Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions | Appliance Repair Pros Belmont
At Appliance Repair Pros, we believe that an informed homeowner is a happy homeowner. When a major appliance breaks down in your Belmont home, you likely have dozens of questions running through your mind. Is it worth fixing? How long will it take? Why is it making that noise? We have compiled this comprehensive guide to answer the most common inquiries we receive from our neighbors in Waverley, Cushing Square, and the surrounding towns. Our goal is to provide transparent, expert answers to help you navigate the repair process with confidence.
Whether you are dealing with a warm refrigerator, a loud washing machine, or an oven that refuses to heat, you will find detailed technical insights below. We cover general service policies, specific troubleshooting for each appliance type, and detailed questions regarding the major brands we service, including Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, Bosch, Whirlpool, and Samsung.
General Service and Scheduling Questions
How quickly can you get a technician to my home in Belmont?
We prioritize prompt service because we understand that a broken appliance disrupts your entire life. For critical issues like a refrigerator not cooling or a water leak, we strive to schedule appointments as soon as possible, often within 24 to 48 hours. Our local focus on Belmont and the immediate surrounding communities like Watertown and Arlington allows us to navigate traffic efficiently and maximize the time our technicians spend working on your appliances.
Is it worth repairing an appliance or should I replace it?
We generally recommend the “50% Rule.” If the cost of the repair is less than 50% of the cost of a new machine, and the appliance is less than half way through its expected lifespan, repair is usually the better financial choice. This is especially true for high-end built-in units (like Sub-Zero or Thermador) or specific dimensions that are hard to replace without remodeling your cabinetry. Our technicians will provide an honest assessment of the overall condition of your unit before proceeding.
Do you have parts in stock or will I have to wait?
Our service vehicles are stocked with a “truck stock” inventory of the most common high-failure parts, such as drain pumps, igniters, thermal fuses, and water valves for major brands like Whirlpool and GE. This allows us to complete many repairs on the first visit. However, with the sheer volume of models on the market, it is impossible to carry every single part. If we need to order a specific control board or cosmetic part, we utilize local distributors to get the part quickly, often returning to finish the job within a few days.
Do you service gas and electric appliances?
Yes, our technicians are trained to handle both gas and electric fuel types. We work on gas ranges, cooktops, and dryers, as well as their 240-volt electric counterparts. We adhere to strict safety protocols when working with gas lines and high-voltage electrical circuits to ensure your home and family remain safe.
What should I do before the technician arrives?
To help us diagnose your issue efficiently, please ensure there is a clear path to the appliance. If you have pets, it is best to secure them in another room for their safety. If the appliance is a washer or dryer, please try to remove any laundry. For refrigerators, you generally do not need to empty the food unless we specifically ask, but moving fragile items off the top of the fridge is helpful.
Are there appliance repair technicians near me who work on high-end brands?
Yes, Appliance Repair Pros specializes in both standard domestic brands and premium European and luxury lines. We regularly service brands like Miele, Bosch, Thermador, and Sub-Zero found in the custom kitchens of Belmont Hill. We have the specific torx drivers, diagnostic software, and schematics required for these complex machines.
Refrigerator and Freezer Repair FAQs
Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?
This is the most common fridge issue we encounter. It is usually caused by dirty condenser coils (which restrict airflow and heat dissipation), a failed evaporator fan motor, or a start relay failure on the compressor. In more serious cases, it could indicate a sealed system leak or a failed compressor. If you hear the compressor running but the air inside is warm, contact us immediately to prevent food spoilage.
Why is water leaking onto my kitchen floor from the fridge?
Water pooling under the refrigerator is almost always caused by a clogged defrost drain. During the automatic defrost cycle, melted ice is supposed to travel down a tube to a pan near the compressor. If that tube is blocked by ice or debris, the water overflows inside the fresh food compartment or onto the floor. We can clear this blockage and install a heater probe to prevent recurrence.
My ice maker stopped making ice, what is wrong?
Ice makers are mechanically complex and prone to failure. Common causes include a frozen fill tube (preventing water from entering the mold), a failed water inlet valve, or a broken motor module in the ice maker assembly itself. On certain French door models, the ice maker compartment may not be sealing properly, allowing warm air to enter and freeze the mechanism solid.
