Top 9 Appliance Issues to Watch Out for Before Buying a Home

 Avoiding Appliance Surprises: Key Issues to Watch for When Buying a Home

Are you dreaming of homeownership? It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of picking out paint colors and deciding which room will hold your favorite furniture. But before getting too comfortable, it’s important to face a hard truth: those shiny appliances may not be as reliable as they look.

Every home comes with its quirks, and the appliances are no exception. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference in your home-buying experience, and that’s where we come in. With years of experience helping our clients repair both new and new-to-them appliances, we’ve heard our fair share of horror stories. Here’s what you need to know to avoid a few of your own.

One:

Do not exhaust your savings just to get into the house. You'll end up borrowing either money or trouble, and you'll probably borrow both if you panic about it.

Something will always come up. Even if you're buying the well-maintained, paid-off family home from your great granddaddy for the princely sum of a single dollar, something will come up. Sometimes it's paperwork, sometimes it's appliances, sometimes it's an outright disaster.

Possible nightmares:

The assessor will come back with a much higher valuation and your closing costs will skyrocket because you have to front a portion of property taxes. The homeowner's insurance will decline to issue you a policy because you don't have a handrail on your two steps to the front door. The line to the washer will disconnect or rupture spontaneously, and because you haven't moved in yet, the laundry room will flood before anyone finds it. A mouse will get in and eat something critical, frying the brand built-in fridge even though there have never been mice.

It's always something. Probably something ridiculous, at that.

And then, once you've handled that, with homeownership comes... more bills. Expect the bills. Don't drain your savings.

Two:

Every home is different, but all of them have some kind of headache.

As everyone knows, the first home is usually a case of "what can I afford?" rather than "what do I want?" Subsequent homes land somewhere in between those two, usually one step closer to the "wants" side with each purchase.

From our experience, the first home we bought was an absolute dumpster fire. Former rental, pest infestation, broken appliances, damaged floor, rotting subfloor, plumbing problems, leaking roof, busted central air, holes in drywall and interior doors, yard in disarray and full of junk... If you can dream up a problem, we probably faced it with the first house. And we faced it on fumes - the bank account was dry. It took us years, and every spare penny, to make it livable. That first piece of advice we just imparted? Learned that the hard way.

The second home was a family property, a beautiful recent renovation with new-old-stock matching appliances. Stellar, as opposed to the home we moved out of. But it had its own headaches: poor wiring, not grounded, drafty windows, no air conditioning at all, an old well prone to freezing in winter, no access to utilities like home internet. Learning from past mistakes allowed us to hire a pro and knock out the pressing issues much more quickly. This house is the one we consider our permanent residence; we'll return to it eventually. Life has simply necessitated a relocation for now.

The third home was a lesson in problems not readily apparent. It passed inspection with flying colors, but our hurdles there were the kind only revealed after living there for a while. It was a dry climate, but it turned out the storm windows and back door leaked in the event of rain. Previous water damage had been patched, but the underlying problem remained. The fridge squawked and squealed, mostly in the dead of night. The garbage disposal quit almost right away. The central A/C unit needed to be repaired in the first six months, too. The stove never worked quite as expected - slow to preheat, hot spots, cold spots, etc. Even the porches needed work - they had been repaired, but not well. Just another short term, band-aid fix, in a neighborhood full of them. Pretty on the surface quickly became a money pit, and the other houses nearby seemed to use the same low-cost handyman (or at least follow the same philosophy) as the previous owner. Learned from this experience: declining property value is not just a boogeyman. It is real and it can bite you in the behind.

The fourth home? Location, location, location. We have finally learned not to compromise on things like school districts, primary care and hospital access, and accessible recreation. They're not obvious things on the surface, but Lord are they important. This house taught us damage can be fixed, appliances and fixtures and flooring can be replaced, the yard can be modified, but the house is literally not going anywhere else. And with a teenager in the house, keeping the kiddo educated, healthy, and entertained/out of trouble have moved to the uppermost priority slot.

