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Troubleshooting First

Before You Call for Service

Many appliance problems have simple solutions. Try these quick checks before scheduling a service call - you might save yourself time and money!

30%
DIY Fixable Issues
5 min
Average Check Time
75%
Success Rate

Quick Checks for Any Appliance

Start with these universal checks that apply to most appliances. About 30% of service calls could be avoided with these simple steps.

1

Check the Power

Fixes ~15% of issues

The most common "broken" appliance is simply unplugged or has a tripped breaker.

  • Ensure the appliance is plugged in securely
  • Check that the outlet works (plug in a lamp or phone charger)
  • Check your circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers
  • For 240V appliances (ranges, dryers), check both breakers
  • Reset GFCI outlets if applicable (push the reset button)
2

Check Water Supply

Fixes ~12% of issues

Many dishwasher and refrigerator issues are caused by water supply problems.

  • Ensure water supply valve is fully open (turn counterclockwise)
  • Check for kinks in the water supply line
  • Inspect for visible leaks at connections
  • For ice makers, ensure the ice maker arm is in the "on" position
  • Check if water filter needs replacement
3

Check Settings and Controls

Fixes ~20% of issues

Incorrect settings or child lock can make an appliance appear broken.

  • Verify temperature settings are correct
  • Check if child lock or control lock is activated
  • Ensure the appliance is not in demo/showroom mode
  • Check delay start settings
  • Try a hard reset: unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in
4

Check Filters and Vents

Fixes ~18% of issues

Clogged filters cause many performance issues that seem like serious problems.

  • Clean or replace the filter (dishwasher, refrigerator, range hood)
  • Clear any blocked vents or air passages
  • Remove debris from condenser coils
  • Ensure nothing is blocking the appliance's airflow
  • Check for ice buildup blocking vents (freezer/refrigerator)
5

Check Door and Seals

Fixes ~10% of issues

Improperly closed doors or worn seals cause many cooling and heating issues.

  • Ensure the door closes completely and latches
  • Check that nothing is blocking the door from closing
  • Inspect door gaskets/seals for damage or debris
  • Clean door seals with warm soapy water
  • Realign door if it appears crooked

Appliance-Specific Troubleshooting

Select your appliance and problem to see targeted troubleshooting steps.

Refrigerator/Freezer

Not Cooling

  • -Check that temperature is set correctly (not accidentally turned up)
  • -Ensure vents inside are not blocked by food items
  • -Clean condenser coils underneath or behind unit
  • -Check if door is sealing properly (dollar bill test)
  • -Allow 24 hours after power outage for temps to stabilize

Ice Maker Not Working

  • -Ensure ice maker is turned on (arm down or switch on)
  • -Check water supply valve is open
  • -Replace water filter if older than 6 months
  • -Clear any ice jam in the mechanism
  • -Ensure freezer is at 0°F or below

Making Noise

  • -Ensure unit is level (adjust legs)
  • -Check if something is touching the back
  • -Move items that might be vibrating
  • -Normal sounds: humming (compressor), clicking (defrost), dripping (defrost water)

Dishwasher

Not Cleaning

  • -Clean the filter (bottom of unit)
  • -Clean spray arm holes with toothpick
  • -Ensure water is hot enough (120°F at tap)
  • -Do not overcrowd or block spray arms
  • -Run hot water at sink before starting cycle

Not Draining

  • -Clean the filter at bottom of unit
  • -Check drain hose for kinks
  • -Ensure garbage disposal knockout plug is removed (new installs)
  • -Run garbage disposal to clear shared drain
  • -Check air gap on sink if present

Not Starting

  • -Ensure door is completely latched
  • -Check child lock is not activated
  • -Try holding start button for 3 seconds
  • -Check delay start is not set
  • -Reset: turn off breaker for 1 minute

Range/Oven

Gas Not Igniting

  • -Clean burner caps and heads
  • -Ensure burner caps are seated properly
  • -Dry burners if recently cleaned
  • -Clear clogged igniter holes with toothpick
  • -Check if you hear clicking (igniter working)

Oven Not Heating

  • -Ensure oven is not in Sabbath/demo mode
  • -Check clock is set (some models need clock set)
  • -Allow 15-20 minutes for preheat
  • -Check that door closes completely
  • -Try bake vs broil to isolate element

Uneven Cooking

  • -Use an oven thermometer to check actual temp
  • -Ensure oven is level
  • -Do not use aluminum foil on bottom
  • -Allow air circulation between baking sheets
  • -Oven may need calibration (adjustable in settings)

Freezer

Not Freezing

  • -Check temperature setting (should be 0°F)
  • -Ensure vents are not blocked by items
  • -Do not overfill (needs air circulation)
  • -Clean condenser coils
  • -Check door seal with dollar bill test

Frost Buildup

  • -Check door seal for gaps or debris
  • -Ensure door closes completely
  • -Do not leave door open long
  • -Check defrost drain is not clogged
  • -Verify defrost system is working

Running Constantly

  • -Check if room/location is too warm
  • -Clean condenser coils
  • -Check door seal
  • -Ensure proper clearance around unit
  • -Normal in very hot weather or after adding warm food

Information to Have Ready

If you do need to call for service, having this information ready will help us diagnose your problem faster and ensure we bring the right parts.

Appliance Information

  • 1Brand and model number (usually on a sticker inside door or back)
  • 2Serial number (needed for warranty verification)
  • 3Age of appliance (approximate if unknown)
  • 4Any recent repairs or service

Problem Description

  • 1Exact symptoms (what is or is not happening)
  • 2When did the problem start?
  • 3Did anything change before the problem (power outage, move, etc.)?
  • 4Error codes displayed (write them down exactly)
  • 5Any unusual sounds, smells, or leaks?

What You Have Tried

  • 1List any troubleshooting steps already attempted
  • 2Did a reset help temporarily?
  • 3Any pattern to when the problem occurs?

When You Should Call a Professional

Stop troubleshooting and call for service if:

  • You smell gas (leave house immediately and call gas company)
  • You see sparks, smoke, or burning smell
  • There is electrical buzzing or humming
  • Appliance trips the breaker repeatedly
  • Water is leaking significantly
  • Refrigerator/freezer is warm with food at risk
  • The problem persists after trying basic troubleshooting
  • The repair requires disassembly or special tools

More Troubleshooting Resources

Help Center

Browse all problems

Error Codes

Look up error codes

Maintenance

Preventive care guides

Tried Everything? We're Here to Help.

If your appliance still is not working after trying these steps, our expert technicians can diagnose and repair it quickly. Same-day service available throughout Phoenix Metro.

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