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Signs Your Refrigerator Needs Repair

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 17:34:00 GMT

A refrigerator is a significant household appliance, but you may not think about it much until it develops issues or loses power. Luckily, competent professionals can easily fix the most common refrigerator issues.

However, you need to recognize these issues in time before they get worse to save your fridge from more costly repairs. Here are signs your refrigerator needs repair.

Foods Spoil Early

A fridge is supposed to keep foods fresh until their expiry date. Thus, if the food in your refrigerator spoils prematurely, you need to have the appliance inspected. First, regulate the temperatures to ensure it operates within the recommended temperature range.

If this tip isn't helpful, you should get professional help. The repair technician will inspect, test, and fix components, such as coils and the condenser fan, to restore optimum performance. Hire a repair service as soon as possible to avoid losses.

Water Leaks Out

Due to condensation, water collects in the fridge or freezer. But this water is typically directed to a drain hole, which leads it to a drip pan below the refrigerator, to evaporate. This means that a fridge in a good state doesn't leak water onto the floor.

Therefore, if you notice water on the floor where your fridge is, it has a faulty component. Food particles or debris can block the drain pipe, causing ice buildup, which leads to leakage. A technician can unblock the drains and fix other faulty parts to prevent leak problems.

Energy Bills Rise

Another warning sign is high energy bills. A malfunctioning refrigerator usually works twice as hard hard to function as required. This will lead to high energy consumption, which will result in higher bills for you.

Thus, if you receive strangely high energy bills, you should call technicians to see if the fridge contributes to the escalation and solve the problem.

Ice Maker Fails

You should be alarmed if your ice maker no longer makes ice. This might indicate a problem with the temperatures or a frozen inlet tube. Therefore, you should call professionals to fix the problem before it gets worse.

Fridge Makes Loud Noises

When a fridge runs, it usually makes moderate humming or banging noises. However, these noises should not be so loud that they draw your attention.

If your fridge produces strange noises that make you uncomfortable, chances are high that it has a problem with the fan, condenser, or compressor. Also, watch out for vibrating sounds as they indicate loose parts, which need to be tightened.

Back Produces Extreme Heat

The compressor in a fridge has coils that absorb heat and keep the appliance cold. If the back of your refrigerator is too hot, the cooling system in the compressor has a problem. Get professional help before this problem renders your fridge nonfunctional.

Freezer Freezes

The freezer is designed to freeze the contents inside it and not itself. Sometimes, the freezer door may stick because ice has formed on its edges. When this happens, unplug your refrigerator until the ice melts. If the problem occurs again, you should call your appliance repair technician.

Most modern refrigerators have a self-defrost option on the freezer, but you may still encounter such an issue if the feature fails.

Appliance Fails to Start

If your fridge doesn't start when you plug it in, its control system is faulty and needs inspection and repair. But before you call technicians, test the outlet with another electronic appliance to ensure it is not the source of the problem.

If you notice any of these signs, you need to hire a professional repair service. Our company has experienced technicians who can inspect and fix your fridge or other faulty home appliances. Contact us today for quality appliance maintenance services.

3 Signs Your Clothes Dryer Needs Repair

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 17:47:00 GMT

Like any other appliance, your clothes dryer will wear over time and eventually need repair. While some signs of a failing dryer are obvious, others can go overlooked for quite a while until the problem gets worse and more serious repairs are necessary. Discover three signs that you should call a technician to repair your dryer.

1. Clothes Take Too Long to Dry

If you notice that your clothes don't get as dry anymore with the same drying time, it could be a sign of a problem. A clothes dryer relies on proper airflow to cycle hot air through your clothes as they tumble and expel damp air through the vent hose.

An airflow obstruction could cause damp air to linger inside the drum and greatly increase the amount of time it takes your clothes to dry. If your clothes don't dry quickly enough, make sure the lint trap is clear and check the vent hose for crimps or blockages.

If you don't seem to have an airflow issue, your clothes may dry slowly due to a failing component. With years of use, the heating element in your dryer can eventually burn out and stop delivering heated air to the drum. Also possibly, one of the thermostats has failed and no longer reads the temperature properly, which causes the dryer to warm up much more slowly.

2. Strange Noises Occur While Running

Heavy clothes with zippers or buttons may make a banging sound in the dryer, but other, more unusual noises can point to a problem. Scraping, squealing, or thumping sounds can occur when one or more components supporting the drum have failed. The support roller under the drum that holds it in place may have worn down, or the bearing in the back of the drum may need to be replaced.

Problems with the dryer motor can also cause alarming sounds while the dryer runs. Motor bearings can wear out and cause squealing sounds, or a rattling sound may point to a loose pulley. Both of these components can usually be replaced without replacing the entire motor. If you hear an electrical humming noise, it may be a sign of a dangerous short inside the motor that requires professional repair or replacement.

3. Burning Smells Come Out of the Dryer

You should never ignore a burning smell from any appliance, especially one that generates as much heat as a clothes dryer. Seemingly innocuous problems like lint buildup can create a significant fire hazard. Unplug your dryer and open the access panel every few months to inspect the inside for lint. You can use a vacuum hose to clean lint off of the motor, heating element, and the inside walls of the housing.

A burning smell can also be a sign of a failing thermostat. Just as a thermostat problem can keep your dryer from getting hot enough, it can also cause it to overheat if it incorrectly reads that the temperature is too low.

If the burning smell from your dryer smells particularly like burning rubber, it may be the drive belt. The drive belt can sometimes slip off of the drum and fall onto the heating element, where the belt dries out or even melts and creates a foul burning odor. You may notice that the drum doesn't turn properly if this is the case.

Knowing the signs that your dryer needs repair will help you take proactive measures to correct the problem before it becomes more serious. If your dryer or any other appliance doesn't work like it should, contact us at Appliance Repair Solutions so our experienced technicians can help you!

The Most Common Oven Error Codes and Resolutions

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:51:00 GMT

Ovens with digital screens not only have the ability to set timers and precise oven temperatures, but the displays also showcase error codes when a malfunction occurs. Ovens will refer to error codes as either fault codes or error codes. The terms are interchangeable with each other. Error codes are not always a reason to panic and purchase a new appliance.

Learn about some of the most common error codes you will come across, what the codes may look like, and what steps to take after the code appears.

Power Failure Codes

One of the more common errors is a power failure code. When the power goes out or goes through a surge, your oven may display the error code. The codes vary and depend on the manufacturer, but they include F9.

Sometimes the error may appear if a plug is loose and the oven does not receive full power. To clear the error, unplug the oven for at least 30 seconds. Once you plug the oven back in, the code will reset and disappear. Begin full oven operation again.

If the code persists without any power outages, then an appliance repair specialist will do a full inspection of the oven. The power cord or supply could have issues. Replacement of the power supply will correct the problem.

