6 Appliances Most Likely to Break, and What to Expect
When an appliance quits, it rarely picks a convenient moment. Knowing which machines commonly need repairs, and what the early warning signs look like, can help you plan ahead instead of scrambling. Here are six household workhorses that often end up on a repair technician's schedule.
1Refrigerators that run warm or never stop running
Your refrigerator works around the clock, so it's no surprise that it's one of the appliances people commonly call about. Frequent trouble spots include the compressor, the defrost system, door seals, the evaporator fan and, on models that have them, ice makers and water dispensers.
Watch for food spoiling sooner than usual, frost building up in the freezer, water pooling under the crisper drawers, or a motor that seems to run constantly. Clicking sounds or unusual heat from the back can also point to a problem. Simple fixes like a worn gasket or a clogged drain line are often inexpensive, while a failed compressor or a leak in the sealed system can cost enough that many owners weigh replacement instead.
Cleaning the condenser coils, wiping down the door seals and leaving space around the unit for airflow can help it run more efficiently. If a repair is needed, ask the technician for a written estimate and how the cost compares with buying a new model before you approve the work.