How Texas Heat Affects Your Appliances (and What You Can Do About It)

Texas heat doesn’t just wear you down—it wears out your appliances. Here’s how to protect your home and keep things cool when the temperature climbs.

Summertime in Texas is dreadfully hot, isn’t it?
As anyone who has heard of or has been living in the state knows by now, Texas summers are not to be trifled with - blistering heat across the entire state, some areas getting so humid that your sweat doesn’t even do anything to cool you down, and a desperate need for something to stay cool. However, what people will sometimes forget to consider is how this affects their appliances at home. What about that amazing HVAC unit that keeps your house nice and cool as a bastion against the burning sun? What about your refrigerator and freezer, keeping food from spoiling in the oppressive heat? Even your home itself is hit, with things like energy bills coming in hard during the summer - and the power grid has to try to keep up while suffering the same temperatures. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what you can expect from your home during the summertime, how the house and appliances are affected, and what you can do to avoid some of the biggest issues when the temperatures are high.

Power Grid and Demand

Courtesy of F. Muhammad

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of individual appliances, let’s do a quick overview of something important: The power grid. Now, Texas has been experiencing extreme heat since time immemorial, so they’ve gotten pretty good at building a grid that can stand up to the demand, even during the summer - but it isn’t infallible. What you have to remember is that, during the summer, everyone with some sense is going to be seeking out refuge from the heat. This means higher demand from every household running their HVAC units at full blast. This demand turns into stress on the power grid, and makes risks of failures and outages higher. Substations trip safeties, transformers blow, and next thing you know, you’re trying to buy a bag of ice to keep your freezer cool while waiting on the electric company to come out and fix it. Throughout the rest of this article, alongside our advice to keep things running, we’re going to cover ways to reduce your power demand at home - not just for your bill, but also to help reduce that stress on the grid just a little, so you’re not left stranded with no power during a triple-digit day.

HVAC and Air Conditioning

First up, the all-too-important HVAC unit. Your air conditioner is going to be doing a lot of work during the summer, and that’s going to have it under some stress. The main problem areas for air conditioners come from overheating, demanding lower temperatures than it can manage, age of the unit, or poor upkeep on regular maintenance items. Let’s tackle these in order, shall we?

- Overheating - Your air conditioner cools things by transferring heat out of the system with a refrigerant, cooling down the air that it sends into your house, and letting the warm refrigerant flow through a heat exchanger to dump the excess heat outside. Because some part of your HVAC unit is always outside, it’s trying to dump that heat into already hot air. So, to fix this: Consider raising the temperature inside a little so it has to move less heat outside, and, if you have a window unit, try to put it in a window where it will be satisfying the most need while being exposed to the sun the least. If the window has shade, put the A/C there to help it do its job!

Courtesy of jose-andres-pacheco-cortes

- Demanding lower temperatures - An A/C unit can only do so much when it’s hot outside. Sometimes, if you set the temperature on your air conditioning too low, all you end up doing is giving it an impossible task, and it struggles to keep up. This can wear down your unit, causing damage from overworking it. Sadly, the only real way to prevent this issue is to turn it up to somewhere it can manage without having to run every single hour of the day.

- Age of the unit - Just like all appliances, your air conditioner won’t work as well when it’s several years old. Generally, if your A/C unit is ten years or older, you may have to go into the market for a new one.

- Poor upkeep - Alright, no judgement here, when was the last time you checked the air filter on your A/C? Be honest with yourself. Small maintenance items mentioned in the user manual are important to keep the A/C from getting damaged. Give it a once over, check things like the filters and any exposed hoses or lines, to make sure it’s all in good working order before it decides to let you know in a more catastrophic way. This will also make it run more efficiently, driving down your energy bills!

Refrigerator and Freezer

Next up, we’re gonna tackle the refrigerator and freezer together, since their issues and methods of care are pretty similar. Fact of the matter is, keeping cold things cold is more important during the summer than any other time of the year - no one likes to come home to all their food spoiled. So, we’ve got some bits of advice to help you keep these appliances in good working order during the summertime!