Temperature Sensor Errors

Temperature regulation is a crucial part of oven operations. A temperature sensor reads the temperature in the oven to regulate and ensure the oven only heats up to the set temperature. The temperature errors are typically some of the lower numbered errors. For example, an oven may display an F2 error for higher oven temperatures.

The errors will vary and depend on the sensor issue. For example, some errors refer to the temperature sensor reading high temperatures. Others refer to low temperatures. When the errors appear, the oven's temperature sensor may need a replacement.

If you ignore this type of error and continue to use the oven as normal, foods will not cook properly and the oven may shut off in the middle of cooking. A temperature sensor replacement will help calibrate the oven and cook food properly.

Touch Pad Errors

The touch pad not only shows error codes, but may be the source of errors as well. When a touchpad malfunctions, buttons may not work and the oven settings cannot be changed. The fault codes for a touchpad error will typically include letters only.

You may try to unplug the oven and plug the appliance back in to check if the error clears. Sometimes a glitch will occur and a reset helps. If the error persists, you need to replace the touch pad. An appliance technician will replace the touch pad and determine what caused the problem to help prevent similar problems in the future.

Lock Errors

To help protect adults and children from burns, many ovens feature oven door locks. When the wiring or signals built into the locks malfunction, you will see a lock error code. Some ovens may spell out the error code with an example like LOC. Others may use higher numbered codes like F9.

If the lock malfunctions, you do not want to leave food stuck in the oven. Turn the oven off and contact an appliance repair company to help unlock the oven. You do not want to jam any items in the oven door because you may cause more damage.

A repair of the oven lock will ensure the oven is fully operational and the lock doesn't jam up.

For more information on error codes and repairs, contact us at Appliance Repair Solutions . We have experienced technicians who will help make your oven operational again.

4 Refrigerator Odors Signaling Repairs Are Needed

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 17:54:00 GMT

When you open your refrigerator on a daily basis, the last thing you want to deal with is a big whiff of a bad odor. While a majority of the odors get attributed to old food or leftovers, sometimes the odor source may come from the fridge itself.

Once you have cleaned out the whole refrigerator, you may discover the odor still persists. Keep reading to learn about four odor indicators and why an appliance repair company may be needed to help properly repair the appliance.

1. Drip Pan Odors

When condensation builds up around a refrigerator, you do not want moisture and water leaking out onto the kitchen floor. To help prevent the leaks, many refrigerator companies have implemented a drip pan system in the fridge.

Over time, the drip pan may fill with water. Depending on the presence of other germs and bacteria, mold could form on the pan and create harmful odors in the kitchen. If you believe the drip pan may be the cause of the odors, consider hiring an appliance repair technician to empty and clean the drip pan.

The drip pan location may be hard to reach and a trained professional will ensure no other problems are leading to excess condensation or drip pan issues. Once clean, the odors should dissipate and the technicians may give you trips to prevent the same thing from happening again.

2. Refrigerator Temperatures

Even if food and leftovers are pretty fresh inside the fridge, you may find odors still linger and food spoils more quickly than you expected. If odors are often present from food inside the fridge, you may have problems with your refrigerator temperatures.

Multiple problems may occur from a temperature standpoint and a full inspection will help diagnose how the problem occurred. For example, the temperature sensor in the fridge may be off. For example, a refrigerator may read an internal temperature of 30 degrees when the fridge is actually 40 degrees. The differences in temperature make an impact on the food quality.

The fridge may also have problems with the fans or cooling unit. A technician will examine the parts, replace parts, and ensure the fridge becomes operational. The plastic on the inside of a fridge may absorb odors, so once the fridge gets repaired, a home method like the use of coffee beans or a box of baking soda will help get the odors away.

3. Water Line Leak s

If your appliance has water and ice capabilities, one of the odor problems may be associated with the water line coming into the fridge. Water lines are often thin. When the fridge moves or gets bumped, the water line could get pinched and create a leak directly from the line.

A small leak could lead to major odors, including the buildup of mold or mildew. An appliance technician has the ability to pull out the fridge, find the leak, and repair the water line to prevent future odors and water messes.

4. Burn Smell s

While an oven or toaster provides most of the burn odors in a home, your refrigerator may also emit similar odors. When a burn smell comes from your fridge, the culprit is often the electrical wiring or an overheating element on the appliance.

For example, the interior light on the fridge may not shut off properly or have a bulb issue. The wiring may overheat and create the burn smell. Any time you smell a burning odor from the fridge, you should unplug the appliance immediately and call an appliance professional for help.

The professional will help repair the electrical wiring and prevent disasters like an appliance fire.

To help eliminate all the odors found in your fridge, contact us today at Appliance Repair Solutions . We will help diagnose and repair your fridge with our years of professional experience and expertise.

Do Your Restaurant Appliances Create Food Waste?

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 17:59:00 GMT

Restaurant food waste is real. Losing money to unused and uneaten food can hurt your profits, yet onethird of food produced globally is never eaten. Your restaurant can help cut down on the amount of food wasted when you take time to manage food orders, instill creative uses of leftovers, and even resize your plate portions.

Sometimes many efforts are not enough, and your restaurant may still experience profit loss due to food waste. But one avenue where food gets wasted may be right in your own kitchen and storage areas. Kitchen appliances like freezers, walk-in coolers, and stoves can inadvertently create further food waste through poor maintenance, improper appliance use, and human error.

Here are some ways those appliances might waste valuable food and what you can do about it.

Commercial Stoves and Ovens

Stoves and ovens receive the brunt of cooking mistakes and can quickly become dirty, greasy and encrusted with food. Much of the time, stoves and ovens that go for long periods between cleanings cannot cook as efficiently, which affects the quality of food.

For example, dirty burners and other heating elements produce inconsistent temperatures and leave cooks guessing heat amounts. The results may be burnt entrees, dry meat, and other useless foods that end up in the trash.

Take a look at how the right maintenance can help extend the life of a stove and cook foods the right way.

Keep reflective pans below the burners clean and shiny to better direct heat toward cookware.
For concealed burners, you can help direct heat to cookware when the stove top is always clean.
Keep burner handles greased with high temperature valve grease so you can easily turn them without using force.
For multiple ovens and stove tops, invest in snap-on strips to better adjoin ranges and prevent food drips down the sides.

Not only do clean ovens and stoves perform better and prevent food waste, they are less prone to grease build up that combusts and starts kitchen fires.

Commercial Freezers and Refrigerators

Though they differ in temperature settings, freezers and walk-in coolers both store food at ideal temperatures in order to preserve food and prevent food waste. A freezer or fridge with the wrong temperature settings will allow food to thaw out and spoil, or freeze too cold and get freezer burn. Both scenarios force you to throw away food.