Three:

You may have paid extra for the appliances. That doesn't make them worth anything.

Used appliances are always a lotto situation. Sometimes you hit the jackpot: it's all pretty new, it matches, it's what you would have bought for yourself, it's been maintained well, the previous owner has all the paperwork, the manufacturer warranties are all intact and transferable... It's a unicorn situation, but it could happen.

It usually doesn't.

Go in knowing you might have just paid a premium for something you could find unusable, even if your inspector says it does what it should. Our stove in the third house, for example. We bake A LOT. A slow preheat isn't a problem for people who don't prioritize baking, and since it does heat to temperature, it technically works. (Works like shit, that's for sure.)

We're also really, really choosy about washing machines and dryers. The washer and dryer that came with the fourth house went right out the door on our first day. They worked, but they didn't work up to our standards and had to go to make room for a set that did.

Four:

Cruddy appliances do not warrant pushing for seller concessions.

Do not waste your - or anyone else's - time quibbling about the appliances. The process of asking to adjust the sale price of the house for things like this isn't worth the time or effort, and may end up costing you the house when your offer gets rejected. Negotiating is not exactly appealing when there's someone else willing to pay full asking price. 

Five:

Your inspector is there to help, but is not omnipotent.

S/he cannot tell the future, nor is s/he paid enough or given enough time to catch everything. The inspector will walk through and assess things like doors and windows and lights and plumbing, check for mold or pests, and test the appliances if they convey with the house. The report is simply the inspector calling it as it is - here's where you find out one burner on the stove doesn't work, or the shower diverter is jammed. Do not try to push the seller into fixing every little thing. However, big things like mold remediation are sometimes worth fighting over.

The inspection on home four tipped us off to the examples above. We've been here a while now, replaced the jammed diverter on day one and are still using the stove that came with the house. Three burners are enough for now, and there were other priorities (like the washer and dryer).

The inspectors are not to blame for things like appliances kicking the proverbial bucket. They know if it works when they're there. They don't know what's happening a day, a week or a month from now any more than you do. First time home buyers often seem to think the inspector should have a crystal ball or something and warn them the dishwasher will lose the plastic clip on the detergent door next Thursday, or that the built-in microwave will only cook two more bags of popcorn before it gives up the ghost. Give everyone a break. Also, see tip number one again.

Six:

Your appliance preferences and needs are yours - know your situation and adjust priorities accordingly.

We know plenty of people who would have prioritized replacing our apartment-sized fridge over getting a better washer and dryer, and just gone to the laundromat until they could afford the washer and dryer they wanted. This is a valid solution for lots of people. It's not for us.

We do an egregious amount of laundry. We do so much laundry that in a month, the money spent at the laundromat would have bought a nice used washer with a warranty. Also, our trip to the nearest laundromat is much longer than the trip to the grocery store. We decided we could get by with a tiny fridge and freezer by making more frequent grocery trips, and adjusted accordingly. 

Seven:

Assume the previous owner of any used appliance did not know the word "maintenance."

Any one! One that comes with the house, one you found on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, one you bought from the neighbor, one you picked up from a reseller shop... It cannot be stressed enough. Any appliance you buy used will at bare minimum need a scrub before you welcome it into your home.

It is safer to assume the previous owner had many long haired cats, at least one alligator, several unsupervised toddlers and had never heard of Lysol or vacuum cleaners.

Don’t expect it to look like this. This is after HOURS of work.

You will find signs that it's used. Scratches, dents, bite marks, loose alphabet magnets stuck in strange places, fur (oh golly, the fur), dust, dirt, lint, mystery caked-on stains, and other assorted nightmare fuel.

Be ready and willing to put in the work, or be prepared to fork over more cash.

Eight:

Do you see lights out in an appliance? It's telling you something.

If you see an easily replaceable appliance bulb out, say the one in the fridge or under a built-in microwave, that's a good sign the person before you didn't prioritize simple maintenance. They would rather live without it and/or work around it than exert the effort to pick up a bulb at the store and change it out.