- Keep it clean - Keeping your refrigerator and freezer free of excess debris, and keeping the seals clean - as well as the area around them - lets them more easily keep cold air sealed in and transfer hot air off the condenser. Give the area a good cleaning to make sure they can breathe right!

- Check for icing - This may seem counterintuitive, but if there’s ice buildup in or on your refrigerator or freezer, make sure to clear it out! Ice buildup can cause component issues, highlight areas of poor airflow, or indicate an existing problem with moisture buildup in the unit. Make sure to check for ice, clear it out when you see it, and note it down in case it’s a recurring problem - you may need to give an appliance repair call to diagnose the real issue.

- Check for even cooling - If you’ve got a spot in your fridge or freezer that seems to be warmer or colder than the rest, get a hold of an appliance tech. Uneven cooling can indicate a host of issues, from poor seals, all the way up to blockages in the cooling system. These things can be a serious problem for your appliance when it’s already working overdrive in the summer.

- Only open when you need - This one may seem obvious, but make sure you’re only opening your fridge and freezer when you need to, and don’t leave them open too long. Letting hot air in makes your appliance work even harder to stay cool, and worse yet, it lets in moisture that causes the icing issues talked about above. Only when you need, only as long as you need, and it’ll help it to work a lot better!

So, there are our tips for keeping your home and appliances in good working order this summer, especially the important ones that keep things cool against the hot Texas sun. Summertime is always rough on the house, but hopefully, you can keep it from being any worse than it needs to be by taking good care of things at home. If you have any issues with your appliances, our skilled technicians can come over and take a look to keep them running and keep the sweat off your brow!

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How to Protect Your Appliances from Summer Heat and High Energy Bills

Home appliances struggle during summer’s worst heat. These strategies will help you stay ahead of breakdowns and bills.

Summer heat takes a toll on all of us. We slow down, crank up the AC, reach for something cold—and try not to cook unless absolutely necessary. But while we’re finding ways to stay cool, our appliances? They’re quietly doing a whole lot more.

Your fridge is working harder to keep things cold. The dishwasher is running constantly because everyone’s home (and somehow always eating). Even your dryer and washing machine are pulling double duty with all the extra towels and clothes from beach trips and backyard fun.

It adds up fast. And if you're not paying attention, all that effort can wear your appliances down. The good news is you don’t need a total overhaul—just some smart, seasonal upkeep.

Let’s go room by room and break down how to keep your appliances running smooth, even when the temps keep climbing.

Air Conditioners: The Summer MVP That Needs a Break

No surprise here—your air conditioner is the hardest-working appliance in the house during summer. It's not just cooling your space; it's also pulling humidity from the air, which makes everything feel stickier and harder to manage. That double workload? It can wear your system out fast.

Here’s what helps:

Clean or replace the filters every month if you're running it daily.
Keep the outdoor unit free of weeds, leaves, and dust. It needs breathing room.

Schedule a quick checkup before the heat really kicks in. A pro can spot refrigerant leaks, clogged coils, or wiring issues before they become breakdowns.

Consider a dehumidifier if your AC can’t keep up with the moisture. It'll lighten the load and help your space feel more comfortable.

And if you haven’t already switched to a programmable thermostat, now’s a good time. Setting your AC a little higher when you're not home can make a big difference in both energy use and wear and tear.

Refrigerators & Freezers: Cold Storage, Hot Problems

Your fridge doesn’t get a break. It runs all day, every day—and in summer, it's fighting against heat, humidity, and more frequent door opens (because cold drinks, obviously). That means the compressor and fans are working overtime.

A few small tweaks go a long way:

Keep the fridge set to 37-40°F, and the freezer at 0°F.

Don’t pack it to the brim—air needs to move to keep things cool.

Clean the coils every couple months. Dust makes it work harder.

Check the seals. A loose gasket lets cold air slip out and makes the motor run constantly.

Also, try not to shove the fridge against the wall. It needs space to vent heat from the back. And if you store a second fridge in a hot garage, make sure it’s got plenty of airflow or consider moving it to a cooler spot.

Washing Machines: More Laundry, More Stress

Summer means sweat, swimsuits, towels, dirt—and lots of laundry. Your washer isn’t getting any rest, especially if your household is growing with guests or kids home for break.