In order for these appliances to properly preserve food the right way and reduce how much food you must throw away, a little maintenance and some smart storage tips are in order.

Check the temperature setting regularly . The ideal temperature for walk-in coolers and refrigerators is below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. For the freezer, -4 degrees Fahrenheit. The right setting maintains food to keep it safer for consumption.
Stock food so air can circulate . Leave room at the bottom, top, and sides of freezer walls to help maintain a consistent temperature so food lasts longer.
Don't let moisture accumulate . Excess moisture from accidental thaws inside freezers can ruin food that develops freezer burn. Leaky food containers inside refrigerators can contaminate other foods and even grow mold.

Finally, regular food rotation ensures you use the oldest food first. Use a clear, easy-to-read label system of use-by dates, and place newer food behind old food as you stock shelves.

The right maintenance and usage of your commercial appliances help you store, preserve, and prepare food with minimal waste. If you're unsure what maintenance is necessary for your appliances, contact a professional from Appliance Repair Solutions. We can recommend steps to keep them working for you, and make any repairs if something goes wrong.

Reasons for Excess Condensation in a Walk-In Cooler

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 18:04:00 GMT

In the most basic terms, condensation is what occurs when water vapor transforms into its liquid state. The transformation can only occur when atmospheric conditions are just right and the warm air and cold air collide. While in nature condensation gives the world things like fresh morning dew, condensation in a commercial walk-in cooler can be especially problematic.

Condensation in your commercial kitchen's walk-in cooler can generate problems with mold and mildew and can compromise the freshness and safety of food products you keep inside. Most condensation problems are easy enough for a professional to diagnose and repair. Here is a look at some of the reasons you may have excess condensation in your commercial walk-in cooler.

The Door Doesn't Close Properly

A walk-in cooler's door may not close properly from several causes, and it is best to investigate each cause before you call an appliance repair technician, because some issues have a simple solution. Some of the most common causes for a cooler door not closing securely include:

Debris on the floor prevents the door from seating against the door frame or from closing completely
The door itself has shifted out of place or warped (especially an issue with older walk-in coolers)
The door latch does not connect completely when closed
Employees are not taking the time to properly close the door all the way

A rubber gasket or seal is around the perimeter of the typical commercial cooler door as well. If this seal is broken or damaged, it can allow warm air to seep into the cooler, which will cause problems with condensation fairly easily. All of these issues are relatively easy to fix and some of them will only require a little extra diligence on behalf of your staff members.

The Air Circulation Fans Don't Function

To properly distribute cold air through the walk-in cooler, a series of fans should consistently rotate air throughout the unit. If one of these fans stops functioning, it can create warmer spots inside the cooler. When the warmer air in these areas combines with the rest of the cold air the cooler produces, condensation can develop.

Warm Objects Are Placed in the Cooler

In rare cases, condensation problems can arise from simply placing hot or heated objects in the cooler on a consistent basis. Hot items in the cooler radiate their own heat and that heat combines with the cold to generate condensation. In smaller coolers, the condensation from such actions can accumulate rather quickly and cause problems.

The easiest way to eliminate condensation from hot items is to allow items to cool properly before you put them into the cooler. If your employees don't do this already, it can actually be a food safety concern due to risks of salmonella bacteria growth and raising the temperatures of surrounding foods in the cooler.

The Cooler Is Too Close to Heat-Producing Implements

The proper holding temperature for a commercial refrigeration system is 40 degrees or below. If an oven, dishwasher, or other heat-producing appliance is close to the cooler, hot and cold air will consistently collide in or near the cooler.

Condensation will be an ongoing problem unless you make some reconfigurations to instill some distance between the cooler and other heat-producing appliances. You can combat this issue in many ways. For example, install a heavy-duty plastic curtain over the cooler's opening.

Keeping your commercial cooler in good working order often involves working to track down problems with condensation. If your walk-in cooler has condensation or any other types of issues, reach out to the experts at Jesse & Sons Appliance Repair Solutions .

Prevent Oven Problems by Maintaining Your Stove Components

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 18:07:00 GMT

Electric oven and stove combos cause aggravation and hazardous kitchen conditions when you've neglected these appliances. Maintain these oven components to avoid kitchen emergencies or entertaining-event stress.

Tidy the Knobs and Control Panel

The knobs on your kitchen stove are connected to electrical components inside the oven control panel. Routinely clean accumulated grease and food debris from the knob surfaces to avoid spreading germs. Bacteria and other harmful organisms grow on dirty surfaces of oven knobs that you've never cleaned.

Always remove the knobs from the stove before you clean the components. Turn all stove knobs to their off positions before taking the knobs off the control panel. Never spray oven cleaners or other products inside the control knob area when the knobs are off since the cleaners could damage sensitive parts inside the control panel.

Soak extra dirty stove knobs in warm soapy water, wipe away stubborn debris with a dishcloth, then rinse the knobs thoroughly in clean water. Let the knobs dry completely before installing them on the stove again.

Your stove knobs can also cause issues if the baking or broiling temperatures inside the oven don't match the temperature you set on the oven control knob. Your oven may undercook food and cause food poisoning when your oven doesn't reach the proper cooking levels.

Use a special oven thermometer to test the temperature at various areas inside the oven while the oven is on the bake setting. Your appliance repair person can help you calibrate a digital oven or replace baking or broiling element that's past its prime.

Take Care With the Self-Cleaning Feature

On the self-cleaning cycle, an oven can reach temperatures between 800 and 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The ultra-high temperature inside the oven dissolves baked-on grease and crust on the surface of the oven walls.

A clean oven is a safer oven since spilled foods near the baking element can cause fires inside the oven. Spilled foods also smoke at high temperatures and impart unpleasant tastes and smells to oven-cooked foods.

Use the self-cleaning feature to keep the oven clean, but don't use the self-cleaning feature when you have a lot of cooking to do in the near future. The heating elements inside ovens often show their ages during the seldom-used self-cleaning cycles. Older elements break down from the intense heat of the self-cleaning temperatures and you will need to replace these older parts if you've noticed an issue.

Remove your baking racks from the oven during the self-cleaning process. The walls, floor, and ceiling of the oven have a special coating to withstand the heat of the self-cleaning temperatures. Your oven racks may have a special, different type of coating that is destroyed by the high heat of the self-cleaning cycle.

Respect Electrical Features and Elements

Always turn off your stovetop and oven before you unplug the appliance. Check the stove's electrical cord throughout the year to ensure the cord isn't damaged or frayed. Rodents often chew through electrical cords, so be vigilant about checking all appliance cords if you have a mouse or rat problem in your neighborhood.

