Today, many homeowners are do it yourself people. Since service calls can be very expensive, many save a lot of money handling simple maintenance and small repairs themselves. When it comes to appliances, some people get a little nervous. However, there are a few simple things you can check out before calling in a professional.
The first step may seem obvious, but it makes sense to check. Begin by making sure the appliance is plugged in, turned on, and fixed to the proper setting. While a repairperson may be loathe to charge you for a service call for simply plugging in your appliance, he or she has no choice but to do so. Visiting your home requires time and fuel, which could otherwise be spent making other service calls.
Another simple problem, that many repairpersons come across is discovering that a circuit breaker has been tripped. Check you breakers to make sure your appliance is getting power before you decide to schedule a service call. Once you make sure the appliance is getting power, it’s a good idea to shut off the power before attempting to service it.
If vibration is a problem, check the machine for loose parts. Tighten up loose screws and replace any that are stripped. Also, make sure the appliance is level. Many appliances have legs that screw up or down for leveling. If that doesn’t do the trick, you may be able to prop up one side with a small scrap of wood.
It may also be a problem of balance. Make sure your washer or dishwasher is loaded properly and do not overload. Be sure all drains are clear as well.
If noise is the problem, see if you can oil squeaky parts with a little WD-40. A little bit goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
These simple tips may help you avoid paying for an expensive service call. However, if the problem is more complicated, or is something you don’t think you should attempt on your own, don’t hesitate to call a professional.