Be ready to deep clean these appliances, and be on the lookout for more overlooked simple maintenance projects elsewhere in the house. Check to see if there's lint trapped in the dryer or dryer vent hose - another five minute project, but one that may prevent a serious fire hazard. Check your water valves under sinks, behind fridges and washers, and behind toilets; turn them on/off a time or two annually to prevent them from locking up (but only do this when you have a hardware store open or a replacement on hand in case it's already seized by scale or defective). Check the smoke/CO2 alarms and make sure they have batteries and function. Clean the filters in the vent fan over the stove and in the dishwasher. Check HVAC filters and be ready to replace them all.

Nine:

Homeowners insurance doesn't specifically cover your appliances.

The vast majority of homeowners policies consider your appliances just another thing under the personal property category. If one or more kick the bucket on you, your policy won't do much about it. However, if they're stolen or damaged by a storm, your policy may pay to replace them. Read your policy, and if you struggle to understand it, make sure you ask questions of your insurer. There are other warranties and insurance policies you can explore if you are interested in appliance breakdown coverage.

Shopping for a new home is full of surprises, and the appliances that come with it can often be one of the biggest unknowns. But with a little preparation and the right support, you can handle whatever comes your way. At Appliance Rescue Service, we’re here to help when those unexpected appliance issues arise. Our experienced technicians are just a call away, ready to ensure your new home remains as comfortable and functional as you dreamed. Don’t let appliance troubles dampen your excitement – trust us to keep your new space running smoothly. 

Website 

(214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

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Signs Your Appliances Are Overheating—and How to Handle It

Simple steps to protect your home and appliances from overheating damage.

Appliances are the backbone of a modern home, working tirelessly to keep our lives running smoothly. But what happens when they start overheating? It might seem like a minor inconvenience at first—an extra-warm dryer load or food that browns too quickly in the oven. Yet, these small signs can indicate much larger problems brewing beneath the surface. Left unchecked, overheating can lead to serious malfunctions, costly repairs, and even potential safety hazards.

Understanding the early warning signs of overheating is crucial for maintaining the health of your appliances. By catching the problem early, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your household staples. In this guide, we’ll walk through common scenarios where overheating becomes a concern, showing you what might happen if you don’t address the issue—and how taking preventative steps can lead to a better outcome for your home.

Before: A Warm Back and Buzzing Noises

Picture a typical summer day in Texas. You reach for your fridge to get a cold drink and realize that the sides are feeling warmer than they should. You brush it off, thinking it's Texas. What else is new? However, you notice over the next few days that there are other things going on, and the heat hasn't diminished. Your milk is spoiling faster, and the food at the front of your fridge isn't as cold as it should be. You notice a persistent buzzing whenever you come into the kitchen. Then your energy bill arrives, and it's much higher than it should be, even though you're taking active steps to reduce your energy usage.

These are the classic signs of an overheating refrigerator. They all indicate that your fridge's compressor is working overtime and struggling to maintain temperature. If left unchecked, this can lead to a breakdown of the appliance.

After: Cool and Quiet

Now, let's see what that scenario can look like when you take action. Noticing the signs, you unplug your refrigerator and grab a broom to clean off the condenser coils. The coils being covered in dust prevented your fridge from cooling itself. While you're back there, you decide to check the fan and find that debris was obstructing it, also keeping it from cooling. Finally you check out the air filter and notice it was just as dusty and was choked because the refrigerator didn't have ventilation space.

After plugging your fridge back in, the buzzing noise vanished! Even better, the sides of the fridge are cool to the touch, and your next electric bill has gone back to normal. Congrats, you have successfully prevented a major appliance failure.

Before: Microwave Shuts Down Unexpectedly

Picture this: you're heating up some lunch in your microwave. Halfway through, the microwave suddenly shuts off. You try to press various buttons and power it back on, but it doesn't respond. You notice that the kitchen is warm but surely that's just because it's summer. You know that there had been a faint of buzzing before it shut off, but you thought that might have just been the tray getting stuck. It does that sometimes. It's annoying because all you want is to eat your lunch and go back about your day.