Why is my freezer frosting up with snow?
If you see soft, snowy frost building up on your frozen food, it indicates a warm air leak. Check your door gasket for rips or tears. Also, ensure that a drawer or food package isn’t preventing the door from closing fully. If the frost is hard and localized on the back wall, that indicates a defrost system failure, not a door seal issue.
Washing Machine Repair FAQs
Why does my washing machine smell like mildew?
This is a common issue with front-loading washers. Soap residue and fabric softener build up in the door gasket and the outer tub, creating a breeding ground for mold. We recommend running a monthly “Tub Clean” cycle with a specialized tablet. If the smell persists, the door boot seal may need to be manually scrubbed or replaced if the mold has penetrated the rubber.
Why is my washer vibrating or walking across the floor?
Excessive vibration is usually caused by an unbalanced load, unlevel legs, or worn-out suspension components. In older machines, the suspension rods or shock absorbers lose their tension and can no longer dampen the movement of the heavy wet drum. In second-floor laundry rooms common in Waverley, vibration can be amplified, so ensuring the machine is perfectly level is critical.
My washer fills with water but won’t spin or agitate?
On top loaders, this is often a failed lid switch (the machine won’t spin if it thinks the lid is open) or a broken motor coupler. On modern machines, it could be a shift actuator or speed sensor failure. If the washer cannot determine the speed of the motor, the computer will halt the cycle for safety.
Why is water left in the drum at the end of the cycle?
If the washer isn’t draining, the first thing to check is the drain pump filter (often located behind a small door on the bottom front of front loaders). Coins, socks, and lint can clog this filter. If the filter is clear, the drain pump motor itself may have failed or the household drain pipe may be obstructed.
Dryer Repair FAQs
Why is my dryer taking two or three cycles to dry clothes?
This is rarely a broken dryer; it is almost always a restricted vent. If the hot, moist air cannot escape through your home’s ductwork to the outside, the moisture stays in the clothes. We recommend checking your vent cap outside for lint buildup. A restricted vent is also a fire hazard and can cause the thermal fuse in your dryer to blow.
My dryer is making a loud squeaking or thumping noise?
Dryers have a large drum that rides on rubber rollers and is turned by a belt. Over time, the rollers wear out or the idler pulley seizes, creating a loud squeak. A rhythmic thumping noise can indicate a flat spot on a roller or a crack in the drum seam. We can replace the rollers and belt to restore quiet operation.
Why does my electric dryer run but not heat?
The heating element in an electric dryer is a coil of wire that can break over time, much like a lightbulb filament. If the element breaks, the motor will still turn the drum, but there will be no heat. It could also be a tripped circuit breaker (dryers use two fuses) or a blown thermal safety fuse caused by poor venting.
Dishwasher Repair FAQs
Why does my dishwasher leave dishes dirty?
Poor cleaning is often due to a lack of water pressure or a clogged filter. If the fine mesh filter at the bottom of the tub is coated in grease, water cannot circulate. Also, verify that the spray arms are spinning freely and not blocked by tall plates. If the issue persists, the circulation pump or the water inlet valve may be failing.
Why is my dishwasher flashing a light or error code?
Modern dishwashers use codes to protect themselves. A blinking “Clean” light or an error code usually indicates a specific failure, such as a heater fault, a drainage error, or a water supply issue. We can interpret these codes to pinpoint the exact component that needs attention.
Why is water leaking from the front of my dishwasher?
Leaks from the door are often caused by a worn door gasket or the unit not being level. Another common cause is using regular hand soap instead of dishwasher detergent, which creates excessive suds that push water out of the door vent. We also check the lower spray arm for cracks, which can spray water directly at the door seal, causing leaks.
Oven and Stove Repair FAQs
Why is my gas oven not heating up?
The most common failure in a gas oven is the glow-bar igniter. The igniter must get white-hot to open the gas safety valve. Over time, the igniter weakens and glows red but does not draw enough amperage to open the valve. We can test and replace the igniter to restore heat.
Why is my electric burner element working only on high?
If a surface element on a glass cooktop or coil range goes to max heat regardless of the setting, the “infinite switch” (the control knob mechanism) has likely shorted internally. This prevents the element from cycling on and off to regulate temperature. We can replace the switch to restore control.
