Appliance faults vary from the annoying, such as oven bulbs breaking, to nasty surprises that could be a real financial worry, such as your washing machine no longer spinning.
Faults are more common than you might think, too. Half of us have had one in the past three years, according to a survey of 1,043 Which? members in November 2020.
Most of our respondents' reaction to a dud appliance was to buy a replacement. A third hired a repairer to look at it, and just one in eight tried to repair it themselves.
But you can actually fix many of the most common faults yourself. Make sure you switch off the appliance before attempting any repairs, though.
Knowing when to repair or replace saves money and stops appliances being scrapped - so you're doing your bit for the environment as well as your wallet.
Below, we've listed the most common faults found in each popular home appliance* and, with the help of eSpares.co.uk, we explain how to repair them, when to call a professional and when to buy a replacement:
Washing machines
- Wobbly or noisy drum
Almost all modern washing machine drums are sealed shut, so you can't take them apart to fix the bearings (the most likely source of any problems).
This means you'll need to replace the whole drum - a costly and difficult repair that should be left to the professionals. As it can cost a lot, you may be better off buying a new model. Get a quote before making your decision.
- Electrical failure
These faults can probably only be fixed by replacing the printed circuit board (PCB) in the control panel.
A Beko PCB can cost £50, but Samsung or LG ones can set you back around £150. Either way, you'll need a professional to do it, adding at least £70 to the cost.
You may well consider it more cost-efficient to buy a whole new washing machine, although it's worth finidng out exactly what your repair will cost first.
- Not emptying water
If your washing machine isn't draining away water, the first thing to check is the filter behind the latch under the
door.
Try cleaning it out. If that doesn't help, a replacement costs around £7. If that doesn't fix the problem, it will probably be the drain pump. This is tricky to replace yourself and isn't for the faint-hearted.
Read our full washing machine repair guide for more information, or if you need a replacement head to our washing machine reviews.
Tumble dryers
- Electrical failures
A faulty circuit board (PCB) could cause the dryer to trip the electrics or not turn on, even when the plug and fuse are working.
Just like with washing machines, the PCB is expensive to replace - £100 to £200. Add the price of professional repair and it may be more cost effective to buy a new dryer.
- Auto sensor problems or poor drying
Poor drying or problems with the auto shut-off sensor could be due to a host of issues. The heater could need replacing, which is a pretty simple fix for an engineer, but it could be an issue with the timer, which comes down to the PCB.
For condenser models, it could mean the condenser needs changing. If you're unsure, call a professional.
Don't try to fix something you're not confident with, as it could cause a fire risk.
- Wobbly or noisy drum
This could be down to the bearings, as with a washing machine, but it could also the drive belt. This can be a cheap fix for a professional.
If the belt is intact, but it's not spinning, the motor could have conked out, which would cost at least £100 for the part plus £70 or more for a professional to do the job.
Read our top tumble dryer repair and maintenance tips. Or head to our tumble dryer reviews to get a replacement.
Fridge freezers
- Not maintaining correct temperature or a build-up of ice in fridge
This could be an issue with the door seal. Check for any tears, warping in the corners or even bits where the seal has hardened. You can replace it yourself. Sometimes it's as easy as pulling out the old one, but you might have to loosen some screws that keep it in place. New seals for are often available online, for £30 to £100.
The problem could also lie with the thermostat behind the temperature dial in your fridge. This can be replaced with a few home DIY tools, with parts available from £30. If you control your fridge-freezer using digital controls on the front, this is much more difficult to fix and worth calling a professional to give you a quote.
- Broken drawers or flap-lids
New drawers can be bought online. It's just a question of buying the specific part for the model you have. Be warned though that manufacturers can charge a lot for these, so be sure to shop around to see if you can get the one you want cheaper elsewhere.
Our fridge-freezer reviews will help you buy a reliable replacement.
Fridges
- Water leaking at the bottom of the fridge / broken drainage
This could be caused by a blocked drain hole. Water condenses at the back of the fridge, where it's colder, and runs down into the drain hole, where it can be evaporated away by the compressor.
Dust, dirt and food waste often get stuck in it, but you can easily clean it with a thin straw, bit of wire or a cotton bud. If this doesn't work, you may want to buy a special drain hole cleaning tool (available for about £5). A professional repairer can also use a steam cleaner to get further into the pipe.