Having your microwave shut down suddenly like this suggests that the microwave has overheated. That shutdown is actually an automatic safety feature that kicks in when your microwave gets too hot. There are a lot of different reasons that can cause this, from faulty components to block ventilation to running the microwave for too long. And if you had your microwave for several years, wear and tear take a toll, making overheating much more likely.

After: Smooth
Operation and Safe Heating

What happens if you take steps to prevent this though? After the microwave cools down you check around the sides of the microwave and notice that it's partially blocked by other appliances on your counter. You clear the space around it to ensure it has proper air flow next to you grab the vinegar and clean the microwave thoroughly paying extra attention to the vents to get rid of all the dust. Then you make a mental note, or if you're like us a sticky note, to not run the microwave for extended periods of time without breaks.

Making these adjustments and having taken the time to let it cool down, your microwave starts working again. And you avoid further unexpected shutdowns because I can breathe better too. Plus you've extended the lifespan of your microwave by keeping up with a little maintenance.

Before: Dishwasher Overheats and Fails to Clean Properly

You start your wash cycle and continue going about your nightly routine. You hear strange sounds coming from your kitchen. You put it off until the next morning when you notice it's not cleaning the dishes as thoroughly as it should. In fact it hasn't been for a few weeks. It also seems to have been running very hot at times steam has been billowing out and when you open after it finishes some of the dishes have been scalding hot. Eventually a warning light or an error code pops up. And still your dishes are coming out dirty and you don't know why.

These are all signs that something has gone wrong with your dishwasher and it's overheating. The most common cause for this is a malfunctioning heating element which might have shorted out. This can raise the water temperatures beyond normal levels. Another possibility is that the thermostat that limits The heat is no longer working. Which means your dishwasher can't tell how hot the water has become. Alternately if the thermostat is malfunctioning or positioned wrong, it might not shut off the heating element which then causes the appliance to overheat.

After: Efficient Cleaning with Proper Temperature Regulation

What happens though when you work to address these issues? All three of those issues will typically require a professional to get involved. You can do it yourself, but it is fiddly work, and often difficult to get to. However you go about it, you've fixed your dishwasher. You noticed that the appliances running smoothly, the the steam has stopped billowing out, and the noises have stopped. You can now go back to loading your dishwasher without worrying about burning your hands or dishes not coming out clean.

Before: Clothes and Dryer Overheating

It's the start of your weekend and you are determined to get things done. You started drawing cycle for the laundry you're doing and keep on grooving. And then when it finishes you come over and yank your hand back because you realize that the exterior is too hot to touch. You wait a few minutes and open it up and find out your clothes are also unusually hot. This isn't right and you start to worry. Even more concerning there is a strange smell in the air. These are signs that your dryer is very probably overheating. It's frustrating and worrisome because you are on a roll and now you need to figure out what to do about this.

Several different issues can cause overheating. The most common culprit is a reduction of the airflow

through your dryer. Unfortunately, that can also be caused by several different sources. This can be due to a blockage in the internal duct or a kink in the transition hose that links your dryer to the wall. You could also have a blockage in that transition hose. Another problem that can cause overheating is excessive lint buildup either inside of the dryer or the exhaust outlet. Finally the exhaust outlet could also be not opening fully. And if it's not blocked airflow it could be a faulty heating element, a defective cycling thermostat a broken or missing felt seal, or an obstructed blower wheel. These are all mechanical elements that could be causing a problem.

After: Efficient and Safe Drying

What happens though when you've addressed those issues? You start by inspecting your vent system and find that there was a kink in the transition hose as well as a tiny sock. Is that what happens to all of them? Maybe. You also had excessive lint buildup in the vent. You clear that out and straighten the hose making sure that the air flow is now unrestricted. Next you check the exhaust outlet on your roof and that's fine it's opening completely without issue. You also check out the various mechanical parts, relying on our Good Friend YouTube to see what you're looking for. 