To keep it from burning out:

Avoid overloading it. Smaller, balanced loads are easier on the drum.

Use the right amount of detergent. Too much can cause buildup and strain the system.

Leave the door open after a wash to let moisture dry out (mold loves damp spaces).

Wipe down the drum and gasket regularly.

Check the hoses every now and then for cracks or leaks.

If your washer has a cleaning cycle, use it monthly. If not, run a hot cycle with white vinegar to keep things fresh and clear.

Dryers: A Hidden Fire Risk in the Heat

You might not think about it, but dryers are a big fire risk—especially in summer. Heat plus lint plus long drying cycles is a risky combination.

Here’s what you can do:

Clean the lint trap every time you run a load.

Wash the screen with soap and water once a month to remove film.

Check the vent hose and clean it out at least once a year.

Don’t overstuff the dryer—it takes longer to dry, and it wears out the motor.

Courtesy of Miele

If the weather’s nice, hang-dry towels and heavier items outside. Your dryer (and your electric bill) will thank you.

Also, keep an eye (and ear) out for any odd noises or longer-than-usual dry times. That’s often the first sign something’s clogging up the works.

Dishwashers: They Work Harder Than You Think

Between cookouts, houseguests, and just eating at home more often, your dishwasher has a busy summer. If it’s not maintained properly, it won’t clean as well—or worse, it might leak or break down completely.

To keep it running smoothly:

Don’t overload it. Water and detergent need space to move.

Clean the filter regularly (if it’s removable, pull it out and rinse).

Wipe down the gaskets and door edges where grime builds up.

Rinse or scrape food chunks off plates before loading.

Run a cleaning cycle once a month, or run it empty with a bowl of vinegar on the top rack.

If you live in an area with hard water, use a rinse aid or softener. Mineral deposits can clog up spray arms fast.

Water Heaters: Easy to Ignore, But Still Working

It might not seem like your water heater is doing much in the summer, especially if you’re leaning into quick, cool showers. But don’t forget—if your household grows during summer, or you're doing lots of laundry and dishes, the demand spikes.

Some quick ways to reduce strain:

Set the temp to 120°F. It’s hot enough for comfort, but safer and more efficient.

If you have a tank heater, flush it yearly to get rid of sediment.

Check for any rust or dripping around the base. Early signs of trouble.

Lowering the temp a few degrees can save you a surprising amount on your energy bill. And if you’re planning to leave town, turn it to vacation mode.

Stoves & Ovens: Summer's Not the Time to Bake

We get it—sometimes a casserole just sounds good. But using your oven in the heat of summer? It warms up your kitchen, which makes your AC work harder, and can shorten the life of your stove.

Smarter alternatives:

Cook in the morning or late evening when it’s cooler.

Use smaller appliances like air fryers or toaster ovens when possible.

Keep burners and drip pans clean to avoid fire hazards.

Check gas connections for wear if you’re using a gas range.

And when spills happen inside the oven? Clean them right away. Baked-on grime can smoke up fast.

Ice Makers & Grills: Small Appliances, Big Impact

Your ice maker might be working harder than any other appliance and getting the least attention. Give it a little love:

Change the water filter every six months.

Clean the bin, the lines, and the interior according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Watch for leaks or buildup.

If you're using a grill often:

Scrub the grates after every use.

Empty the grease tray to avoid flare-ups.

Courtesy of Weber

Check the burners and fuel lines, especially on gas grills.

A well-maintained grill not only lasts longer but cooks more evenly, which means better burgers.

Power Surges, Overloads & Smart Habits

Summer storms and overloaded outlets can knock out your appliances in a flash. Surge protectors are a must, especially for big-ticket items like your fridge or AC unit.

Unplug what you can when not in use. That includes toasters, gaming systems, chargers—anything with a standby light. It’s not just safer, it saves you on "phantom" electricity usage.

And if your breakers trip often? Call an electrician. It might be time to upgrade your panel or rework your wiring.

Long-Term Wins: Energy Efficiency & Smart Techpix

If your appliances are aging or you’re planning upgrades, consider ENERGY STAR models. They use less energy, reduce strain on your home systems, and often come with rebates.

