Your home appliances work hard every day—and when something breaks down, it can throw off your entire routine. The good news? Many common appliance issues can be prevented or resolved with simple at-home maintenance and troubleshooting. At Appliance Repair SWFL, we’re not just here to fix your appliances—we’re here to help you get the most out of them for years to come. Whether you’re a hands-on homeowner or just want to understand what’s going wrong, here’s a complete guide to caring for your appliances the smart way.
Before you call in the pros, take a few minutes to check the basics. Many appliance issues are caused by things you can fix yourself with minimal tools or effort.
Dirty coils are one of the most common causes of poor cooling performance. Located underneath or behind the fridge, these coils collect dust, pet hair, and debris over time. Cleaning them every 6 months with a coil brush or vacuum can restore cooling efficiency.
A cracked or loose gasket lets cold air leak out, forcing your fridge to work harder. Close the door on a dollar bill—if it slides out easily, it’s time to replace the gasket.
The optimal refrigerator temperature is 37°F, and your freezer should be at 0°F. Accidentally nudged dials can throw off internal temps.
Soap scum and mildew can build up inside the drum. Run a hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar, then a follow-up with baking soda to deodorize and kill bacteria.
Most front-load washers have an accessible filter that catches hair, lint, and small objects. Cleaning this every 2–3 months prevents clogs.
Excessive vibration or incomplete cycles may mean your machine is unbalanced. Adjust the legs until the washer sits firmly and evenly on the floor.
Even a thin layer of lint reduces airflow and drying efficiency.
Clogs or crimps in the vent hose slow down airflow. Disconnect the hose and vacuum both ends every few months.
If your dryer is noisy or leaks heat, the drum seals may need replacement—a common issue in older units.
Food particles often clog the spray holes. Remove the arms and rinse them under hot water, using a toothpick to clear blockages.
Specialized cleaners break down grease, limescale, and soap residue.
Water and detergent need space to reach every surface—especially with heavily soiled dishes.
Regular upkeep can prevent 80% of the most common appliance problems and extend the life of your machines by 3 to 5 years. These tips don’t require advanced skills—just consistency.
Using a vacuum or specialty brush. Dirty coils lead to higher energy use and wear on the compressor.
Air needs to circulate. Leave at least 20% of the fridge free for proper cooling.
Every 6 months, or as recommended, to ensure clean drinking water and proper ice maker function.
Some liners block airflow or trap heat—only use ones rated for your appliance model.
If your gas burner clicks but doesn’t ignite, clean and realign the burner cap. For electric stoves, check for cracked or worn elements.
Place an oven thermometer inside and compare it to your set temperature. A 20–30 degree variance may indicate the need for recalibration.
Especially with front-load washers—this allows moisture to escape and prevents mold.
Replace rubber hoses with braided stainless steel every 5 years.
HE (High-Efficiency) washers require HE detergent to avoid excess suds and internal buildup.
A blocked dryer vent is a leading cause of household fires and poor performance.
If a load takes more than 45–60 minutes to dry, it may be time for a professional vent cleaning.
Plastic or foil vents trap more lint and are more prone to damage.
A clean appliance is a healthy appliance. These tips can reduce wear, energy use, and even eliminate odors and allergens.
DIY is great—but safety and effectiveness matter. If these issues pop up, call Appliance Repair SWFL before the problem worsens:
Our certified, insured techs provide same-day service throughout Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Estero, Marco Island, and Sanibel Island. We bring over 15 years of local experience and a commitment to clean, respectful service every time.
You can handle basic maintenance like cleaning, gasket replacement, and filter changes. For anything involving gas, electricity, or refrigerants, it's best to call a licensed technician.
Most major appliances last 10–15 years. Regular maintenance can add 3–5 years.
We service all major brands, including Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, GE, Frigidaire, Bosch, KitchenAid, and more.
You can handle basic maintenance like cleaning, gasket replacement, and filter changes. For anything involving gas, electricity, or refrigerants, it's best to call a licensed technician.
If the repair is less than 50% the cost of replacement and the unit is under 10 years old, repair is typically more cost-effective.
Don’t ignore strange sounds. A humming fridge or rattling dryer is often a warning sign.
Use surge protectors. Power surges can fry control boards in sensitive appliances.
Read the manual. Yes, really—your owner's manual has helpful maintenance intervals and care suggestions.
Pro Tip: Label your breakers for quick access when troubleshooting or cutting power for a DIY repair.
At Appliance Repair SWFL, we’re more than technicians—we’re neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re proud to help homeowners across:
Naples • Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Cape Coral • Estero • Marco Island • Sanibel Island
Book online or give us a call. Our friendly team is ready to help.
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