With these changes in place your dryer goes back to normal. The air flow moves smoothly through your dryer and it stops overheating the sides and your clothes. You can now get back on the roll and enjoy the rest of your weekend, without worrying about your clothes catching fire.

Before: Overheated Oven and Undercooked Meals

It's a Sunday and you are excitedly trying out a new recipe for cookies is that you've been looking forward to all week. The recipe calls for them to come out soft and golden brown. However when you open up your oven you find their a dark brown, dry and crumbly. You start wondering whether it is you and did you follow the recipe correctly? But then you think that it happened last night too with the chicken you made, it was tough but also cooked unevenly. You also noticed that the oven is unusually hot even for summer. This could be a sign that your oven is overheating, which leads to poorly cooked food and safety concerns.

There are several issues that could cause your oven to overheat. You might have a broken temperature sensor that's not accurately measuring the internal temperature. A faulty thermostat can also fail to regulate the temperature properly. Damaged heating elements or a loose thermostat knob can also contribute to the problem. Additionally a blocked vent, a faulty cooling fan, or a malfunctioning selector switch can all interfere with airflow and temperature regulation

After: Perfectly Baked and Well-Maintained Oven

Some of these issues you can fix on your own. Let's tackle those first. You start by cleaning your oven thoroughly, removing any food residue and grease that could block any of the vents. Be it on top on the sides or inside, you scrub everything. While you're at it you look at your ovens manual to find and clean the cooling fan. You also look over the heating elements by hand to see if you can find any obvious damage. 

 For the rest of it, though, you need a professional who knows what they're looking for. Especially if you're dealing with a gas oven. So you call them and they look at your broken temperature sensor and thermostat to ensure that it's working properly. If there was any damage to your heating elements they go and replace those. They also check out the loose thermostat knob making sure it's placed securely, and repairing the selector switch if it was needed.

With these fixes, your oven goes back to working properly for you. Your cookie recipe comes out perfectly golden, and your dinner that night is not a dry husk. Taking care of your oven and addressing any issues swiftly ensures safe and delicious cooking every time you turn it on.

Keeping your appliances in check can make all the difference in ensuring they run efficiently and safely for years to come. Whether it's preventing an overheated dryer or tackling a malfunctioning oven thermostat, the right steps can turn potential disasters into minor inconveniences. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, professional intervention is necessary. That’s where Appliance Rescue Service comes in.

Our team of expert technicians is ready to step in when things get complicated. From diagnosing tricky overheating issues to providing long-term maintenance solutions, we’re here to help you keep your home running smoothly. If any of your appliances show signs of overheating, don’t wait—give Appliance Rescue Service a call. We’ll make sure your appliances are back in top shape, so you can focus on the things that matter most.

Website

Call: ((214) 599-0055)

Additional Reading

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The Hidden Costs of Delaying Appliance Repairs

Don’t Let Minor Problems Turn Into Major Expenses

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to ignore that dripping washer or the lint-filled dryer vent. But did you know that postponing appliance repairs can cost you more than just time? From increased energy bills to potential health hazards, the risks of delaying maintenance are greater than you might think. Discover the hidden costs of procrastination and learn how Appliance Rescue Service can save you from future headaches.

While you’re debating, keep in mind that the longer you hold off, the more these four areas are going to go up.

 The cost to your appliance. 

The cost to your home. 

The cost to your bank account. 

And the cost to your comfort.

It sounds strange, but holding off is not helping you. Let’s take a look at each of them to find out why.  

Holding off on repairing your appliances naturally has an effect on said appliances. Let’s start by thinking about your dryer. You notice that the dryer’s exhaust duct is full of lint. However, having someone come out and clean out the lint is going to take time and money you’d rather put towards something else. 

As you wait, the lint continues to build up in the duct, it’s going to start coming out of the vent as well. It’s building up in the nooks and crannies of the dryer itself because it’s slowly running out of places to go.  All of that lint is also going to restrict the dryer’s ability to breathe, which means it’s going to be eating more energy, increasing your power bill. What’s more is that the longer that goes on, the longer it struggles, the logner it takes to dry your clothes. Which means you have to run it even longer, to get it to finish the job, and those two combined means that the lifespan of your dryer is ticking down as the various parts are struggling. 