Can you replace the glass on my oven door?
Yes, if the outer or inner glass of your oven door has shattered, we can disassemble the door and replace the glass panel. We will need the specific model number to order the correct tempered glass assembly for your unit.
Brand-Specific Questions
Samsung Appliance FAQs
Why does my Samsung ice maker keep freezing over?
This is a known issue on many Samsung French door models. Warm air leaks into the ice room, melting the ice which then refreezes the auger solid. We perform a comprehensive repair that involves sealing the ice room box, replacing the auger drain clips, and updating the software to manage the defrost cycles better.
My Samsung washer shows a DC or Ub code?
The DC or Ub code indicates an unbalanced load. If this happens even with small loads, the suspension rods that hold the tub have likely worn out. We can replace the suspension assembly to stop the washer from banging during the spin cycle.
LG Appliance FAQs
My LG refrigerator isn’t cooling, is it the compressor?
LG uses a unique “Linear Compressor” which is efficient but has had higher failure rates in certain model years. If your fridge is running but warm, we can test the compressor output. If it is the compressor, we can discuss the warranty coverage LG may offer on the part itself.
What does the OE error mean on my LG dishwasher?
OE stands for “Output Error,” meaning the unit cannot drain. This is usually a clogged drain pump or a kinked drain hose. We can clear the debris or replace the drain pump motor to clear the error.
Whirlpool / Maytag / KitchenAid FAQs
Why is my Whirlpool washer making a loud roaring noise?
A loud roar during the spin cycle usually indicates that the main tub bearing has failed. On top loaders, this is often accompanied by water leaking underneath. This is a major repair, and we can help you decide if it is cost-effective based on the age of the machine.
My KitchenAid dishwasher top rack isn’t cleaning?
This is often due to the “chopper” assembly breaking or the feed tube to the upper spray arm disconnecting. KitchenAid units often have a filter/chopper system that requires inspection if water pressure drops.
My Maytag oven takes forever to preheat?
On Maytag gas ranges, a weak igniter is the culprit. It glows but takes 3-5 minutes to open the gas valve, making the oven take 30+ minutes to reach temperature. Replacing the igniter fixes this instantly.
GE / Monogram FAQs
Why is my GE refrigerator fan making a loud noise?
GE refrigerators sometimes suffer from the evaporator fan motor rusting or failing, creating a loud groaning or buzzing noise inside the freezer. We can replace the fan motor to restore quiet operation.
My Monogram oven turned off during self-clean and won’t open?
The high heat of the self-clean cycle can sometimes trip the thermal safety fuse or overheat the control board. If the door is locked and the unit is dead, we may need to manually release the latch and replace the thermal safety cutout.
Bosch Appliance FAQs
What is the E15 error on my Bosch dishwasher?
E15 indicates the “AquaStop” leak protection system is active. Water has leaked into the solid base pan of the dishwasher, triggering a float switch. We must locate the source of the leak—often the sump seal or water valve—to resolve the code.
Why aren’t my dishes dry in my Bosch dishwasher?
Bosch dishwashers use condensation drying, which relies on the heat of the final rinse and the stainless steel tub. They do not have a heating element at the bottom. To get dry dishes, you must use rinse aid (like Jet-Dry) and the “Auto” or “Sanitize” cycle helps retain heat.
Sub-Zero and High-End Brand FAQs
Do you service Sub-Zero refrigerators?
Yes, we are experienced with the maintenance of Sub-Zero units. Common issues include vacuum condenser clogging (which should be cleaned every 6 months) and evaporator leaks. We understand the dual-compressor systems used in these premium units.
My Miele dishwasher shows an F70 code?
Similar to Bosch, the F70 code on a Miele dishwasher indicates the Waterproof system is active due to a leak in the drip tray. Miele appliances are highly sensitive and require precise diagnostics to find the leak source.
Contact us today if you have any other questions or need to schedule a service.
At Appliance Repair Pros, we pride ourselves on being Belmont’s most knowledgeable repair team. Whether it is a simple belt replacement or a complex control board diagnosis, we have the answer. Reach out to us for assistance and let us get your home running smoothly again.
