Why Can't I get a Quote with an Error Code?

Newer machines have been taking advantage of the fact that their computer boards are more complex and manufacturers have been including error codes that are designed to help consumers fix small issues and technicians to pinpoint damaged parts or connections.  The problem comes when individuals without technical training attempt to diagnose broken parts and get quotes for repairs based on nothing but the error code.

Error codes are also called Fault codes and they can offer input into things such as the fact that your machine stopped because it was unbalanced, or because there are too many suds in the machine, or that the drain is not working.

With the final issue, this tends to be mistaken as an indicator that the drain pump is damaged and needs replacing.  While this is possibly the issue it is far more likely that the drain line is blocked or the drain pump has something stuck in it and it just needs cleaning, it is even possible that contacts between wires has faded and they just need to be redone.

While the internet is a great resource for information in general, looking up an error code and asking a technician to replace that part can be a huge waste of money as you may not need it replaced at all. Always arrange for an appointment to have a technician do a diagnosis in person; it is the only way you can be sure you are getting the repairs that you need done.

Filters: Why You Need to Change Them

Filters are a component of a lot of different appliances that don't get changed or cleaned anywhere near as often as they should.  From filters in your Central Vacuum or over the range microwave to the ones in your Furnace, these appliances are often tucked out of sight and you likely don't think about what is accumulating on them very often.

You should be changing, or cleaning if they are sturdy enough, your filters every 6 months if not more often. If you own any pets with feathers or fur you should be changing every 3 months; you may want to try to find a reusable filter that you can vacuum and wash to make things a bit easier but even that will require replacing with time. Be cautious with this style of filter after washing; they will need to be dried properly to ensure no mold has a chance to grow on them.

No matter what type of appliance the filter protects: If the filter is dirty it is harder to pull air through it which in turn makes the fan motor work harder to do the same job.  This additional effort will shorten the life span of the motor forcing you to get repairs or replace it much sooner.  Filters will always be cheaper than repairs or buying a new unit so take care of your appliances!  You will save money in the long run.

The Importance of Balanced Appliances

Having all of your appliances properly balanced may solve some problems you have had with your machine and will save on wear and tear if you haven't noticed anything odd yet.  Before checking any of your machines it would be best to first dig out the user manuals to read over the steps on how to balance them and information on any maintenance that should be performed. Finally before doing anything with your machines turn them off and turn off the breakers as well, safety first!


Refrigerators need to be balanced to regulate temperature properly, keep their doors and shelves properly aligned and without stress, and to allow moisture to evaporate properly.  If you are noticing that your doors are not staying closed or small amounts of moisture around your fridge about once a week you may have a balancing issue.  Consult your user manual and adjust the leveling screws until it is even.

Washing Machines move around a lot when they are running a load to clean everything properly.  If the washer is unbalanced you may end up with damage to the drum and possibly even to your home if it is very unbalanced.  To balance your washer properly you will need to adjust the leveling screws but first check to ensure that your intake and drain hoses have slack so you can pull the machine out a little, if they have no slack you may damage the hoses and have a much larger problem than you did before. Check your user manual to see how many leveling screws you have and how to adjust them.

Drying Machines move around a lot less than washing machines but you still need to take some care with them, particularly if your dryer is stacked on top of the washer.  It's possible your washer balance problem is being caused by your dryer. If your unit is a combo machine where the dryer is actually part of the washer you will need to balance the whole unit carefully and you may want a friend to help as it will weigh more than a single unit.

Dishwashers can also be imbalanced but you normally won't notice unless you develop a leak. Try to check the cupboards surrounding your dishwasher and the floor near it frequently to ensure there is no water damage.  Some dishwashers should actually be tilted slightly back instead of completely flat and even, consult your user manual for exact measurements and adjust the leveling screws appropriately.

Lost your user manual?  Find your model number and search online for it; ignore sites that ask for payment as you can find nearly any manual with enough searching. If you cannot find it online try calling the manufacturer and see if they can mail or email you a new copy, they will likely charge for this service however.

Maintaining a Ceramic Top Stove

A Ceramic or glass top stove is an excellent modern appliance but there are a few extra tricks to keeping them clean and protecting them from damage than the older style radiant element stoves.

While the perfectly flat surface may be tempting to use as extra counter space by leaving items on top but this can be a bad idea; you might place items on it while the surface is still hot. The surface is rather durable but if it is cracked you will need to replace the entire surface and that part is very expensive even before an appliance technicians labour.  Be cautious with what is placed on the stove and ensure nothing heavy can fall on it; if you have an over the range microwave ensure it is installed properly!

Cleaning can be rather simple as long as you keep a few tips in mind:

• Try to clean spills as soon as they occur and only use damp cloths to prevent anything from melting onto the cooktop.
• Never use abrasive scrubbing pads or you will scratch the surface or leave streaks on it.
• Avoid strong chemical cleaners. A simple paste of warm water and baking soda usually does the trick.
• Aside from wiping up spills; always clean when the surface is cool
• If something is stuck on and just not coming off find a cooktop scraper; several have been designed specifically for ceramic surfaces and can clean without causing damage.

If an element stops working you are going to need an appliance technician to repair it for you; do not try to do it yourself! Electric appliances draw in more power than small appliances and the risk of electrocution will have greater consequences. The cooktop itself is also difficult to work with and should only be done by someone with training on how to remove and reinstall without damage.

Why is my Dryer Taking Hours to dry?

Have you noticed that your dryer doesn't really do the job that it's supposed to do well?  There are several different things to check for before calling up the manufacturer to complain.

Is it getting hot when it runs?  All dryers have a heating element, or igniter system if they are gas, in them and just like stoves and anything else that uses one they are bound to wear out eventually.  Check if your clothes are hot during a normal cycle.  It is not necessarily the heat element causing your dryer to not heat up but it is the usual suspect.

Is the drum turning while it runs?  Dryers need pockets of air to form in between items to dry anything really well.  Your items run the risk of getting scorched if the drum is not turning as well. Fortunately most machines include a safety feature that will not allow the dryer to be run if the drum is not sensed to be turning.

When was the last time you had your ducts cleaned?  If this is a new problem that has come up with a machine you've had for years you should be checking your notes for the last time you had the machine and the ducts cleaned.  If there is not enough air flow going through the machine it will not be able to dry anything properly as moisture needs to be wicked outside; typically through a duct system.

What style of dryer do you have?  If you have a new "ductless" condenser dryer the bad news is that while it is wonderfully convenient that you can place it anywhere in your home the lack of a vent does mean longer drying times.  The excess moisture in the air that circulates in the machine passes through a condenser in an attempt to remove a majority of it but each subsequent load will result in a build-up of moisture and a longer wait time.

If the ducts are not at fault and you do not have a condenser dryer you need to call an appliance technician for service.  Dryers, like all appliances, use a high voltage for their power and it can be dangerous to dissemble them without training.  If you are in the Greater Toronto Area SOS Appliance Repair Inc can provide professional service to your dryer and most other household appliances.  Contact us for more information.