If the fault does turn out to make your fridge a write-off, make sure you read our fridge reviews before buying a replacement.
Cordless vacuums
- Faulty battery / not lasting as long as it used to
All lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time, but those batteries can often be replaced. A cordless vac can only be a Best Buy if the battery is replaceable. The bad news, though, is that they can be expensive.
Some Dyson spares are available from between £65 (for the V6) to £85 (for the V11). But if you need a V10 battery, you have to email Dyson directly.
Keep your battery lasting for as long as possible by only charging it with the official charger and away from heat. Try not to drain the battery completely, too. Freqent short charges are better for keeping it healthy.
Head to our Best Buy cordless vacuums to find those with replaceable batteries that came out top of our tests.
Corded vacuums
- Brush not working properly
A good clean and detangling of hairs might fix this - you might need to remove the casing, called the soleplate, which is normally as easy as unscrewing it. If the brush is broken, you can easily buy and fit a replacement yourself.
It could also be the brush belt at fault. Remove the soleplate and check whether the belt is broken. If you need to fit a new one, replacements usually cost less than £10 but can be a little fiddly to fit, as sometimes the clutch needs to be removed as well.
- Loss of suction
This could be caused by blocked pipes or filters. If you continue using the vac, the motor can overheat and fail. Try taking as much as you can apart and giving it a good clean, including the filters. Replacement filters can cost as little as £4, depending on your model.
If you still think it's lost suction, it may be the motor. This is pricey to replace and needs a professional, so you might prefer to buy a new vac.
Not sure if you want a corded or cordless vacuum? Read our vacuum cleaner comparison guide.
Dishwashers
- Not draining properly or at all
The number-one cause here is a blocked filter or pump, which you should be able to sort out yourself. The pump is often under the filter. You'll need to take off the cover and wash inside. If this still doesn't fix it, then check whether the drain hose at the back of the machine is blocked.
- Door seal broken
You'll know your door seal is broken if your dishwasher is leaking slightly. You can buy a replacement from as little as £10.
- Electrical fault
With electrical faults, professional fixes can cost upwards of £100, so it might not be worth it for older or cheaper models. Get an engineer to give you a quote before making your decision.
For more in-depth repair advice, read our full dishwasher troubleshooting guide.
Built-in ovens
- Oven light breaking
You can easily buy a new oven lightbulb from just £4. Search for the bulb of your specific model online and make sure you switch the oven off at the mains before replacing. The bulb cover should be simple to remove, like twisting off a jar's lid, but can differ depending on your model.
- Oven not heating up properly or at all
Resetting the timer could be the ticket here, and is worth a try anyway as a possible free fix.
Replacing the thermostat, fan or heating element is trickier and needs a professional. Do get a quote for these before rushing to replace your appliance though. It will usually be cheaper than buying and installing a new oven.
If a repair is too expensive, read our built-in oven reviews before buying a new one.
Hobs
- One burner or zone not working
This will entirely depend on the type of hob you have.
If your gas burner isn't igniting, it's pretty obvious that the spark isn't working. If it's not staying lit, it will be down to the thermocouple (the safety switch that makes sure it doesn't stay on when not lit). Replacing this is a job best left to the professionals, and can cost around £100 to fix.
If you have an electric hob, whether ceramic or induction, faults are much harder to diagnose. Your best bet is to call a professional or get a replacement.
- Touch controls not working properly or at all
Problems with the controls will be down to the circuit board (PCB), tucked away under the glass surface. You'll need a professional to quote to replace this. It's tricky and expensive, so you may find you're better off replacing the whole thing.
If that's the case, read our guide on how to buy the best hob.
*Most common faults come from a survey of more than 13,000 Which? members in September 2020.
FAQs
When should I replace or repair my appliances? ›
How to Follow the 50% Rule. In 2021, the cost to repair an appliance ranged from $100 to $300. Should you pay it? If an appliance is more than 50% through its lifespan and if the cost of one repair is more than 50% of the cost of buying new, you should replace rather than repair.
What are the common problems of appliances? ›- Refrigerator Leaks Water. The main job of your fridge is to keep food cold and fresh for longer periods of time. ...
- Dishwasher No Longer Drains. ...
- Dryer Not Drying Clothes Properly. ...
- Gas Range Won't Light or Heat Up. ...
- Front-Loading Washing Machine Has Mold Around Door.
