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Plumbing and Appliance Services

WELCOME TO THE APPLIANCE HELP TIPS PAGE

** CLICK ON ANY APPLIANCE NAME ABOVE **
to see tips revealed.

While we are more than happy to service your appliance needs, often times a problem can be caused by a small overlooked item and can be repaired by you. Take a few minutes to view these tips to see if you can identify the problem yourself. If this doesn't solve your problem then please contact us at (713.526.1491) and we will schedule an Appliance Technician at a convenient time for you.

REFRIGERATOR HELP TIPS

Heat affects how well the refrigerator cools. Always locate refrigerators away from heat sources like your stoves, ovens and windows. The motor and coils require airflow so never locate the refrigerator near anything that will restrict the airflow. Make sure that the refrigerator is always located on a hard surface like tile, linoleum hardwood etc.

Refrigerators are designed to operate directly plugged into the wall receptacle. If you use an extension coed ensure that the cord is rated for the proper amperage as specified by the manufacture.

The refrigerator cools the inside contents by air circulation. If you over fill the refrigerator the air will not circulate properly and the inside contents temperature will not be regulated.

Just like your automobile, regular maintenance ensures a long life for your refrigerator. Periodically: clean the seals in order to maintain proper temperature control and system efficiency, brush off buildup that may cause overheating around the coils and remove dust and debris from under the refrigerator to maintain proper airflow.

If your refrigerator is not running or is not cold enough...

  • Some refrigerators have two thermostat adjustments. One for the freezer the other for the refrigerator. It will be labeled. Increase the refrigerator thermostat to the next highest setting. Watch to see if the compressor comes on. When it does let it run for 24 hours and check the temperature to confirm it is working properly.
  • Verify the refrigerator has proper airflow. Make sure that is has a few inches of clearance from the back wall and that there is no debris under the box.
If the door is sticking or not closing properly...
  • The gasket must be kept clean. Take a wet rag and wipe down the gasket. Inspect all the shelves to ensure that something is not keeping the door from closing.

STOVE HELP TIPS

Electric Stove

  • Inspect the heating elements to ensure that they are seated properly.
  • Check the circuit breaker
Gas Stove
  • If you have electric ignition: turn the knob to light and listen for the click and visually look for the spark.
Gas Oven
  • Rise up the top and keep the area clean and free of grease build-up.

DISHWASHER HELP TIPS

Washer is not cleaning dishes properly

  • The water temperature must be at least 120 degrees, be careful the water at this temperature is extremely hot and will cause burns. If the water it is not hot enough, increase the hot water heater thermostat up to a higher setting.
  • Refer to the owner’s manual to verify that you are using the proper loading procedures.
  • Detergents have an expiration date. Make sure that it is fresh.
  • The lower spray arm must be unobstructed and turning freely.
  • Look for debris in the bottom of the washer.
  • If unit is dead check the wall switch.
The door won’t close
  • Make sure nothing is blocking the door from opening and closing properly. Make sure the latch assembly is unrestricted and latching properly.
The washer leaks
  • Refer to the owner’s manual to verify that you are using the proper loading procedures.
  • Operate the washer while empty to see if it still leaks.
  • Verify that the racks are positioned properly.
  • Inspect around the door and check for any type of obstructions around the opening.

CLOTHES WASHER HELP TIPS

If machine is dead...

  • Refer to the Owners guide to ensure that the correct timer settings are used.
  • The lid must be closed properly.
  • Ensure that both water faucets are open.
Front loader machine
  • If odor present leave door open to dry out machine.
  • Use proper detergent as recommended by the manufacturer.

DRYER HELP TIPS

Clothes are not drying properly

  • Verify that the lint filter is clean.
  • Verify that the discharge exhaust duct is open on the outside of the home.
  • Verify that the discharge hose is not pinched off restricting the airflow
  • If completely dead check breaker

DISPOSAL HELP TIPS

Disposal hums.

  • Ensure that the wall switch is in the off position., Insert the "un-jamming" tool supplied by the manufacture, into the bottom and turn clockwise. Once it turns freely remove tool and try operations.
Disposal is dead.
  • Check power reset switch located on the bottom of the disposer
Notes: Always run water during operation
A 1/4" Allen Wrench maybe used instead of the "un-jamming" tool

FREEZER HELP TIPS

!!(Never use a knife, pick, hammer, chisel, screwdriver, etc. or any sharp object to remove ice buildup. You may poke a hole in the cooling coils located under the plastic liner)!!

Unit is not self-defrosting:

Temperature begins to rise...

  • Check door seal to ensure that nothing is obstructing it.
  • If frost build up is excessive, manually defrost the unit. (This will make a lot of water so protect the area).
  • Defrost the unit once a year or as often as needed. Follow the proper defrosting methods.
Other Models that are self defrosting
  • Check to ensure that the door is sealing properly.

MICROWAVE HELP TIPS

  • Never operate empty.
  • Do not use metal cooking pans unless the manufacture specifically allows it. Check your owner's manual).
  • Use only microwave approved cooking dishes, pans etc.
  • If unit is completely dead, check the breaker.

Village Plumbing & Home Services Appliance Technicians "Pledge to our Customers"

  • We pledge to be "The Cleanest Technicians in Town."
  • We pledge to offer customers the best value for the repair.
  • Since our company is built on a solid foundation of excellent customer service since 1946, we pledge complete customer satisfaction.
  • We pledge to be ethical and accurate with all repairs offered to you our customer.
  • Your home is most likely your single largest investment. We pledge to respect your home and property and leave them as clean as we found them.
  • Being a woman owned business, it is our commitment to pay close attention to details. Village Plumbing & Home Services pledges to make sure that your home continues to bring you the pride and security that you can depend on throughout the years.