Appliance Repair Help & FAQs

Look for a metal tag or sticker on your appliance. For refrigerators, check inside the fresh food compartment on the side wall. For washers/dryers, look inside the door or on the back panel. For dishwashers, check the door frame or inside edge of the door. The model number typically starts with letters followed by numbers.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the original manufacturer to exact specifications. Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers and may vary slightly in design while maintaining the same function. OEM parts typically cost more but guarantee exact fit and performance. PartsDiscount.com offers both OEM and quality aftermarket parts at the best prices online with FREE shipping.

Always match the complete model number of your appliance with the part compatibility list. Check the part number if available, and verify physical dimensions. When in doubt, contact customer service with your model number for confirmation.

You need your complete appliance model number (not just the brand), the part description or part number if known, and the serial number for newer appliances. Having the manufacture date can also help ensure compatibility. At PartsDiscount.com, our experts provide FREE technical support to help verify part compatibility.

Some parts are universal (like certain belts, hoses, and filters), while others are brand-specific. Always verify compatibility through part number cross-reference or manufacturer specifications before ordering.

Generally, if the repair cost is less than 50% of a new appliance's price and your appliance is less than 10 years old, repair is worthwhile. Consider the appliance's overall condition and energy efficiency.

The most frequently replaced parts include water filters, door seals/gaskets, heating elements, drive belts, pumps, thermostats, and control boards. These parts typically wear out with normal use over time.

Regular cleaning, proper usage according to manufacturer guidelines, prompt repair of minor issues, and scheduled maintenance significantly extend part life. Avoid overloading appliances and use appropriate detergents and cleaners.

Common causes include dirty condenser coils (clean every 6 months), blocked air vents, faulty door seals, or temperature settings. Check that vents aren't blocked by food items and ensure door seals are tight.

Replace every 6 months or after filtering 200-300 gallons of water. Signs you need replacement include slow water flow, bad taste/odor, or the filter indicator light. Find genuine replacement filters at PartsDiscount.com with FREE shipping and best prices online.

Check the ON/OFF switch, water supply connection, water filter (replace if clogged), and ensure freezer temperature is below 10°F. The fill cup should align properly under the water fill valve.

Usually caused by warm, humid air entering through damaged door seals, frequent door opening, or leaving the door ajar. Check and replace worn door gaskets.

Signs include loud noises, refrigerator not cooling, frequent cycling, or the compressor feeling extremely hot. A failing compressor often requires professional replacement.

Normal sounds include humming (compressor), clicking (defrost timer), and gurgling (refrigerant). Loud rattling may indicate loose components or worn fan motors that need replacement.

Remove the old gasket by pulling it from the retainer groove, clean the channel thoroughly, then press the new seal firmly into place starting from the corners.

Set refrigerator to 37-40°F and freezer to 0-5°F for optimal food safety and energy efficiency. Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify accuracy.

Common causes include clogged defrost drain, damaged water line connections, cracked drain pan, or worn door seals allowing humidity buildup.

Most refrigerators last 12-15 years with proper maintenance. Consider replacement if repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit's price or if it's over 10 years old.

Check water filter, water line connections, dispenser switch, and control board. Frozen water lines or faulty dispenser actuator are common causes.

Dirty coils, warm room temperature, frequent door opening, faulty thermostat, or low refrigerant can cause continuous running. Clean coils first.

Check for unbalanced loads, faulty lid switch, worn drive belt, or bad transmission. Start by redistributing clothes evenly and ensuring the lid closes properly.

Every 3-5 years as preventive maintenance. Replace immediately if you see bulges, cracks, or signs of wear. Use stainless steel braided hoses for better durability.

Usually caused by unbalanced loads, unlevel machine, or worn suspension components. Level the machine and ensure it's on a solid, stable surface.

Check for clogged drain hose, lint buildup in pump filter, or failed drain pump. Remove any visible clogs and clean the pump filter regularly.

Verify water supply valves are open, check inlet hoses for kinks, clean inlet valve screens, or replace faulty water inlet valves.

Signs include the drum not turning during wash cycle, burning smell, or visible belt damage. The agitator or drum will move freely by hand if the belt is broken. Find quality replacement belts at PartsDiscount.com with FREE shipping and best prices online.

Top-load washers typically last 10-14 years, while front-load washers last 8-12 years. Proper maintenance can extend this significantly.

