesn’t ignite.
• Weak Flame: The burner flame is weak or uneven.

Follow these steps to fix the problem:

1. Turn off the gas supply to the stove.
2. Remove the burner grates and caps.
3. Use a brush to clean the igniter and surrounding area.
4. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the igniter. If faulty, proceed with replacement.
5. Disconnect the wires and unscrew the old igniter. Install the new igniter and reconnect the wires.
6. Replace the burner caps and grates, turn on the gas supply, and test the burner.

14. Clearing Jams in Garbage Disposals

Here are the problems you might encounter:

• Jammed Disposal: The disposal doesn’t run or makes a humming noise.
• Slow Draining: Water drains slowly from the sink.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Unplug the garbage disposal from the power source.
2. Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the hex socket at the bottom of the disposal. Turn the wrench back and forth to free the impellers.
3. Use tongs to remove any visible debris inside the disposal.
4. Press the reset button located on the bottom of the unit.
5. Plug in the disposal and run water to test its operation.

15. Replacing the Door Gasket on Refrigerators

Here is what can cause the problem:

• Poor Seal: The refrigerator door doesn’t close properly.
• Frost Build-Up: Excess frost or ice forms inside the refrigerator.

To fix this issue, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the door gasket for signs of wear, cracks, or damage.
2. Purchase a replacement gasket that matches your refrigerator model.
3. Pull the old gasket away from the door, starting at one corner.
4. Align the new gasket with the door frame and press it into place, ensuring a snug fit all around.
5. Close the door and check for proper sealing. Make adjustments if necessary.

Appliance Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Problems

Keeping your household appliances in good shape is key. By following simple tips, you can make them last longer, avoid breakdowns, and save money.

Regular Cleaning and Upkeep

Regular cleaning is a great way to keep appliances running well. Here are some tasks to add to your routine:

• Clean refrigerator condenser coils once a year, or every 6 months if pets are around.
• Change refrigerator water filters every 6 months.
• Clean dishwasher drain baskets every month.
• Wash washing machine tubs often to stop mold and mildew from growing.
• Vacuum dryer vents and lint traps after each use.
• Clean toaster crumb trays every week.
• Clean stovetop drip bowls regularly.
• Deodorize garbage disposals periodically.

Identifying Potential Issues Early

Spotting problems early is key to avoiding big repairs. Pay attention to how your appliances work and fix small issues fast. Watch for these signs:

• Strange noises or vibrations from your appliances.
• Leaks or puddles near your dishwasher, washing machine, or fridge.
• Uneven heating or cooling in your oven or fridge.
• Longer cycles in your washing machine or dryer.
• Frayed or damaged power cords on any appliance.

When to Call a Professional Appliance Repair Technician

Some appliance repairs can be done by yourself. But, there are times when you should call a pro. Issues like gas lines, high-voltage parts, or many circuit boards need a skilled technician.

About 80% of people hire experts for these tough problems instead of fixing them themselves. If your appliance is still under warranty, you must use a licensed technician. This keeps your warranty valid.

Technicians get special training and certification. This makes them good at fixing complex issues quickly. Trying repairs you’re not good at can cause more harm or be dangerous. Licensed techs focus on safety and follow strict rules to avoid accidents.

If you’re unsure about a repair, check your appliance’s manual or call a trusted repair company. Their help can save you time, money, and prevent risks.