Never run your stovetop or oven when no one is home to monitor the appliance. Baked goods and slow-cooked meats can and will catch fire under the right conditions. For example, meat or batter drippings could fall on the baking element and cause flames to shoot up to the cooking food.

Keep an eye on the bake and broil elements to make sure the elements are free of debris and properly installed inside the oven. If you notice areas of an element that get redder in one spot, your oven element probably has a short and needs to be replaced soon.

When your oven lights flicker or the oven doesn't heat properly, the oven may have electrical issues that require the services of a professional. Call in an expert if you suspect your stove or oven has a wiring issue, control-panel burn-out, or a failing oven element.

Get your oven in tip-top shape for all of your dinners and parties by contacting Appliance Repair Solutions today.

Extend the Lifetime of Your Dryer By Taking Care of It

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 18:11:00 GMT

Drying your clothes is such a routine chore, it can be easy to forget your dryer costs hundreds of dollars. Protect the investment you made in your dryer by learning how to take proper care of it.

Clean Your Lint Trap

It is common knowledge you should wipe the lint from the lint trap after each load you dry. However, just removing the lint is not enough to keep the lint trap clean.

To keep the lint trap clean, remove the lint trap from the dryer and clean the trap with some dish soap and a brush. This will remove buildup. Allow the lint trap to air dry before putting it back inside of your dryer.

Clean the Lint Trap Compartment

While the rent trap is out of the dryer, clean the lint trap compartment. Lint and other debris can get around the trap and build up in the lint trap compartment.

Use the crevice attachment for your vacuum cleaner to get down in the lint trap compartment and thoroughly clean it.

Clean the Hose

Pull your dryer out from against the wall. Disconnect the hose from the back of the dryer. Use your vacuum cleaner to clean the hose. Or, you can switch out your dryer vent hose with a new one. This cleaning is a smart move to make, as your dryer hose presents a fire risk when lint builds up inside.

Clean the Outside Vent

Next, go outside and remove the vent cover from the outside vent. Use a lint brush to clean the inside of the vent. If you don't have a lint brush, a clean toilet bowl brush you can pick up from the dollar store will effectively clean the outside vent. This task will remove any lint trapped in the exhaust vent, which can pose a fire hazard.

Clean the Interior Drum

Next, you need to clean the interior drum of your dryer. Before you start cleaning the drum, though, unplug your dryer.

Then, take a cloth and get it wet with some warm water and lather up some soap on the cloth. Take the cloth and wipe down the inside of your washer. Then, take a dry cloth and dry off the inside of the drum. You can also leave the door to the dryer open to facilitate the drying process.

Lint and dust can accumulate on the inside of the drum, so you should clean it off at least once a month.

Occasionally, sticky things, such as gum or candy, may get stuck on the side of the drum. To get rid of sticky substances, spray a little cooking spray on the substance. Let the spray sit for a minute, then wipe it away.

For scuff marks, a magic eraser is an effective way to get rid of them. Just get the magic eraser a little wet, and scrub away at the mark to remove it. You can also spray some Windex on a cloth and use it to remove the scuff mark.

Clean the Exterior of the Dryer

While the dryer is unplugged, clean the outside of the unit as well. Use a cloth and some basic dish soap or general all-purpose cleaner. Clean the top and sides of the dryer and get out your broom or vacuum to clean up around the floor as well.

Keeping the outside of your dryer clean will help keep up the overall condition of the dryer. Dust and lint tend to gather on the outside of your dryer, so you do need to clean it.

If your dryer is underperforming, give us a call at Appliance Repair Solutions , and we can send a technician out to fix your dryer and get it working properly again.

5 Reasons It Pays to Maintain Your Restaurant Freezer Properly

Mon, 06 May 2019 18:16:00 GMT

The commercial freezer is a vital part of your restaurant. But it's often an unsung hero in the kitchen, doing its job silently and with little attention. The smart restaurant owner or manager, though, does well to give the freezer the maintenance and care that it deserves. Why? Here are five reasons that caring for your walk-in freezer boosts your bottom line.

1. It Ensures Long Life

Like most commercial equipment, a walk-in freezer is a big investment - costing thousands of dollars for even a minimal unit. The longer you can keep yours in good working order, the better it will be for your budget and your wallet.

2. It Reduces Energy Waste

Running appliances on a daily basis costs money, but you can keep those bills down. Basically, there are two ways to keep energy bills lower. The first is by using the equipment correctly. This means not overfilling or under-filling dishwashers, freezers, or refrigerators. Correct use includes training staff on the proper way to use appliances and choose settings. And it involves opting for the right temperature for the right usage.

The second way to reduce waste is by ensuring that the unit is operating at peak efficiency. The harder it must work to perform its role, the more energy it will consume doing so. Removing debris and buildup, maintaining tubes and wiring in good order, and keeping thermostats operating optimally all avoid overworking your cooler.

3. It Prevents Emergencies

The last thing you need is to suffer a total breakdown of the freezer. You could lose all the food kept inside. You may even face an expensive replacement with added rush costs and no time to shop around. And you might lose business while dealing with the breakdown, repair, or replacement.

Many breakdown emergencies can be avoided with regular inspection and maintenance. During a maintenance visit, a professional repair tech will look over the entire unit from top to bottom. They will remove and clear the lines, degrease and clean coils, check oil and refrigerant, inspect compressor operation, verify thermostats, and sanitize ice machines (if applicable).

The best schedule for maintenance calls depends on your particular unit, its age, and its size. A reach-in freezer may only need annual or semi-annual checkups, but walk-in models may need maintenance more often due to equipment differences.

4. It Reduces Liability

The main reason your freezer and coolers are so valuable is that they protect customer health. Without proper refrigeration at correct temperatures, the health of everyone who eats at your establishment is at risk from bacteria like botulism, E. coli, and salmonella. Without clean tubing, even the ice in drinks could carry mold and mildew that threaten customers.

Improper cooling not only puts customers at risk but also puts your business at risk from legal and financial troubles - trouble that could even put you out of business if it's big enough. A simple maintenance call is an easy way to reduce your overall liability.

5. It Boosts Efficiency

Having working equipment that does its job means that you and your staff are free to do their jobs.

If you can rely on the freezer to maintain the right food temperatures, you don't have to check up on it and can focus on getting orders out. If you know that your freezer is reliable to contain larger orders, you can purchase more in bulk and even expand your services. And if the cooler is kept clean and fresh, you don't have to worry about sanitation issues behind the counter.

Any of these reasons alone is enough to see how valuable regular commercial freezer maintenance is. Added together, they're a compelling reason to schedule your next maintenance checkup today. At Appliance Repair Service , we are your partners in getting the most out of all your restaurant appliances. Call today to make an appointment.