Usually indicates a broken drive belt, faulty lid switch, clogged pump, or unbalanced load preventing proper spin cycle operation.

Run an empty hot water cycle with 2 cups white vinegar monthly. Clean door seals, dispensers, and lint filter regularly to prevent odors and buildup.

Error codes indicate specific problems like unbalanced loads (UE), lid issues (LE), or drain problems (OE). Consult your manual for specific code meanings and solutions.

Moisture trapped in door seals and drum creates mold. Leave door open after cycles, clean seals monthly, and run cleaning cycles with washer cleaner.

Faulty water level switch, stuck water inlet valve, or incorrect load size setting can cause overflow. Check water level controls and inlet valve operation.

Most commonly caused by clogged lint screen, blocked exhaust vent, or faulty heating element. Clean lint screen after every load and check exterior vent for blockages.

Squeaking usually indicates worn drum rollers, idler pulley, or drive belt. Grinding sounds may indicate worn drum bearings that need replacement.

Check the lint screen, exhaust vent, thermal fuse, heating element, and gas supply (for gas dryers). A blown thermal fuse is the most common cause. Get genuine dryer parts at PartsDiscount.com with FREE shipping and guaranteed fit.

Clean the entire vent system annually, or more frequently with heavy use. Signs you need cleaning include longer drying times and clothes feeling very hot after cycles.

Usually indicates overheating due to restricted airflow, blown thermal fuse, or faulty door switch. Check lint buildup and ensure proper ventilation.

Most likely a broken drive belt. Other causes include seized drum rollers, worn idler pulley, or motor issues. Check if the drum moves freely by hand.

The drum will turn freely by hand with no resistance, and you may hear the motor running but drum not turning during operation.

Gas dryers have igniters and gas valves that can fail, while electric dryers have heating elements and thermostats. Both share common issues like belts and motors.

Usually caused by overloading, over-drying, or leaving clothes in the drum too long after cycle ends. Use proper load sizes and remove clothes promptly.

Most dryers last 10-13 years with proper maintenance. Regular vent cleaning and lint removal significantly extend lifespan and improve efficiency.

Usually a weak igniter that glows but doesn't generate enough heat. Other causes include faulty gas valve, clogged gas ports, or gas supply issues.

Overheating due to restricted airflow, faulty thermostat, or damaged heating element. Check venting and replace faulty temperature controls.

Check for clogged spray arms, dirty filter, incorrect loading, wrong detergent, or hard water buildup. Clean spray arm holes with a toothpick if blocked.

Most common causes include clogged filter, blocked garbage disposal, kinked drain hose, or failed drain pump. Clean the filter and check disposal first.

Hard water mineral deposits cause white spots. Use rinse aid, adjust water temperature to 120°F, and consider a water softener for very hard water.

Check door seals, spray arm connections, hose clamps, and water pump seals. Over-sudsing from wrong detergent can also cause leaks.

Clean the bottom filter monthly by removing and rinsing under hot water. A clogged filter reduces cleaning performance and can damage the pump.

Check power supply, door latch, control lock, and water supply. Ensure the door is completely closed and latched securely.

Food debris in filter, spray arms, or door seals creates odors. Clean filter monthly and run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar.

Check rinse aid dispenser, water temperature (should be 120°F), and heating element. Some dishwashers require rinse aid for proper drying.

Most spray arms lift out or twist off. Clean holes with a toothpick, or replace if cracked. Ensure proper alignment when reinstalling.

Most dishwashers last 7-12 years. Regular cleaning and proper loading extend life. Consider replacement if repairs exceed half the cost of a new unit.

Clogged spray arms, dirty filter, incorrect water temperature, or worn wash pump motor can cause poor cleaning. Pre-rinse heavily soiled items.

Normal operation includes some noise, but grinding sounds indicate debris in pump or worn motor bearings. Remove any foreign objects from filter area.

For electric ovens, check heating elements and temperature sensor. For gas ovens, check igniter, gas supply, and safety valve. A faulty igniter is most common.

Usually caused by faulty temperature sensor, thermostat, or control board. Use an oven thermometer to verify temperature and calibrate if possible.

Check for blocked vents, faulty heating elements, worn door seals, or improper rack positioning. Convection fans may also need cleaning or replacement.

Most commonly a weak or faulty igniter. Other causes include clogged gas ports, faulty gas valve, or gas supply issues. Igniters glow but may not generate enough heat.