Even better? Many smart appliances now monitor their own health. Some can alert you if the fridge is too warm, or if your washer detects a leak.

They cost more up front, but they often pay for themselves in energy savings and peace of mind.

You don’t have to overhaul your whole house to stay cool and avoid surprise repairs. Just pay attention to the everyday appliances that keep your home running. A quick clean, a new filter, or a small adjustment now can save you from a big headache later.

Need a hand keeping your appliances in peak condition this summer? At Appliance Rescue Service, our expert technicians are here to help you stay ahead of costly breakdowns. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a repair that just can’t wait, we’ll make sure your appliances keep up with the season—so your home stays comfortable, efficient, and worry-free. Reach out anytime—we're just a call away.

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Vacation Ready: The Household Items You Should Always Unplug

Unplugging isn’t just busywork. Here’s what to unplug, what to leave in, and the real reasons why.

You’ve got your bags packed, your out-of-office email turned on, and the pet sitter all squared away. But just before you head out the door, here’s a question worth asking: what’s still plugged in around your house?

Unplugging appliances before vacation might feel like one of those optional chores you can skip. And hey, most of the time, you’d be right. Most folks leave home without unplugging a thing and return to find everything just as they left it. But if taking five extra minutes to unplug a few key items can save you from a fire, a fried device, or an inflated electric bill—why not?

Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you figure out what can stay in, what should come out, and why it matters.

In the Kitchen

Let’s start with the most appliance-packed room in the house.

Countertop appliances like toasters, air fryers, electric kettles, coffee makers, and microwaves should be unplugged before you leave. Not only do many of these have heating elements that could pose a risk if there’s a malfunction, but they also use standby power even when they’re off. That little clock on your microwave? Yep, it’s still sipping electricity. And anything with grease buildup or crumbs sitting near a heat source is one power surge away from becoming a hazard.

Now, your refrigerator should stay plugged in unless you’re planning to be away for more than a month and have time to empty and clean it out. For shorter trips, just make sure it’s at least half full (water jugs work in a pinch) so it doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool.

Living Room + Office Area

Entertainment centers are sneaky energy vampires. Your TV, streaming box, game consoles, and even cable boxes all draw power even when they’re powered off. And while the cost adds up over time, the bigger concern here is protecting your pricey electronics from power surges while you're not around. Lightning strikes or grid fluctuations can do a real number on your home theater setup if it’s still connected.

Before heading out, unplug everything you can in this area. If they’re all on one power strip, even better—just flip the switch.

Same goes for computers and accessories. Unplug desktops, laptops, printers, and anything else with a battery or sensitive circuit board. If you’re someone who’s got backups running, make sure they’re finished, then go ahead and unplug.

Courtesy of Brayear Rodriguez.

And if you’re still on the fence? Just imagine returning from a relaxing trip to find your hard drive fried by a surge. That mental image is usually enough motivation to reach for the plug.

Bedroom + Bathroom

Here’s where some of the most common fire hazards live: hair styling tools. Whether it’s a curling iron, flat iron, or hair dryer, these should always be unplugged when not in use—and especially before a trip. A single damaged wire or faulty switch can lead to smoldering parts even when the device is off.

Battery chargers, especially for lithium-ion devices (think: cordless vacuums, electric toothbrushes, camera batteries), should also be removed from outlets. These can pose a fire risk if left charging for too long or if they’re damaged in any way. One of the most frequent causes of battery-related fires is unattended overcharging, so err on the safe side.

Nightstand lamps and alarm clocks? Up to you. They don’t pose a major risk, but unplugging them can still reduce phantom energy use.

Utility Room or Laundry Area

This one surprises people: your washer and dryer should be unplugged too. Dryers, in particular, are one of the leading sources of appliance-related fires. If you're leaving for more than a few days, it’s worth the extra 30 seconds to reach behind and unplug them. Lint buildup inside dryers is no joke—combine that with a random power surge and things can go downhill fast.

