Appliance Troubleshooting Made Simple

If a fridge stops cooling or a dryer won’t dry, you don’t have to panic. Most home appliances give clues about what’s wrong. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common issues, show you easy checks you can do yourself, and tell you when it’s time to call an expert.

Common Problems and Quick Fixes

Water heaters – No hot water? First, check the breaker and make sure the pilot light (if you have a gas unit) is lit. Look for a tripped safety switch on the unit. If the heater is over ten years old, sediment may be clogging the tank. Flushing the tank can restore performance, but if you see rust or a leaking tank, consider a replacement.

Washing machines – A washer that won’t spin often means the lid switch is faulty or the drain hose is blocked. Pull the hose out and clear any kinks or debris. Run a short cycle without clothes to see if the spin returns. If the machine still hums but doesn’t move, the motor coupler may need a replace.

Tumble dryers – If the dryer takes forever to dry, the lint filter is probably clogged. Clean it and also check the vent pipe outside; a blocked vent reduces airflow and can cause overheating. A hot, dry dryer that won’t heat usually points to a blown thermal fuse – that part needs a professional’s attention.

Ovens and hobs – No heat from an electric oven? Test the heating element with a multimeter – if it shows no continuity, the element is dead and should be swapped. For a gas hob, a clicking sound with no flame often means the igniter is dirty. Turn off the gas, clean the igniter tip, and try again.

Heat pumps and boilers – A heat pump that cycles off quickly may have a dirty filter or a low‑temperature warning. Replace the filter and reset the system. For a boiler that’s making strange noises, bleed the radiators to release trapped air and check the pressure gauge; low pressure can cause the boiler to shut off.

When to Call a Pro

Some fixes are safe for DIY, but others involve electricity or gas and need a certified technician. If you ever smell gas, hear a hissing sound, or see water leaking from a heating unit, shut off the supply and call a professional right away.

Similarly, if you’ve tried the basic checks above and the appliance still won’t work, it’s probably a deeper issue like a faulty control board or a cracked tank. A qualified repair service can diagnose the problem quickly and often fix it cheaper than a full replacement.

At Nuneaton Appliance Repair Experts we specialise in all the appliances mentioned – from washing machines and dryers to boilers and heat pumps. Our technicians arrive quickly, bring the right tools, and explain what’s wrong in plain English.

Bottom line: start with the easy checks, keep safety first, and don’t hesitate to call a pro when the problem feels beyond your comfort level. With the right approach you’ll spend less time without hot water, laundry, or a working oven – and more time enjoying a smoothly running home.