The average life expectancy of a new washing machine is 11 years. Consumer Reports recommends replacing any appliance that's more than eight years old, unless it's a high-end model and has a particular appeal to you.
When should I replace my washer and dryer? ›Third-party consumer testing agency, Consumer Reports, states that most people feel their washer and dryer should each last about 10 years. So, if you've had your laundry appliances for more than a decade, it may be time to think about shopping for new ones soon.
When should you repair or replace Consumer Reports? ›But whether you do the repair yourself or hire a pro, our long-standing advice remains. Don't spend more than 50 percent of the cost of a new product on repairing an old one. And if an item has already broken down once before, replacement may make more sense.
How often should you replace your appliances? ›The average lifespan of a home appliance is around 10-15 years. Even with the best maintenance and care, most won't function properly past their life expectancy. If the repair cost is more than the cost of replacing the appliance, it makes more sense to replace it.
What should we do with the faulty or malfunction appliances? ›Call a professional service person. In most cases, broken or malfunctioning appliance parts can be replaced more quickly and inexpensively than they can be repaired by you or a professional. Replace any broken or malfunctioning parts with new parts made especially for that appliance.
What is the importance of troubleshooting and repair in an appliance? ›By maintaining and fixing problems early, your appliances won't use as much energy and you can save on the utility bills that may have increased due to the problems.
What are the common faults in refrigerator? ›Due to rigorous use and wear and tear, a refrigerator may develop issues like cooling problem, defrost problem, faulty wiring, broken drain plate, sparking from socket, door closing problem, drain blockage etc.
How often should you replace washing machine supply lines? ›Whether they're made of black rubber or stainless steel, washer hoses need to be replaced about every three to five years. If it's been that long, or if the hoses are showing signs of wear, it can be easy to replace them if you follow these simple steps: Turn off the water supply.
When should I avoid using my washing machine? ›
According to the Daily Record, the most expensive time to use your washing machine or tumble dryer is between 4pm and 7pm. Energy prices are at their lowest between 10pm and 5am, but make sure you never leave it on over night as this could be a fire risk.
Is it better to repair or replace washer and dryer? ›If your washer needs a major repair such as a new motor, tub or transmission, you're often better off replacing the washer rather than repairing it; a major repair often costs more than half the price of a replacement washer.
Should I replace my 20 year old refrigerator? ›If your 20-year-old fridge has been running well, and only needs minor repairs once in a while, then it is worth keeping it, instead of replacing it. Though, if it ends up needing a major repair, then you should think about replacing the fridge.
Is 10 years old for a washer and dryer? ›Washers and dryers last 10 to 13 years on average.
Because they don't have to contend with as much water as washers do, dryers last a little bit longer—about 13 years, regardless of whether the dryer is powered by gas or electricity.
Simply, when the cost of repair is less than than the value of that piece of equipment, you should repair it. When the cost of repair is higher than the value of the asset, you should replace it.
What is right to replace or repair? ›The right to repair refers to proposed government legislation to forbid manufacturers to impose barriers that deny consumers the ability to repair and modify their own consumer products (e.g. electronic, automotive devices or farm vehicles such as tractors).
Why is repair better than replacement? ›When a repair takes place, more times than not when the item is repaired, the parameters and software can remain protected. Not only will the replacement be more expensive, but you will have to do more work afterwards to reinstall your data.
Can a fridge last 30 years? ›Estimates of the life cycle of kitchen appliances vary. For example, refrigerators can last anywhere from 14 to 27 years, according to Phoebe Knight of It is Fixed Appliance Repair in Sandy Springs, GA. Freezers tend to last for a little less long, from 12 to 20 years.
What is the best time of year to buy appliances? ›The Best Times to Buy Appliances
September to December: That's because the newer models are coming out around this time. Since retailers need to make room for them, you'll generally be able to buy older models at lower prices.
The answer is, it's up to you. Replacing some or all of your kitchen appliances isn't mandatory. For example, you may want to save your refrigerator or dishwasher. That's completely doable.
Why is it important to diagnose the faults of an appliance first before troubleshooting or repairing? ›
Understanding the Fault
Once you know its proper function, you can find out which part of the fixture isn't working properly or causing a disruption in its normal function. Basically, you need to determine what the proper operation is, and which function of the operation isn't working the way it should.
- Gather information. ...
- Understand the malfunction. ...
- Identify which parameters need to be evaluated. ...
- Identify the source of the problem. ...