Why Your Refrigerator's Temperature Has Been So Inconsistent

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 18:20:00 GMT

Refrigeration for food has been a game changer for society, but with that refrigeration comes the problem of keeping food in the right temperature range. Too high a temperature, and the food quickly spoils; too low a temperature, and the food ends up freezing and possibly changing in texture.

You can track the temperature inside both the freezer and refrigerator compartments. But then you might notice the temperature fluctuating a lot to the point where you start wondering if the coils or compressor are going bad. When the temperature inside the compartments changes, however, that could be due to something you're doing.

The Door May Be Slightly Open

Your refrigerator has adjustable feet in the back that let you lower the back end of the refrigerator. You want it tipped back just a bit so that the doors swing closed on their own without slamming into anyone trying to retrieve items from the compartments.

If the feet are not low enough, the door might still swing toward the refrigerator body on its own, but it won't quite close all the way. That leaves a gap that lets cold air out and lowers the temperature.

Open the refrigerator door all the way and stand back. Watch it close, and then push on the door. If it moves, that means it's been open and letting the temperature rise inside.

The Alarm Cord May Be Too Thick

Newer models of some refrigerators come with built-in door alarms that let you know if the door is open. However, you can buy separate alarms for appliances that alert you to changes in temperature. Some of these alarms sit inside the refrigerator and freezer, but others have a probe that sits inside the compartment and a display that sticks to the front of the door.

On some poorly made alarm models, the cord connecting the probe and display can be too thick, which will wedge the gasket of the door open a tiny bit. Even a tiny gap can let cold air out. The solution here is to get a different model of alarm with a thinner cord.

The Thermometer Might Be in the Wrong Place

Those charts that describe where to place different foods in your refrigerator aren't for decoration; they exist because your refrigerator's temperature varies by shelf and position, which means you may have the thermometer in the wrong place.

For example, a thermometer on the door will give very inconsistent readings because the items in the door are constantly exposed to warm room temperatures when you open it. You might be reducing the thermostat and finding your other food frozen.

If you have place your thermometer in the back of the main compartment on the lower shelf (not in a drawer), that can be too cold because the back of the refrigerator tends to be cooler than the rest.

If the instructions for the thermometer do not state where to place it, place it on the upper shelf. This is one of the warmer spots in most refrigerators, so as long as the display reads in the safe zone, you know the rest of the compartment should be fine.

You Might Have Too Much Food

Finally, you may simply have put too much food into the refrigerator, which prevents the flow of cold air around the compartment. You want the freezer to be full because frozen food acts as substitute ice, keeping the interior cold. But in the refrigerator, you want some space so that cold air can reach all of the items on each shelf.

If you've checked and adjusted all of those options, and you're still having trouble, call Appliance Repair Solutions and have a technician look at the motor, coils, and other parts of the appliance. The solution may still be simple yet require a new part.

Ways You May Hurt Your Refrigerator or Freezer

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 18:23:00 GMT

Refrigerators are an expensive yet necessary investment. Depending on how fancy you want your fridge to be, expect to pay between $900 and $8000 for a new one. Fortunately, that new fridge can last as long as 15 years as long as you treat it right.

How long will your fridge or freezer last? Look at some of the ways you might hurt your expensive appliance and what you should do instead.

Where You Place Your Appliance

Refrigerators and freezers both operate on the same principle. Refrigerant absorbs heat within the appliance and passes it through a series of coils designed to release that heat outside, usually at the back or bottom. The result is a cold or freezing interior. The compressor motor is responsible for this process and is the sound you hear when the fridge runs.

Where you place your fridge is important because you might prevent those coils from being able to release their heat. When coils cannot perform this task properly, the condenser must work harder and will ultimately fail before it should.

If your fridge or freezer has coils located down the length of its back, make sure your fridge is not too close to the wall. The same concept applies to any surrounding custom cabinetry. Have at least one inch of space at the back and sides of the fridge to allow heat to escape.

How You Take Care of Your Appliance

Those same coils behind your fridge need more than the right amount of space to breathe. You need to keep the coils clean in order to dissipate heat effectively. Lightly dust with a cloth or vacuum attachment to keep dust and cobwebs off, which allows heat to escape.

If the coils are below the fridge, vacuum underneath with the wand attachment of your vacuum. For extra reach below the fridge, add an empty paper towel roll to the end of the vacuum hose. Flatten one end to access the small space better.

Using the right power source for your fridge is another way to care for it properly. Only plug a fridge or freezer into an approved outlet containing three prongs for grounding. Don't use an extension cord. Most cords cannot handle the power amperage, and this raises the risk for electrical shocks and fires.

How You Use Your Appliance

Using your fridge correctly extends its life. However, you can use a fridge improperly.

Don't fill the fridge or freezer with too much food. When cartons, boxes, and bags of food are completely stacked to the top and sides, this leaves less room for cold air to circulate. Poor air circulation results in uneven temperature, prompting the fridge to work harder to compensate.

Over-stocking an appliance with food also blocks important vents located within the fridge or freezer, resulting in similar problems with air circulation. Instead, clean out your appliance regularly to help prevent over-filling and rearrange items so you don't block vents.

If your fridge has a water and ice dispenser, make sure you replace the filter regularly. If your neighborhood is prone to hard water, the filter becomes dirty quickly as it fills with minerals. A dirty filter can lead to a clogged or leaking water line.

How You Transport Your Appliance

If you plan to move in the future and your fridge will come with you, a proper way exists to transport your appliance. When you move the fridge, never lay it down on its back or side. Instead, keep it upright and use an appliance dolly to move it. This allows important compressor and refrigerant fluids to remain in place.

If you suspect something is wrong with your fridge or freezer, repairing it is often less expensive than buying a brand new appliance. Visit Appliance Repair Solutions for help getting your fridge or freezer running more efficiently again.

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Repairs

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 18:29:00 GMT

According to Procter & Gamble Co., the average family washes around 7 loads of laundry a week. If your washing machine isn't operating as it should, hire an appliance specialist to make repairs for you before your unit completely fails on you and your laundry starts piling up. Repairs are often more cost-effective than buying a new washing machine, so watch for indications that you should get repairs.

Here are signs your washing machine is in need of repairs.

Loads Need Rewashing

If you have to rewash your laundry loads because there is still soap residue on clothing and blankets or items come out wet but still harboring stains or debris, your washing machine isn't doing its job.

Before you blame your washing machine, however, make sure you are washing appropriately-sized loads. You should never overfill your washing machine or use more detergent than is recommended, as your loads can get unevenly washed this way and cause your washing machine to wear out trying to tackle large loads.

You should always be able to move washable items around in the washing machine freely before washing. If your washing machine is jam-packed with every load, the drum can't operate fully, leading to partially-washed loads and a worn washing machine motor.

