Appliances are a big part of daily life—until they stop working. When that happens, you probably have a lot of questions. Is it worth fixing? How much will it cost? Can you troubleshoot the problem yourself?
At TC Appliance Repair, we get these questions all the time. To save you some time (and maybe a little stress), we’ve put together answers to some of the most common appliance repair questions.
1. How do I know if my appliance actually needs repair?
If your appliance isn’t working the way it used to, look for these signs:
- Strange noises – Unusual sounds often indicate worn-out or broken parts.
- Inconsistent performance – If your dryer takes twice as long to dry clothes or your fridge isn’t keeping food cold, something’s wrong.
- Leaks or puddles – Water where it shouldn’t be is always a red flag.
- Power issues – If an appliance won’t turn on or keeps shutting off unexpectedly, it may need professional attention.
If the problem is minor, like a loose connection or a dirty filter, you might be able to handle it yourself. If the issue persists, it’s best to call a technician.
2. Is it better to repair or replace my appliance?
This depends on a few factors:
- Age of the appliance – If it’s close to the end of its lifespan, replacement may be a better investment.
- Cost of repair vs. replacement – If the repair costs less than half the price of a new appliance, fixing it is usually the better choice.
- Frequency of breakdowns – If you’re constantly calling for repairs, replacement might be the smarter option.
- Brand quality – Some of the best appliance brands are built to last and may be worth repairing, while lower-quality models may not be worth the investment.
For expensive appliances like refrigerators and ovens, repairs often make sense. For lower-cost items like microwaves, replacing them might be easier.
3. What should I check before calling a repair technician?
Before calling a professional, try these quick troubleshooting steps:
- Check the power supply – Make sure the appliance is plugged in, the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, and there’s no power outage.
- Look for clogs or blockages – Dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers can stop working due to simple clogs.
- Inspect the settings – Sometimes, a small setting change can solve the issue (e.g., checking if your oven is still on a timed setting).
- Clean or replace filters – Many appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, and dryers, need regular filter maintenance.
If none of these work, a professional diagnosis is the next step.
4. How long does an appliance repair usually take?
Most common repairs can be completed in one visit and take less than an hour. This includes fixing a dryer belt, replacing a faulty thermostat, or clearing a clogged drain.
If your appliance needs a special-order part, repairs may take a few days to a week, depending on availability.
5. How much does appliance repair typically cost?
Repair costs vary based on the type of appliance, the severity of the issue, and the cost of replacement parts.
Here’s a rough estimate for common repairs:
Appliance Repair
Minor Fixes (e.g., replacing a switch or seal)
Mid-Level Repairs (e.g., thermostat replacement, motor issues)
Major Repairs (e.g., compressor or control board replacement)
Typical Cost Range
$75 – $200
$150 – $400
$300 – $600
Getting an estimate from a technician will give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
6. Can I repair my appliance myself?
For simple maintenance tasks, like cleaning coils, replacing filters, or unclogging drains, DIY solutions can work.
However, for electrical problems, gas appliances, or major mechanical failures, attempting a repair without proper knowledge can be dangerous. Incorrect fixes can also lead to more expensive repairs later. If you’re unsure, calling a professional is the safest option.
7. How can I avoid frequent appliance breakdowns?
Regular maintenance is key. Here are some simple ways to prevent major issues:
- Don’t overload your washing machine or dryer – It strains the motor and reduces efficiency.
- Keep your fridge and freezer vents clear – Overpacking can block airflow and make the unit work harder.
- Clean your dishwasher filter regularly – It prevents clogs and drainage issues.
- Check for signs of wear – If you notice cracked seals, loose parts, or strange noises, don’t ignore them.
- Clear your dryer vent – A clogged vent can cause overheating and even fire hazards.
These small habits can extend the life of your appliances and save you money on repairs.
8. What’s the biggest mistake people make with broken appliances?
One of the biggest mistakes is ignoring the problem and continuing to use the appliance. For instance:
- Running a noisy washer can cause more damage to internal parts.
- Using a fridge that isn’t cooling properly can spoil food and force the compressor to work harder.
- A leaking dishwasher can lead to water damage and mold growth.
If you notice an issue, it’s best to address it sooner rather than later.
9. Do you offer same-day appliance repair?
At TC Appliance Repair, we offer same-day service and flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We’ll do our best to get your appliance fixed as quickly as possible.
10. How do I schedule a repair?
Scheduling a repair is simple:
- Call us directly at 737-777-8214 to describe the problem.
- Book an appointment online through our website.
- Send us a message and we’ll respond as soon as possible.
We’ll gather details about the issue, provide an estimate, and schedule a convenient time for the repair.
Need Appliance Repair?
If your appliance isn’t working the way it should, TC Appliance Repair is here to help. Whether it’s a minor fix or a major repair, our experienced technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem quickly!
