Simple Troubleshooting Tips That Could Save You Time and Money
When an appliance suddenly stops working, it’s easy to assume the worst. Fortunately, many appliance problems are caused by something simple that you can safely check yourself before calling a repair technician.
At Welkom Appliance Repairs, we’ve repaired thousands of household appliances over many years. We’ve found that a surprising number of service calls are caused by simple issues such as a switched-off plug, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blocked filter.
Before booking a repair, spend just a few minutes working through these easy checks. You might solve the problem yourself—or at the very least help your technician diagnose the fault more quickly.
1. Check the Power Supply
This is the most common issue we encounter.
Ask yourself:
- Is the appliance plugged in securely?
- Has someone accidentally switched off the wall socket?
- Is there electricity in the house?
- Has the circuit breaker or earth leakage tripped?
- Does another appliance work in the same plug?
Never assume the appliance is faulty before checking the power source.
2. Check for a Tripped Circuit Breaker
Visit your home’s electrical distribution board.
Look for:
- A breaker that has switched OFF.
- An earth leakage switch that has tripped.
- Burn marks or unusual smells.
If a breaker immediately trips again after resetting it, unplug the appliance and contact a qualified technician.
3. Read the Display
Modern appliances are designed to tell you when something is wrong.
Look for:
- Error codes
- Flashing lights
- Warning symbols
- Beeping sounds
Write down exactly what appears on the display before switching the appliance off.
This information can save valuable diagnostic time.
4. Restart the Appliance
Computers sometimes need rebooting—and so do modern appliances.
Try this:
- Switch the appliance off.
- Unplug it.
- Wait five minutes.
- Plug it back in.
- Restart the appliance.
Electronic control boards occasionally reset after a complete power cycle.
5. Check the Door or Lid
Many appliances will not operate unless the door is fully closed.
Check:
- Door closes properly.
- Nothing is trapped in the seal.
- Door latch clicks into place.
- Hinges are not damaged.
A faulty door switch is a common cause of washing machines and tumble dryers refusing to start.
6. Inspect Water Supply (Washing Machines & Dishwashers)
If your appliance isn’t filling with water:
- Ensure the water tap is open.
- Check the inlet hose isn’t kinked.
- Make sure nobody has turned the tap off.
- Look for leaks.
Low water pressure can also prevent some machines from operating correctly.
7. Clean the Filters
Blocked filters cause many unnecessary breakdowns.
Regularly clean:
- Washing machine pump filter
- Dishwasher filter
- Dryer lint filter
- Refrigerator condenser (if accessible)
A clean appliance runs more efficiently and lasts longer.
8. Check for Blocked Drain Hoses
If your washing machine or dishwasher won’t drain:
- Inspect the drain hose.
- Ensure it isn’t kinked.
- Look for obvious blockages.
- Make sure the hose hasn’t slipped too far down the drain pipe.
Never force objects into the hose.
9. Is the Appliance Overloaded?
Overloading can prevent appliances from operating correctly.
Examples include:
- Washing machine packed too tightly.
- Tumble dryer overloaded.
- Dishwasher stacked incorrectly.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended load size.
10. Listen Carefully
Unusual sounds can provide valuable clues.
Examples:
- Clicking
- Grinding
- Buzzing
- Humming
- Knocking
- Squealing
Try to remember:
- When the noise starts.
- How long it lasts.
- Whether the appliance still operates.
This information helps your technician identify the fault more quickly.
11. Check for Water Leaks
Look around the appliance.
Check for:
- Water underneath.
- Damp flooring.
- Wet hoses.
- Loose connections.
Turn the appliance off immediately if you discover a major leak.
12. Is the Appliance Level?
An uneven appliance may vibrate excessively or refuse to operate correctly.
Check:
- Adjustable feet.
- Stability.
- Floor condition.
This is especially important for washing machines.
13. Check Your Refrigerator Temperature Settings
Sometimes someone accidentally changes the controls.
Recommended temperatures:
- Refrigerator: 3°C to 5°C
- Freezer: -18°C
If the settings are too warm, food may spoil even though the appliance is working normally.
14. Clean Around the Appliance
Poor airflow causes overheating.
Keep clear space around:
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Tumble dryers
Remove accumulated dust whenever possible.
15. Don’t Ignore Burning Smells
If you notice:
- Burning smells
- Smoke
- Sparks
- Melted plastic
Immediately:
- Switch off the appliance.
- Unplug it if safe.
- Do not continue using it.
- Call a qualified technician.
Safety should always come first.
What You Should Never Attempt
Some repairs should always be left to professionals.