Rocking and Shaking

If your washing machine rocks or shakes while it's going through its cycles, first check underneath the unit to make sure its legs are all on stable ground. Uneven leveling will cause your unit to rock or have too much movement, especially when spinning a rinse cycle or actively washing loads.

Your washing machine repair specialist will properly support your washing machine to keep movement at bay. Rocking motions will cause the fixture to wear out over time.

Leaks

Your washing machine should never leak. Leaks can be caused by excessive use of detergent on your part. The detergent can cause bubbles to overflow, filling the basin to its peak. Leaks can also be caused by faulty mechanisms within the unit itself.

Check your washing machine while it's in use to see where the leaks are coming from. If the washing machine is leaking out the back or is pooling water on the floor even when not in use, have the unit inspected.

Lack of Water

Another water-related issue with your washing machine is lack of water. If your washing machine only fills partially per load, then issues with connecting hoses, cycle switches, or other mechanical issues may be to blame.

You'll notice clothing coming out of your washing machine sopping wet or barely wet at all if there is a sensor issue in your washing machine causing water filling issues. Your appliance repair specialist will diagnose the cause of your washer's issues and will usually make repairs on-site.

Stuck Lid

Your washing machine won't finish a cycle if the lid doesn't properly close. If you have to slam the lid down, place a weight on the washing machine, or prop an item against a front-loading unit to encourage the lid to stay put, your washing machine needs to be repaired. A hinge issue may be all that is causing the problem.

Grinding

Washing machines aren't silent appliances, but they shouldn't whine, groan, grind, or make thumping sounds when they are in use. If your washing machine is louder than usual, check the drum first. A sock or bra strap might be stuck in the drum that is causing the unit to stick or grumble.

If you smell anything like burning rubber, chemicals, or other alarming odors coming from your washing machine while in use, turn off the unit via your home's breaker box and call for emergency repairs right away.

Your washing machine will last up to a decade or longer with proper use and care. Call us at Appliance Repair Solutions for your home appliance repair needs today.

Take Care of Your Dishwasher Before You Call a Technician

Fri, 04 May 2018 18:38:00 GMT

Your dishwasher saves you hours each week by scrubbing food and stains from your silverware and dishes so you don't have to — so it's no wonder that when you open your dishwasher after a cycle and remove a still-dirty dish, your heart sinks. Dishwasher repair can seem complicated, messy, and expensive, and no one looks forward to having a sink full of dirty dishes while they wait for a repairperson's help.

Luckily, you don’t have to jump straight to a repair or replacement. Instead, your dishwasher might just need a little TLC and elbow grease before it can run correctly again. Below, we'll fill you in on some warning signs that indicate your dishwasher needs attention, list a few steps you can take on your own, and explain when you need a repair technician to take a look.

Look for Warning Signs

The clearest sign that your dishwasher needs help is if your dishes are still dirty after a washing cycle. However, a few subtler signs also emphasize that a dishwasher needs maintenance, repair, or replacement. Take action if you notice any of the following problems:

Water on the floor after a cycle
A scent of mold or mildew when you open the dishwasher
Food scraps on the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle
Soapy residue on otherwise clean dishes
Rust on the inside of the dishwasher

If your dishes feel cool to the touch immediately after a cycle, you could have a sanitary problem on your hands: the water might never have been hot enough to properly clean dishes, especially items like cutting boards used to slice raw meats.

Perform Basic Dishwasher Maintenance

If you notice any of the above signs (barring the last one, which requires immediate professional attention to ensure your dishwasher is hygienic), you don't necessarily need to panic. Instead, you can try a few maintenance tips — it could be that you haven't paid enough attention to your dishwasher recently and it just needs to be cleaned and cared for.

If you haven't ever cleaned your dishwasher, first run a cycle with a half-cup to a cup of vinegar. Make sure to run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle to get the most out of the cleaning. Next, run the dishwasher with half a cup of baking soda sprinkled on the bottom. Baking soda can scour hard-water deposits and other debris built up on the inside of the dishwasher.

When cleaning with vinegar and baking soda isn't enough to restore your dishwasher to working order, you need to look at the dishwasher's moving parts:

The spray arms, which spray water from the bottom of the dishwasher to the top, can get clogged. You should be able to remove the spray arms for easier cleaning.
Like your HVAC system, your dishwasher has a filter that needs to be cleaned or replaced every three to six months. Once you remove the spray arms, you can access and clean the filter.
Hard water can cause scale buildup that slows your dishwasher's efficiency. If you find scale or food deposits beneath the filter and spray arms, use a solution of baking soda and vinegar to scour the area.

A few simpler problems could also be causing your problems. For instance, if you tend to stack the dishes awkwardly, they won't emerge cleanly from the dishwasher. Try rearranging your dishes before you call a repair technician.

Contact a Professional

If you've tried the above steps and your dishwasher still won’t operate at full capacity, you probably have a bigger problem on your hands than a simple clogged spray arm or filter. The issue likely isn't one you can solve on your own, but a repair technician can diagnose the issue and recommend a repair or replacement as needed.

If you've hit the point where you need to call in the specialists, Jesse & Sons Appliance Repair Solutions is here to help. Get in touch to schedule an efficient, affordable, and effective dishwasher repair.

3 Signs Your Range is in Need of Repairs

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 18:43:00 GMT

Cooking is a science, especially when you're using an oven and stovetop that’s typically found on a range within your home. Getting the exact temperatures and settings makes a big difference when you're making meals and preparing foods.

When something malfunctions in the range, your meals may not turn out the way you planned. Not only are meals ruined, but food may spoil, fire hazards could be present, and your ability to properly cook may be greatly impaired.

Replacing a whole range may cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Getting the repairs needed will allow you to keep your range and return to the proper cooking abilities you once had. Learn about the three signs your range is in need of repair so you know when to contact a repair technician.

1. Overcooked Meals

If you constantly find your meals a little overcooked, brown on the edges, or burning up quickly, then your oven may not be cooking meals at the temperature you set. One way your oven knows what temperature to set is through built-in sensors inside of the oven.

When the temperature sensor malfunctions, your oven is unable to regulate the proper temperature, and the oven often adds continuous heat with no limitations. When you open an oven, you may feel the outpouring temperature is a lot hotter than it originally seemed.

An oven repair technician has the ability to replace the temperature sensor and calibrate your range to ensure proper temperatures are set for both the stove and oven. Once repaired, you can follow recipes and ensure the food cooks properly — just how it was originally intended to cook.

2. Undercooked Meals

A watched pot never boils, but for a malfunctioning stove, the pot may take way too long to actually reach a boiling point. All of the knobs on a stovetop are calibrated to specific heat settings. Many stoves include low, medium, and high settings. When you are cooking on the stove, you may notice food takes longer to cook and the stove just doesn't seem hot enough.