Courtesy of planetcar

And if you really want to go the extra mile, you can even turn off the water supply to the washer. It’s not a bad habit—especially if your washer hoses are older or you’ve had a leak before. A cracked hose while you're out of town can go from minor annoyance to major water damage in no time.

Water heater? No need to unplug entirely. Most modern models have a "vacation" or "low" setting, which keeps them operating efficiently without turning them off altogether.

The Essentials to Leave Plugged In

Not everything should be unplugged. Your refrigerator (as mentioned) stays. So do your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any home security systems. If you use smart home features like thermostats, lights, or cameras, your Wi-Fi router and modem also need to stay powered on. That connectivity can make all the difference if something goes wrong and you need a heads-up. Plus, if your router's online, it's one way to verify whether your home's still got power at all.

If you have a sump pump or a radon abatement system, those are non-negotiable. They need to stay running while you're away, period.

Bonus Tip: Skip the Breaker Panel

courtesy of Harry Strauss.jpg

Some people prefer to flip circuit breakers instead of unplugging items room by room, but this comes with risks. Unless you’re absolutely sure what’s on each circuit, you could end up turning off something essential, like your fridge or sump pump. Plenty of breaker panels are mislabeled or include hidden connections you’d never guess. Better to be precise than sorry.

At the end of the day, unplugging before vacation is about prevention, not paranoia. Your home likely won’t burst into flames because you left your toaster plugged in—but why take the chance? Plus, it’s a small step that saves energy, protects your electronics, and gives you a little extra peace of mind while you’re away.

And once you’re home again, plugging everything back in will feel like a gentle re-entry. Welcome back!

If something doesn’t power on quite the way it used to—or worse, if you return to an appliance that’s acting up—our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. From troubleshooting strange behavior to handling post-vacation surprises, we’re just a call away. Safe travels, and know we’ve got your back when you get home. 

A Trusted Label in Jeopardy: The Fight to Save Energy Star

This simple, voluntary label has helped millions—so why is it on the chopping block?

If you’ve ever shopped for a new fridge, dishwasher, or even a box of lightbulbs, you’ve probably seen that familiar little blue label: Energy Star. Quietly tucked into the corners of packaging and stats pages, it's a beacon. It has been helping people make smarter energy choices since the early ’90s. No pressure, no mandates—just a gentle nudge toward products that use less power and save you money.

Now, after over 30 years of proven impact, that helpful label is in danger of disappearing.

The Energy Star program is facing a growing push for elimination. It is part of a broader shift in federal climate and energy policy under the current Administration. While  hasn’t been officially ended—yet— the warning signs are blinking. If it goes, the effects will ripple through households, businesses, and even local building codes.

So how did we get here? What did Energy Star actually do? And what happens if it’s gone?

Let’s break it down.

Why Was the Energy Star Program Started?

The Energy Star program launched in 1992, born out of a simple but powerful idea: what if the federal government made it easier for people to choose appliances and electronics that used less energy?

It was started under President George H. W. Bush as a collaborative effort between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and later, the Department of Energy. At its core, the program was designed to test, certify, and label products that met high standards for energy efficiency. Products that earned the Energy Star label had to pass third-party certification and ongoing post-market testing to make sure they truly delivered on their promises.

But Energy Star didn’t stop at appliances. Over the years, the label expanded to cover homes, commercial buildings, and industrial plants. The program even helped shape local building codes and tax incentives—making energy efficiency not just an individual choice, but a widespread cultural standard.

And perhaps most importantly: participation in the program was always voluntary. Manufacturers could opt in. Consumers could decide whether or not to buy Energy Star–certified products. The only requirement? Perform well enough to earn the label.

The Energy Star program has long been one of the federal government’s most popular and effective voluntary initiatives. 

What Did the Energy Star Program Achieve?

The results speak for themselves. According to the EPA’s 2024 report, Energy Star has helped Americans save more than five trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity since it began. That’s the equivalent of preventing four billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions—an environmental impact hard to ignore.

But the program’s benefits weren’t just green; they were financial, too. A typical household saves about $450 a year on energy costs simply by choosing Energy Star–labeled appliances. Every year, more than $100 billion worth of certified products are sold. And for every dollar the EPA spent on the program, it spurred $230 in private investment in energy-saving infrastructure and services.