- Correct/repair the component. ...
- Verify the repair. ...
- Perform root cause analysis.
- Information Gathering.
- Analysis and Planning.
- Implementation of a solution.
- Assessment of the effectiveness of the solution.
- Documentation of the incident.
Troubleshooting is the process of systematically identifying and solving equipment failures to bring the equipment back into working condition.
What is the number one reason for refrigerator failure? ›The three most common reasons for failures that we see as a result of wear & tear are a mechanically locked compressor, failure of the fan motor, and dirty condenser coils. The refrigerator's compressor is the heart of the cooling system; without a working compressor the refrigerator cannot function.
What is the most common cause of refrigerator compressor failure? ›Too Much or Too Little Load. A low load on the refrigerator's evaporator and a heavier load in the refrigerating chamber can both lead to issues with the compressor. Running an empty fridge for a longer period of time and having a lot of ice in the freezer chamber are oftentimes to blame.
What are common problems with refrigerators not cooling? ›There are several causes for a refrigerator that doesn't cool, including dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation, improper installation, faulty or dirty gasket seals, unorganized food storage, appliance location and malfunctioning internal parts.
Why replace washer hoses every 5 years? ›Regardless of their condition, washing machine hoses should be replaced about every 5 years to prevent a flooding emergency. Standard washing machine hoses are made of black rubber. Unfortunately, these hoses only last a few years and will eventually fail, causing one big mess and costly water damage.
Should you replace hoses with a new washer? ›Signs Washing Machine Hose Replacement is Needed
If your washing machine hose is more than five years old and you have not replaced it yet, it is recommended that you do so. The lifespan of a washing machine hose can depend on the quality of the hose and how often it is used.
The general rule of thumb is to replace all your supply line hoses every 5 years as a preventative measure to protect your home against any potential leaks. But since braided supply lines have a rubber core, we recommend that they can be replaced every 10 years.
Is it bad to leave the house with the washing machine on? ›
Government fire safety advice is to not to leave white goods running unattended. This doesn't mean you have to pull up a chair and watch, but just make sure someone is in the house to hear any smoke alarms go off or smell any burning.
What time of day is cheapest to use washing machine? ›Cheapest time to run washing machine falls within 7 hour window, says expert. Putting a wash on early in the morning can cut costs.
Should you leave room in a washing machine? ›The drum should be filled so that you can fit your hand in at the top and then be able to turn your hand 90°. It's best to leave some room for clothes to move; the agitation caused by the different clothes rubbing against each other is part of the washing process.
What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine? ›Washing machine agitator
Unfortunately, Fixr notes that the agitator is the most expensive part to repair in a washing machine, with an expected cost of at least $575 for parts and labor. This means that a broken washing machine agitator might be a sign that it's time to replace the entire washing machine.
When to call in a professional. Unless you really know what you're doing, you'll want to call out a professional if you have got an integrated washing machine, as the steps to installing integrated washing machines are more complex than for freestanding machines.
Is it worth replacing drum bearings on washing machine? ›Yes, but not for long. Faulty bearings won't affect the competence of your washer, but they can damage other parts of your appliance like the basket, shaft, outer drum, and some electrical components. Over time, bad bearings can cause the demise of your washing machine.
Is it worth fixing a 5 year old washing machine? ›A five- or seven-year-old washing machine with five years of life left in it should possibly be repaired. On the other hand, a 14-year old machine with about six years left is likely to lead to more frequent breakdowns and requirements for maintenance and these can add up.
What is the average life of a washing machine? ›The average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance. So, while you are on the hunt for your new washing machine, you won't have to wonder “how long should a washing machine last” anymore.
Is it cheaper to buy a washer and dryer together or separately? ›In addition, if you want machines that have smart features or a stackable design, it's better to buy a washer and dryer together to ensure the right fit and make use of amenities like dryer syncing. Most retailers will offer deals on washer and dryer sets, so it can be cheaper to buy a washer and dryer together.
Why do 1970s refrigerators last so long? ›Older Appliances Were Designed to Last
The parts were simple and easy to fix, so people could keep their appliances running for much longer than they can today. Unlike modern appliances, which have complex electronics and computerized components that can be expensive to repair or replace.
Can a fridge last 40 years? ›
A refrigerator can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The older your unit is, the more it may cost to repair it. Eventually the cost of repairs will start to outweigh the cost of a replacement.
