Help Center

Appliance Problems

Symptom-led — what to check when something stops working right.

• Cooktop burner not heating — what to check first

  An induction or electric cooktop burner that won't heat is usually a pan-detection or connection issue, not a full failure. Here's what to check.

• Dishwasher not cleaning dishes — what to check first

  Dishes coming out dirty is almost always a spray arm, filter, or hard-water problem — not a broken machine. Here's what to check.

• Dryer not heating — what to check first

  A dryer that runs but doesn't heat is usually a lint or venting problem, or a blown thermal fuse — not the whole unit failing. Here's what to check.

• Freezer not freezing — what to check first

  A freezer that's running but not holding temperature is almost always airflow or a door-seal problem. Here's what's worth checking before you call.

• Microwave not heating — what to check first

  A microwave that runs but doesn't heat almost always needs a technician — but a couple of quick checks rule out the simple stuff first.

• Oven not heating evenly — what to check first

  Uneven baking is usually a temperature calibration issue or a failing heating element, not something wrong with the whole oven. Here's what to check.

• Range burner won't light — what to check first

  A burner that won't light is usually a clogged port or seating issue — but gas ignition problems are never a DIY fix. Here's the safe version.

• Refrigerator not cooling — what to check before you call

  A refrigerator that's not cooling is usually airflow, a dirty condenser coil, or a door seal — not a compressor failure. Here's what to check first.

• Washer won't drain or spin — what to check first

  A washer that won't drain or spin is usually a clogged pump filter or an unbalanced load, not a broken motor. Here's what to check before calling.