With over 89% of American households recognizing the label, Energy Star became one of the most trusted symbols on store shelves. It helped level the playing field for consumers trying to make better choices—and gave manufacturers a reason to push for more efficient design.

In the words of the EPA, it’s “one of the most successful voluntary U.S. government programs in history.”

Has the Energy Star Program Actually Been Ended?

Not yet—but it’s under real threat.

In April 2024, media reports began circulating that the EPA, now under the second Trump administration, planned to dismantle the Energy Star program. This sparked swift backlash. Over 1,000 companies and organizations signed a letter urging the agency to keep the program, citing its effectiveness, affordability, and popularity.

Lawmakers from both parties have also weighed in. A group of 22 senators, including Bernie Sanders, Amy Klobuchar, and John Fetterman, sent a May 20 letter stating that the program is protected under the Energy Policy Act of 2005—meaning it cannot be legally shut down without Congressional approval.

So, no—the program hasn’t officially been ended. But behind the scenes, the groundwork for its elimination is being laid.

Why Is the Energy Star Program Under Threat?

According to statements from inside the EPA, programs like Energy Star are being “de-prioritized and eliminated” as part of a broader rollback of federal climate protections. That includes executive orders discouraging wind energy expansion, lawsuits aimed at state-level climate initiatives, and a general focus on fossil fuel development over emissions reductions.

In this political climate, even programs that align with cost-saving goals and industry support are on the chopping block.

Critics of the move—ranging from bipartisan lawmakers to energy nonprofits—point out that scrapping Energy Star makes little fiscal sense. The program costs only $32 million a year to run but saves more than $40 billion annually in consumer energy bills.

If the concern is government overreach, it’s worth remembering: Energy Star is voluntary. No one is forced to participate. It simply makes energy-efficient choices easier and more visible.

So why is it being targeted? The answer may be less about the program itself and more about an overarching strategy to dismantle anything linked to climate policy—regardless of its popularity or effectiveness.

What Are We Going to Do Now?

If Energy Star disappears, there will be ripple effects.

Consumers will lose a reliable, trusted label that helps them make informed purchases. Manufacturers will face a confusing patchwork of state-level standards. And utilities, cities, and green building initiatives will lose a central benchmark they’ve built policy around.

There are other certifications—LEED for buildings, or product specs from the Consortium for Energy Efficiency—but none are as widespread or federally backed. Most importantly, none are as easy for everyday people to recognize and trust.

Energy experts say it’s likely some form of replacement will emerge—but it may take time. And it probably won’t have the same national reach or impact.

If you care about saving money, reducing waste, or simply being able to find reliable information about what your appliances are doing behind the scenes, this is a moment to pay attention.

Whether or not you’ve ever paused to notice that little blue label on your washing machine or lightbulbs, chances are it’s already saved you money. Energy Star has quietly made American homes more efficient for decades—without fanfare, mandates, or complicated rules.

Losing it would mean more than just one less logo. It would mark the loss of a smart, simple system that worked.

Let’s hope it’s not too late to keep the lights on.

If you'd like to arrange an appointment with us, you can reach out via our contact page or by giving us a call. Appliance Rescue Service is always here to keep your home appliances maintained and running smoothly.

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Appliance Red Flags: What Strange Noises, Smells, and Sounds Are Trying to Tell You

A practical homeowner’s guide to what's normal—and what’s not—when it comes to appliance noise.

Let’s be honest—most of us don’t give our appliances much thought until they stop working altogether. But what if they’ve actually been dropping hints all along? Clanks in the laundry room, buzzes in the kitchen, and even subtle hisses can be signs that something’s not quite right.

Think of it as appliance whispering. By learning to listen for what’s normal—and what definitely isn’t—you can stop small issues from snowballing into big, expensive repairs. Below, we break down the sounds and smells your appliances might be using to ask for a little TLC.

Refrigerator Noises

What’s Normal

A well-running fridge doesn’t sound like a library. Expect a low, steady hum as the compressor kicks in, a soft click when the defrost cycle starts, and an occasional gurgle or hiss from the refrigerant doing its job. If your ice maker is active, you’ll also hear periodic buzzing as it fills.