Over time, the calibration of the knobs may come off or not work properly at all. A number of factors contribute to this, including general malfunctions, grease build-up, or daily use of the knobs. A repair technician has the ability to help your stovetop cook properly and get water boiling at a much faster rate than you are used to.

During this process, the knobs and parts of the oven are typically taken apart, cleaned, and calibrated using professional repair tools. By the end of the process, your stove top will work properly and efficiently each time you cook.

3. Error Messages

Modern ovens often use computer scans and LED screens to showcase error messages when problems arise. Often, these error messages may clear off if the range is unplugged and plugged back in or the "Stop/Clear" button is pressed. The error messages shouldn't be ignored or cleared.

The messages help indicate the initial problem and help prevent bigger problems from occurring in the future. A variety of error messages built into ovens and ranges include the letter "E" for error or "F" for fault. Each letter is typically followed by a numerical code. The codes vary by range model and manufacturer.

A repair technician can get a lot of information from the error codes and begin the repair process with the code. In some cases, the malfunction may be with the computer circuit board itself. Inputs may be read correctly and temperature settings may be off. Replacing the main range control will help ensure everything works properly in the future.

Your range is essential for cooking and goes a long way toward providing your home with fresh cooked meals and desserts. When your home appliances stop working, contact us at Appliance Repair Solutions for all your repair needs.

5 Dos and Don'ts for Keeping Your Refrigerator in Tip-Top Shape

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 18:48:00 GMT

Whether you have recently purchased a new refrigerator or have used the same fridge for a while, you need to properly maintain it for efficiency and longevity. Knowing when to call in a professional repair technician is important. In addition, there are a few measures you can take to keep your refrigerator working properly. Here's what you should and should not be doing.

1. Do Inspect the Refrigerator Gaskets Frequently

Your refrigerator gaskets provide an airtight seal to lock in the cold, maintain the set temperature, and keep your foods fresh. Broken, cracked, or otherwise damaged gaskets may not do the job as intended. This in turn may cause your refrigerator to work harder or not be energy efficient. When the cold air escapes due to a faulty gasket, your energy bills may rise.

If the refrigerator gaskets seem damaged, you need to have them replaced at once. You should also keep the gaskets clean. Wipe them down periodically using a mild dish soap and warm water. Hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach will remove mildew.

When tough dirt, debris, and grime become difficult to remove with a simple wipe down, remove them from the unit. Soak the gaskets in a large basin or in the bathtub. Next, dry them off before replacing them.

2. Don’t Neglect the Refrigerator Coils and Cooling Fan

Over time, the coils and cooling fan may become dirty from dust and debris. To keep your refrigerator operating efficiently, keep these areas clean. The coils and fan should be cleaned about once or twice a year. You can do this yourself or have a service technician do the job for you.

How is this task performed? It's relatively quick and easy. First, remove the lower grate and the back panel to access the coils and fan. Always shut off power by unplugging the unit first. A condenser brush will help remove dirt and debris.

If the coils or the fan are especially dirty and dusty, the technician may use a vacuum with an extended hose to clean them.

3. Do Prevent and Eliminate Refrigerator Odors

One simple way to prevent odors in the refrigerator is to keep all food items tightly sealed and covered. However, when odors do occur, you will need to eliminate them. After you remove all food contents, clean the refrigerator thoroughly.

For mild odors, try a solution of baking soda and water. For more stubborn odors, you might want to try using a solution of chlorine bleach and water. Placing a container of activated charcoal or coffee grounds in the fridge may also work. When you use bleach, be sure the area is well ventilated.

As a last resort, call a technician if you cannot remove the odors from your refrigerator. A repair tech may dissemble some parts to determine the cause of the odor.

4. Don’t Ignore Temperature Fluctuations

Has your fridge temperature been fluctuating, or has the temperature remained consistent? If you notice variations in the interior temperature is an ongoing issue, schedule an appointment with a service technician. Temperature fluctuations could indicate a problem that warrants repair.

5. Do Keep the Freezer Defrosted

If you notice ice building up in the freezer, you need to take action before it becomes a serious issue. If you are manually defrosting your freezer, help it along by placing a bowl of hot water inside. This may make the process go faster. If your refrigerator does not have a drip pan, place something on the floor to avoid a wet mess as the ice melts.

As a final thought, if you notice anything unusual pertaining to your refrigerator, contact a professional. Having the problem resolved before it escalates into something serious may save you money on repair or replacement.

When Should You Call Your Appliance Repair Person?

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 18:51:00 GMT

Being handy around your home is a great way to save money, but there are certain times when it's best to call a professional. If you don't call a professional when you need to, the damage could either get worse or become dangerous. But how can you tell whether it's an issue that you can resolve safely yourself or if it's an issue that requires the use of a professional service?

Your Appliance Causes a Flood

Water damage can cause anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to fix, depending on the severity. A small pool in your kitchen is fine, but an inch of standing water that's spreading to your living room is not. If you have a steadily leaking dishwasher or washing machine, call a professional first. This is especially true if you can't find your water shut-off valve. Water causes more damage than people think, including warped structures and cracking grout.

Your Appliance Has Electrical Issues

If you get zapped when you touch an appliance, hear an ominous buzzing sound, or have the lights flickering in the room, your appliance likely has an electrical issue. Not only should you avoid touching the appliance, but you may even want to avoid entering the room.

Electrical problems aren't just dangerous; they're also often unpredictable. You may be able to trigger further electrical problems without realizing it, which could not only damage your electrical system, but potentially injure you.

Your Appliance May Be a Fire Risk

Is there a strange burning smell coming from your washer? Have you seen smoke coming from your dryer? If there's any type of fire risk, call in a professional. Fire can spread extremely quickly and sometimes it can even go unnoticed — a small electrical fire in an appliance could be written off as nothing, leading to a larger fire later in the day or night.

Not only should you call a professional if you suspect a fire hazard, but you should call them as soon as possible, along with unplugging the device.

Your Appliance Needs Parts

Sometimes you can easily see what's wrong with an appliance, such as a pump no longer functioning, or a circuit board being fried, but that still leaves you with the task of purchasing parts. You’ll be better off if you purchase a part through a professional.

Not only will they know exactly what part you need, but they can usually purchase these parts much cheaper — which means you may be able to get the part and the installation for the same amount that you'd pay for the part alone.

Your Appliance Is Fairly New

If something has gone wrong in a fairly new appliance, there may be something that's defective within the appliance itself. Older appliances normally need repairs more often, but newer appliances should be more reliable.

Newer appliances also may have more complex mechanisms, which could be damaged by DIY work. If your appliance is fairly new, you should look at the manufacturer's warranty, and if the warranty can't provide help, you should probably call a professional who is skilled in work with this type of machine.