Look for visible damage like cracks, blisters, or dark spots. A bad element may glow unevenly or not at all. Test for continuity with a multimeter.

Check door hinges, springs, and alignment. Worn hinges or springs can cause improper sealing, leading to heat loss and cooking problems.

Usually food spills burning on heating elements or oven bottom. Clean thoroughly and check that elements aren't damaged or touching oven walls.

Check the burner element, socket connection, and infinite switch. Burner elements can burn out and need replacement. Ensure proper seating in socket.

Replace when cracked, torn, or no longer creating a tight seal. Good seals are crucial for proper temperature control and energy efficiency.

Gas ranges typically last 15-17 years, electric ranges 13-15 years. Proper cleaning and maintenance significantly extend appliance life.

Weak heating elements, faulty temperature sensor, or poor door seal can cause slow preheating. Check elements for proper glow and door seal integrity.

Usually moisture or debris around the igniter. Clean burner caps and igniter area thoroughly. Faulty spark modules may also cause continuous clicking.

Most likely a failed magnetron, which generates microwaves. Other causes include faulty door switches, high voltage diode, or transformer. Professional diagnosis recommended.

Remove any metal objects. Check for damaged waveguide cover, worn interior paint, or food debris. Replace waveguide cover if damaged.

Check for obstructions under the plate, ensure proper alignment on center ring, or replace faulty turntable motor if it won't turn.

Grinding sounds may indicate worn turntable motor or stirrer assembly. Loud humming could indicate magnetron issues requiring professional service.

Check that door is completely closed, door switches are functioning, and control panel isn't locked. Door switch failure is common in older units.

Grease filters should be cleaned monthly and replaced when damaged. Charcoal filters (over-range models) should be replaced every 6-12 months.

Usually indicates magnetron failure, high voltage diode problems, or faulty door switches. This typically requires professional repair or replacement.

Most microwaves last 7-10 years with regular use. Built-in models may last longer than countertop units due to better construction.

Error codes indicate specific faults like door sensor issues, overheating, or control problems. Consult your manual for specific code meanings.

Microwave repair involves high voltage components and radiation risks. Most repairs should be left to qualified technicians for safety reasons.

Check the reset button on the bottom of the unit, circuit breaker, and electrical connections. Press reset firmly and ensure power is reaching the unit.

Hard objects, fibrous foods, or grease buildup can cause jams. Never put bones, fruit pits, or non-food items down the disposal.

Food particles trapped in the unit create odors. Clean with ice cubes and rock salt, or grind citrus peels. Regular cleaning prevents buildup.

Check mounting assembly, drain connections, and bottom seals. Tighten connections or replace worn gaskets. Major leaks may require professional replacement.

Avoid grease, bones, fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks), coffee grounds, eggshells, and non-food items. These can damage blades or clog drains.

Turn off power, use the hex key (allen wrench) on the bottom to manually turn the motor, or use disposal tongs to remove visible obstructions.

Normal operation creates grinding sounds. Unusual metallic noises may indicate damaged blades or foreign objects that need removal.

Most garbage disposals last 8-15 years depending on usage and maintenance. Higher horsepower units with better construction typically last longer.

1/3 HP for light use (1-2 people), 1/2 HP for average use (3-4 people), 3/4-1 HP for heavy use (5+ people) or frequent cooking.

Usually indicates clogged drain pipes beyond the disposal. Run cold water while operating and avoid putting grease down the drain.

Many parts can be DIY replaced with basic tools and following safety procedures. Complex electrical or gas work should be left to professionals.

Basic toolkit includes screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, multimeter, flashlight, and appliance-specific tools like nut drivers.

Monthly cleaning, quarterly inspections, and annual professional maintenance help prevent major repairs and extend appliance life.

Always disconnect power, turn off gas if applicable, wear safety glasses, and follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

Call professionals for gas line work, complex electrical repairs, warranty work, or if you're uncomfortable with any aspect of the repair.

Many parts can be recycled. Refrigerant-containing parts require professional disposal. Check local recycling programs for metal parts.

DIY repairs typically save 50-75% compared to professional service calls, but factor in tool costs and your time value. Save even more with quality parts from PartsDiscount.com - FREE shipping and best prices online!

Always disconnect power first. Use a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage. Never work on live circuits without proper training.