What’s Worrisome

If the usual hum turns into more of a growl, or the buzz starts sounding like a bee on a mission, your fridge could be working overtime. Repeated clicking might mean the defrost system is glitching, and constant gurgling might hint at a refrigerant issue that’s worth watching.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesty USDA.

Hear a grinding sound? That could be ice building up near the evaporator fan. A rattling noise might mean the condenser fan or compressor is loose—or on its way out. And a squeal coming from behind the fridge? That’s your cue to call a technician, stat.

Freezer Noises

What’s Normal

Expect a quiet whir as fans circulate cold air, along with the occasional pop or crack as the interior expands and contracts with temperature changes. Soft hissing or gurgling from the refrigerant is also totally normal.

What’s Worrisome

If your freezer sounds like it’s trying too hard—loud clicking, persistent buzzing, or a whine—something may be stressing the motor or fan. These aren’t full-blown emergencies, but they do deserve a closer look.

What’s a Red Flag

Sharp squealing often means a fan motor is giving out. Grinding could mean something’s stuck or broken inside. And any hissing accompanied by reduced cooling could be a refrigerant leak, which calls for professional help.

Dishwasher

What’s Normal

A working dishwasher is a symphony of soft, productive sounds: gentle swishing of water, light clicks as it changes cycles, and a low hum when it drains.

What’s Worrisome

If you hear a grinding or deep humming, it may be debris stuck in the pump—or a pump that’s wearing down. Longer-than-usual cycles can point to a clogged filter or a sensor that's struggling to do its job.

What’s a Red Flag

Pooling water on your floor is never a good sign. Neither is a burning smell, loud clanging, or the kind of rattle that makes you step back mid-load. If your dishes are still dirty after a cycle, that’s another signal your dishwasher is due for a checkup.

Oven / Stove / Range

What’s Normal

Clicking as your gas burner lights is perfectly expected. So is a quiet fan hum during and after cooking—especially with newer convection ovens.

What’s Worrisome

When that clicking doesn’t stop, it’s time to investigate. The igniter may be failing or the burner could be dirty. And if your food is suddenly cooking unevenly, your heating element might be the culprit.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of RDNE Stock project

If you smell gas but nothing’s turned on, stop reading and turn off the main gas valve. Then call your gas company. Other big warnings: buzzing noises, burning smells, or a door that won’t close properly (especially if your oven seems to be struggling to stay hot).

Washing Machine

What’s Normal

Expect a lot of sloshing, a few clicks, and maybe a light thump if the load is slightly off-balance. The hum of the motor and a gurgle as the machine drains are all standard fare.

What’s Worrisome

A loud thump that doesn’t stop could mean a suspension rod is worn out. Grinding might mean something’s stuck between the tubs. And a hissing sound could indicate a leaky water hose.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of stevepb

If your washer is screeching, vibrating violently, or leaking, don’t press your luck. Shut it off and take a closer look—or better yet, call someone who can.

Dryer

What’s Normal

You’ll hear a steady whir as the drum turns, a few clicks as the timer advances, and maybe a soft thud when zippers or buttons hit the inside.

What’s Worrisome

If it’s taking multiple cycles to dry your clothes, you might be dealing with a clogged vent or a failing heating element. A new rattle could mean a belt is wearing out or something’s loose inside.

What’s a Red Flag

Courtesy of Planet care

Any kind of burning smell or overheating sensation should be treated seriously—it could be a lint blockage or faulty coil, and that’s a fire risk. If your clothes are coming out scorched, shut it down and unplug it.

The truth is, your appliances are always talking to you. The question is—are you listening? Whether it’s a squeak, a buzz, or a thud, unusual sounds and smells are often your first clue that something’s not quite right. Catching these red flags early means fewer breakdowns, lower repair costs, and way less stress.

And when things go from “huh, that’s weird” to “okay, that’s bad,” Appliance Rescue Service is just a call away. Our expert team can diagnose the issue, make the fix, and get your home back to humming (the normal kind).

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Call:  (214) 599-0055