Avoid:
- Opening electrical control panels.
- Working on live electrical wiring.
- Cutting sealed refrigeration pipes.
- Bypassing safety switches.
- Attempting gas appliance repairs.
- Replacing electronic control boards without proper testing.
Incorrect repairs often cause more damage and increase repair costs.
Why Choose Welkom Appliance Repairs?
At Welkom Appliance Repairs, we believe in honest advice and professional workmanship. If these DIY checks don’t solve the problem, our experienced technicians are ready to help.
We repair many leading appliance brands and offer reliable service throughout Welkom, Riebeeckstad, Bedelia, Flamingo Park, Naudeville, Dagbreek, Doorn, Jim Fouché Park, St Helena, Jan Cilliers Park, Welkom Central, Harmony, Virginia, Hennenman, Odendaalsrus, Ventersburg, Allanridge, and surrounding areas.
Our Details
Welkom Appliance Repairs
25 Celuta Place
Riebeeckstad
Welkom
Telephone: 057 388 4131
Cell: 082 461 9365
We offer:
- Professional appliance repairs
- Washing machine repairs
- Fridge repairs
- Dishwasher repairs
- Tumble dryer repairs
- Oven repairs
- Stove repairs
- Microwave repairs
- Honest quotations
- Quality workmanship
- Six-month guarantee on qualifying repairs
Call today and let our experienced team help get your appliance working again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I unplug my appliance before checking it?
Yes. Unless you are simply checking the power supply or display, always disconnect the appliance before inspecting it.
Is it safe to reset a circuit breaker?
Yes, provided you know how to do so safely. If it immediately trips again, stop using the appliance and call a technician.
Can blocked filters stop a washing machine from working?
Absolutely. A blocked pump filter is one of the most common reasons washing machines fail to drain.
Should I repair my appliance myself?
Only perform simple maintenance and visual inspections. Internal electrical or mechanical repairs should always be carried out by a qualified technician.
How do I know when it’s time to call a professional?
If you’ve completed the basic checks and the appliance still doesn’t work, or if you notice smoke, burning smells, leaking water, or electrical problems, contact a qualified appliance repair technician immediately.
Need professional appliance repairs in Welkom?
Contact Welkom Appliance Repairs today for friendly, reliable service and expert repairs you can trust.
DIY Appliance Checks Before Calling a Technician
Simple Troubleshooting Tips That Could Save You Time and Money
When an appliance suddenly stops working, it’s easy to assume the worst. Fortunately, many appliance problems are caused by something simple that you can safely check yourself before calling a repair technician.
At Welkom Appliance Repairs, we’ve repaired thousands of household appliances over many years. We’ve found that a surprising number of service calls are caused by simple issues such as a switched-off plug, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blocked filter.
Before booking a repair, spend just a few minutes working through these easy checks. You might solve the problem yourself—or at the very least help your technician diagnose the fault more quickly.
1. Check the Power Supply
This is the most common issue we encounter.
Ask yourself:
- Is the appliance plugged in securely?
- Has someone accidentally switched off the wall socket?
- Is there electricity in the house?
- Has the circuit breaker or earth leakage tripped?
- Does another appliance work in the same plug?
Never assume the appliance is faulty before checking the power source.
2. Check for a Tripped Circuit Breaker
Visit your home’s electrical distribution board.
Look for:
- A breaker that has switched OFF.
- An earth leakage switch that has tripped.
- Burn marks or unusual smells.
If a breaker immediately trips again after resetting it, unplug the appliance and contact a qualified technician.
3. Read the Display
Modern appliances are designed to tell you when something is wrong.
Look for:
- Error codes
- Flashing lights
- Warning symbols
- Beeping sounds
Write down exactly what appears on the display before switching the appliance off.
This information can save valuable diagnostic time.
4. Restart the Appliance
Computers sometimes need rebooting—and so do modern appliances.
Try this:
- Switch the appliance off.
- Unplug it.
- Wait five minutes.
- Plug it back in.
- Restart the appliance.
Electronic control boards occasionally reset after a complete power cycle.
5. Check the Door or Lid
Many appliances will not operate unless the door is fully closed.
Check:
- Door closes properly.
- Nothing is trapped in the seal.
- Door latch clicks into place.
- Hinges are not damaged.
A faulty door switch is a common cause of washing machines and tumble dryers refusing to start.
6. Inspect Water Supply (Washing Machines & Dishwashers)
If your appliance isn’t filling with water:
- Ensure the water tap is open.
- Check the inlet hose isn’t kinked.
- Make sure nobody has turned the tap off.
- Look for leaks.