What is the longest refrigerator lifespan? ›Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that's already on its way out.
Should you repair a 15 year old washer? ›The average life expectancy of a new washing machine is 11 years. Consumer Reports recommends replacing any appliance that's more than eight years old, unless it's a high-end model and has a particular appeal to you. Others suggest replacing any top-loading washer manufactured in 1999 or earlier.
Can a dryer last 20 years? ›The average age of a dryer is eight to ten years by most manufacturers which is quite disappointing if you have one like I do that is over twenty years old. A brand I like in particular is Speed Queen because their products are made like the older versions that can last 20-25 years.
Is it better to buy washer and dryer together? ›Should I replace both appliances at the same time? “It does make sense aesthetically, and perhaps for performance matching,” says Andrea. But, she adds, it generally isn't necessary, unless you have stacked appliances and can't find a new washer or stacking kit that will fit. Dryers often outlast washers.
Is it worth it to repair an appliance? ›A good rule of thumb is if the repair costs less than 50% of the cost of a replacement, go with the repair. Any price tag above that and you're better off buying a new appliance. So, for example, if you bought a $1,500 refrigerator and the repair will cost you $300, go ahead and get the repair.
Is it worth it to repair a 7 year old washer? ›A five- or seven-year-old washing machine with five years of life left in it should possibly be repaired. On the other hand, a 14-year old machine with about six years left is likely to lead to more frequent breakdowns and requirements for maintenance and these can add up.
What is the average lifespan of household appliances? ›What's the Average Lifespan of Common Household Appliances? Most major appliances usually last between eight and 15 years. This average time frame can help you determine when to replace an appliance, but you can often repair older appliances to make them last longer.
Is a 10 year old refrigerator worth fixing? ›As you may find when using the tool, it often makes economic sense to repair a refrigerator, even as far as 10 years into ownership. The only exceptions are budget top-freezers and side-by-sides. For a top-freezer that costs less than $800, you'll want to consider replacing it if it's 8 years old or older.
Who is responsible for a faulty appliance? ›The manufacturer is responsible for the quality, or lack of quality of the appliances it makes. But consumer law puts the onus on the people who sold you the appliance.
What appliances have the most repairs? ›
- Refrigerator Repair.
- Dishwasher Repair.
- Washing Machine.
- Clothes Dryer Repair.
- Stove & Oven.
- Range Hood.
- Microwave Oven.
- Appliance Installation.
- Why repair an appliance at all? ...
- Compressor for the air conditioner. ...
- Clothes dryer motor unit. ...
- Freezer compressor. ...
- Dishwasher motor. ...
- Oven door. ...
- Washing machine agitator. ...
- Furnace heat exchanger.
Washing Machine Lifespan
The average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance.
That being said, it's still possible to find good washing machines that have been built to manage thousands of loads – which, depending on usage levels, can last as long as 20 or 30 years. But today's cheaper models can often only manage hundreds of loads before buckling under the pressure.
Should I repair a 13 year old washing machine? ›If your machine is approaching its maximum life expectancy, it may be time to replace it. Dryers, fridges, and electric ranges should last for approximately 13 years. Washers can be expected to function well for a decade, and dishwashers and microwaves have a lifespan of about nine years.
What brand of appliances last the longest? ›- Whirlpool.
- Maytag.
- KitchenAid.
Of the major appliances in a home, gas ranges have the longest life expectancy: 15 years. Dryers and refrigerators last about 13 years. Some of the appliances with the shortest lifespan are: compactors (6 years), dishwashers (9 years) and microwave ovens (9 years).
Will a refrigerator last 20 years? ›Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that's already on its way out.
What brand of refrigerator has the least problems? ›In terms of predicted reliability, the best built-in brands are Bosch and Thermador. They're the only brands to earn an excellent rating. They also received a very good owner satisfaction rating.
Can a refrigerator last 30 years? ›Estimates of the life cycle of kitchen appliances vary. For example, refrigerators can last anywhere from 14 to 27 years, according to Phoebe Knight of It is Fixed Appliance Repair in Sandy Springs, GA. Freezers tend to last for a little less long, from 12 to 20 years.
Why did old refrigerators last so long? ›
Older Appliances Were Designed to Last
The parts were simple and easy to fix, so people could keep their appliances running for much longer than they can today. Unlike modern appliances, which have complex electronics and computerized components that can be expensive to repair or replace.