Your Appliance Has Persistent Problems

If you've already tried to repair your appliance multiple times, you probably a professional service is needed. The real problem with your appliance may be something else entirely — or your appliance may simply be ready to go.

If your appliance’s problems are beyond your capabilities, call a skilled professional today to help you out. Appliance Repair Solutions can deal with the problem quickly and expertly. Contact Appliance Repair Solutions today to get a quote on your service.

Oven Maintenance Tips

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 18:56:00 GMT

The kitchen is the heart of your home. And when part of it isn't working right, everyone knows. From Thanksgiving dinner to pizza night, your oven gets a regular workout. That means it needs regular maintenance if you want to keep it in working order.

What can you do to make sure that your oven stays in top shape? Even though it's tempting to order out and save the appliance for special occasions only, that just isn't practical. You have to use your oven, possibly every day. With that in mind, following a regular maintenance routine and taking care of this kitchen appliance is absolutely essential.

Without proper attention, your stove might fail you when you need it most.

While you can't always stop problems from appearing, caring for your oven might mean the difference between pricy repairs and a consistently working appliance. Before you get into oven trouble, take a look at these easy-to-apply maintenance tips.

Clean the Oven

This is the best way to keep your oven in top shape. Cooking isn't always neat and tidy. Even though you try to keep things clean, spills happen. Spills equal gunk, grime and debris that can build up on the inside of your oven. Not only will cooking in your oven cause interior issues, but stovetop spills can drip onto the knobs and make their way down around the oven door.

Find out whether your oven is a self-cleaning oven or not. If your oven isn’t a self-cleaning oven, you should only clean it with cleaning supplies, whereas a self-cleaning oven can clean itself.

There are more than a few commercially-available oven cleaners. Use these chemicals to get the grime off of your oven. If you're sensitive to some smells or if you just don't like the idea of using chemicals where you cook, you have other options. A baking soda, vinegar and dish soap mix will clean the grease from your oven — minus the major chemical smells.

Don't put off cleaning your oven until the day before Thanksgiving or when you have a special occasion.

Regular cleaning will help to make sure that your oven won't build up a thick, potentially clogging layer of grease and grime. After you use the oven and it has cooled, wipe down the oven. Wipe the oven down at least once a week this will help to keep it clean and may reduce the likelihood that it will need repairs.

This doesn't mean you need to do a heavy-duty cleaning all of the time. Save that for three to four times a year.

Self-Cleaning Ovens

If your oven is self-cleaning, avoid chemical cleaners during routine care. These may damage your oven. Instead, opt for a cleaner made specifically for self-cleaning ovens or run the self-cleaning feature a few times per year.

How does the self-cleaning feature work? It heats the oven to the point of burning off spills and other types of leftover debris. Most self-cleaning cycles last between two and four hours, depending on the model.

Clean the Accessories

You've cleaned the stove-top, wiped down the interior and made sure that everything is debris-free. But what about the accessories? Broiler pans, oven racks and stovetop grates and burner pans all need attention. These often need more care than the stove or oven itself.

These accessories typically see the brunt of the mess during cooking. Remove them from the oven or stove and clean them in warm, soapy water. Thoroughly dry all of the accessories before putting them back on or in your oven.

Call the Expert

f your oven isn't working and you've cleaned it, and you've made sure there are no grease clogs as they stop your oven from working properly. Once you’ve done everything you can think of but the oven still isn’t working it's time to have a professional look at it.

What could be a simple problem that's easy to fix right now can turn into something much more major if you let it go. Routine care from a professional appliance repair service can help your oven to work at its very best. The experts at Appliance Repair Solutions can help.

Five Tips for Saving Energy When Using Your Dishwasher

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 19:00:00 GMT

A dishwasher can significantly cut down the amount of time you spend cleaning up after a meal. However, like many appliances, dishwashers can consume a lot of water and electricity with each cycle, between 4 to 6 gallons of water and up to 1.59kWh of electricity. It may not seem like much, but those amounts can add up if you use the appliance multiple times a day. Here are five tips to help you save energy when using your dishwasher.

Always Wash a Full Load

The simplest thing you can do to save energy is wash full loads every time you use the appliance. Your dishwasher uses the same amount of water and electricity regardless of how many dishes are sitting on the racks, so it's at its most efficient when it's full.

Having said that, this will be easier for some to do than others. Families with kids may have no problem filling a dishwasher, while a home with only one or two adults may struggle to fill a single rack. If the latter situation describes your home, consider buying a dishwasher with a half-load option. This type of dishwasher focuses the cleaning spray on a single rack, which uses less water and energy.

Use the Air-Dry Setting

Almost all dishwashers use heat to dry dishes, which decreases drying times and helps kill any bacteria that may be leftover after the cycle has run. If you don't need to use your dishes right away or don't require items to be extra sanitized (e.g. baby bottles), set your dishwasher to use air-dry instead.

This option turns off the dishwasher heater so the fan circulates room temperature air inside the appliance to dry the dishes. Using the air-dry option can reduce your dishwasher's energy consumption by 15 percent. If your machine doesn't have this feature, simply crack the dishwasher door open a little at the end of the cycle to let air inside or manually dry the dishes with a kitchen towel.

Run the Appliance at Night

Another thing that will help you save money and energy is running your dishwasher at night or in the early morning. This will accomplish two things. Utility companies charge extra for electricity used during peak demand hours. By using the dishwasher at night or early morning (i.e. between 9 pm and 7 am), you'll be charged off-peak rates, which can be up to five times less than normal rates.

Second, you won't contribute to the heat gain your air conditioner has to battle against to keep your home cool during hot summer days. As noted previously, dishwashers use heat for washing and drying, and the heat escapes into the surrounding area. This can cause your air conditioner to run longer to combat the extra warmth.

By running the appliance at night when it's naturally cooler, you'll avoid this problem.

Preheat the Water

Some dishwasher models preheat water before using it to wash the dishes. You can tell this is the case if it takes a while (sometimes up to 30 minutes) before the appliance actually starts the clean cycle. As you can imagine, this can cause the appliance to waste a lot of time and energy.

Since dishwashers typically draw water from the same pipe as the kitchen sink, a simple way to combat this is to turn on the faucet until it runs hot. This draws water from the hot water heater and minimizes the need for the dishwasher to run its own preheat cycle

Clean on a Regular Basis

Lastly, you want to clean your dishwasher on a regular basis. Food particles and mineral deposits often accumulate in the sprayer arm and other areas, which can cause clogs and force your dishwasher to work harder than necessary. Regularly cleaning the machine eliminates this build-up and keeps your dishwasher functioning efficiently.

For more information about saving energy, keeping your dishwasher in tip top shape, or help to fix a problem with your machine, give Jesse & Sons Appliance Repair Solutions a call.