The appliances in our homes serve a critical role in supporting our lifestyle. When they don’t work, that is a problem. We asked Rosie Certified Partner Daniel Beyer of Beyer’s Appliance Service Inc. to join us and walk us through the options available when appliances don’t work.
Repairing or replacing appliances
Daniel tells us that, based on his experience, there are several reasons why people replace appliances.
- Aging Unit: Homeowners begin to worry that their unit will fail due to age. They want to replace it before it wears out or breaks down.
- A Desire to Update: There are new functions and technologies that people want in appliances, such as convection ovens or smart appliances that can be monitored from a smartphone.
- Energy Savings: Energy Star Appliances can help reduce their home’s energy consumption.
- Aesthetics: Appliances are sometimes replaced with updated versions that match a new remodel or paint job, complementing their décor. They simply never liked it!
Regardless of the reason, it is always worthwhile to take the time to consider repairing the appliance. Some older models, even those 15 –20 years old, may be able to be rebuilt, and Daniel says they can last another 15+ years.
Evaluate the appliance
There are a variety of ways to evaluate the issue with a broken appliance. The goal of an evaluation is to determine what is needed: a trade-in, a new appliance, a used and rebuilt appliance, or a repair.
To have your appliance diagnosed:
- In-home diagnostics. A technician visits your home and examines the appliance firsthand. While a trip charge is typically associated with a visit, it is often credited back with the purchase of a repair, trade-in, or rebuilt appliance.
- Bring your appliance into the shop. This option might save a trip charge for smaller appliances.
- Smartphone video chat: You can talk with a technician and describe the problem with your phone using live video to help evaluate the issue.
**As a side note, Daniel’s company uses this same video technique to sell refurbished appliances, saving you a trip to his store in Tempe.
The goal of the options is to help you make an informed decision about the appliance. Daniel tells us they sell new and rebuilt parts, which you or the technicians can use to make repairs. The goal is to keep costs down.
What to do with older appliances
A room with several stoves and ovens
AI-generated content may be incorrect., PictureOnce you have made the decision to replace an appliance with either a new or refurbished appliance, here are some options to consider.
- Trade it in: In many cases, the old appliance can be repaired and even refurbished to improve its appearance. It potentially has value so don’t skip that option.
- Recycle: If you’re buying a new appliance, consider recycling the old one for parts or a rebuild. Recycling keeps the appliance out of the landfill, which is a good thing.
Regular appliance maintenance is a must!
Here are some tips on the upkeep of your appliances. How often you practice these tips will depend on how often you use them.
- Dryer: Clean the lint filter after every load. Vents and ducts should be cleaned about every 6 months.
- Washing Machine: Approximately every 30 cycles, use a cleaning fluid or tablets to clean the system. Clean the gasket at the door of front-loading washing machines monthly to prevent mold from growing.
- Dishwasher: Run a cleaning cycle every six months or so. There are commercial detergents you can use, or you might use a cup of white vinegar placed in a cup on the bottom rack and run a cycle without detergents.
- Microwave: On a monthly basis, depending on usage, clean the vents. Pay particular attention to the vents of the microwave if it is located above a stovetop. Clean interior surfaces with a mild detergent. Heat a cup of water in the microwave first to soften the build-up and make the task easier.
- Ranges: Clean the surface with grease-cutting dish soap for best results and as often as is needed to prevent build-up. Also, make sure the burners are dust and grease-free on a gas stove.
- Refrigerator: Clean the door seals to ensure a good seal and prevent air leakage. The coils on the back of the fridge should be vacuumed every six months or so to keep dust build-up to a minimum.
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, you will want to check the water filters when you clean the coils. A cracked filter can cause significant water damage to your home, even after just a few hours.
What about current energy standards?
New appliances must adhere to the current energy standards as they are manufactured. These standards are designed to conserve energy and utilize safe chemicals, such as refrigerants.
Daniel notes that Energy Star standards do not apply to existing models manufactured prior to the current standards. A refurbished or used appliance is not required to meet current standards. Yet another way for you to get the biggest bang for your buck!
Do you want a DIY or professional repair?
AI-generated content may be incorrect., Picture DIY repairs are a great way to save money. A handy person can make many repairs with basic tools. If DIY is not your bag of tea, a professional repairman is the key to a successful repair. Companies like Beyer Appliance provide a good source for both scenarios. With a video chat it can be possible to determine which is the better way to go saving time and energy.
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