Low water pressure can also prevent some machines from operating correctly.
7. Clean the Filters
Blocked filters cause many unnecessary breakdowns.
Regularly clean:
- Washing machine pump filter
- Dishwasher filter
- Dryer lint filter
- Refrigerator condenser (if accessible)
A clean appliance runs more efficiently and lasts longer.
8. Check for Blocked Drain Hoses
If your washing machine or dishwasher won’t drain:
- Inspect the drain hose.
- Ensure it isn’t kinked.
- Look for obvious blockages.
- Make sure the hose hasn’t slipped too far down the drain pipe.
Never force objects into the hose.
9. Is the Appliance Overloaded?
Overloading can prevent appliances from operating correctly.
Examples include:
- Washing machine packed too tightly.
- Tumble dryer overloaded.
- Dishwasher stacked incorrectly.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended load size.
10. Listen Carefully
Unusual sounds can provide valuable clues.
Examples:
- Clicking
- Grinding
- Buzzing
- Humming
- Knocking
- Squealing
Try to remember:
- When the noise starts.
- How long it lasts.
- Whether the appliance still operates.
This information helps your technician identify the fault more quickly.
11. Check for Water Leaks
Look around the appliance.
Check for:
- Water underneath.
- Damp flooring.
- Wet hoses.
- Loose connections.
Turn the appliance off immediately if you discover a major leak.
12. Is the Appliance Level?
An uneven appliance may vibrate excessively or refuse to operate correctly.
Check:
- Adjustable feet.
- Stability.
- Floor condition.
This is especially important for washing machines.
13. Check Your Refrigerator Temperature Settings
Sometimes someone accidentally changes the controls.
Recommended temperatures:
- Refrigerator: 3°C to 5°C
- Freezer: -18°C
If the settings are too warm, food may spoil even though the appliance is working normally.
14. Clean Around the Appliance
Poor airflow causes overheating.
Keep clear space around:
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Tumble dryers
Remove accumulated dust whenever possible.
15. Don’t Ignore Burning Smells
If you notice:
- Burning smells
- Smoke
- Sparks
- Melted plastic
Immediately:
- Switch off the appliance.
- Unplug it if safe.
- Do not continue using it.
- Call a qualified technician.
Safety should always come first.
What You Should Never Attempt
Some repairs should always be left to professionals.
Avoid:
- Opening electrical control panels.
- Working on live electrical wiring.
- Cutting sealed refrigeration pipes.
- Bypassing safety switches.
- Attempting gas appliance repairs.
- Replacing electronic control boards without proper testing.
Incorrect repairs often cause more damage and increase repair costs.
Why Choose Welkom Appliance Repairs?
At Welkom Appliance Repairs, we believe in honest advice and professional workmanship. If these DIY checks don’t solve the problem, our experienced technicians are ready to help.
We repair many leading appliance brands and offer reliable service throughout Welkom, Riebeeckstad, Bedelia, Flamingo Park, Naudeville, Dagbreek, Doorn, Jim Fouché Park, St Helena, Jan Cilliers Park, Welkom Central, Harmony, Virginia, Hennenman, Odendaalsrus, Ventersburg, Allanridge, and surrounding areas.
Our Details
Welkom Appliance Repairs
25 Celuta Place
Riebeeckstad
Welkom
Telephone: 057 388 4131
Cell: 082 461 9365
We offer:
- Professional appliance repairs
- Washing machine repairs
- Fridge repairs
- Dishwasher repairs
- Tumble dryer repairs
- Oven repairs
- Stove repairs
- Microwave repairs
- Honest quotations
- Quality workmanship
- Six-month guarantee on qualifying repairs
Call today and let our experienced team help get your appliance working again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I unplug my appliance before checking it?
Yes. Unless you are simply checking the power supply or display, always disconnect the appliance before inspecting it.
Is it safe to reset a circuit breaker?
Yes, provided you know how to do so safely. If it immediately trips again, stop using the appliance and call a technician.
Can blocked filters stop a washing machine from working?
Absolutely. A blocked pump filter is one of the most common reasons washing machines fail to drain.
Should I repair my appliance myself?
Only perform simple maintenance and visual inspections. Internal electrical or mechanical repairs should always be carried out by a qualified technician.
How do I know when it’s time to call a professional?
If you’ve completed the basic checks and the appliance still doesn’t work, or if you notice smoke, burning smells, leaking water, or electrical problems, contact a qualified appliance repair technician immediately.
Need professional appliance repairs in Welkom?
Contact Welkom Appliance Repairs today for friendly, reliable service and expert repairs you can trust.