Of course, holding off on maintenance and repairs like this also means that if anything major happens, like the dryer breaking or catching fire, you run the risk of having no warranty. Most appliance warranties include a clause that exempts them if the problem is proven to be due to the owner putting off repairs. 

Holding off on repairs or maintenance can also pose health risks, though. Let’s step away from the dryer for a moment and take a look at your washer. This time, it’s not as obvious as lint buildup. Maybe it’s just a hose on the back that’s leaking. You keep thinking, as many of us do, “oh, I’ll get to it this weekend.” Except then something else comes up or you’re just not feeling up to it. No big deal; it’s just a small drip; it only happens when you do laundry. It’s fine, right?

Except that drip can easily lead to much larger impacts. As we know you’re aware, water can lead to major damage on your home. A small puddle is easy to slip and get hurt on, be it child, pet, or adult. Then you have to consider how constantly is the water actually dripping? Is it just a drop here and there? Or is it enough that it could be causing damage to your floors? You also have to consider that as water sits, you might have mold building up in dark corners around and the washer. These are now issues that can grow on their own, and you still have to find the time to get the washer fixed. 

Next, let’s text a look at the cost to your bank account. You’re doing this to save money right? So why would it cost your bank account? 

Well, there’s two reasons, both linking back to one of our earlier issues. 

The first is the unplanned emergency repairs. As the problems with an appliance get bigger, they can become very expensive. What might have been a 30$ part and a 20-minute visit, could easily transform into multiple parts needing to be replaced and taking several hours to repair. You also have to consider the cost of the spreading problems we mentioned in the last section. As more areas of your home are affected, the chance that something that can’t be put off happening grows. It could be damage to your floors, mold, or the entire appliance dies. These issues then go from “I can get it fixed later” to “I need this fixed right now, if not yesterday.”

Our second issue is the cost to your home’s resale value. Some people choose to leave their appliances with their homes for whatever reason when they move, it certainly does increase the value. What if it’s damaged though? Or not working properly? A good prospective buyer will note that and the price they’re willing to pay will come down. Additionally, if a delayed repair has done any damage to your home? That price goes down even further. After all, no one wants to buy a house only to have to replace a molded wall panel or have wiring redone because their oven had faulty wiring. 

Finally, and most importantly in our opinion, is the cost to YOU.  When you put off maintenance, it won’t typically bother you, until you start to realize there are issues. You’re choosing how to spend your time and energy. (And that’s a good thing!) But when you start putting off actual repairs like we talked about with the washer? That’s when it starts to weigh on you. At first, you probably won’t think about it much. It just sits in the back of your mind, and every now and then, you’ll think about how you need to take a look at it.

That starts to lead to stress, though. And the more you put it off, the more you notice that problems are piling up, the more stress it adds to you. Then, as problems begin to grow, either with the appliance in question or the problems that crop up as it fails, they start to disrupt your life. Now, instead of going about your morning routine, you have to add in additional tasks, like checking on the washer or making sure the refrigerator didn’t accidentally freeze the food you needed for dinner. That leeches into your time at home, both working on the things that matter and your relaxation time. If something goes suddenly wrong, it’s entirely possible you’ll have to miss work in order to clean up the mess and try to get hold of an emergency repair. All of this of course adds on more stress to your heavy load. 

You can also have issues with culinary compromises, such as if your stove isn’t working or your freezer has gone out. You might only be able to bake instead of cooking on the stove (which means your house is hotter during Texas’ already gross summer heat.) Or you can only keep fresh foods on hand rather than being able to work from frozen. This adds on additional costs of time, energy and money as you have to do grocery shopping more often. 

Don’t let these issues pile up. Call Appliance Rescue Service today and let our skilled technicians take care of your repairs. Save yourself the hassle, stress, and extra costs by acting now. Your appliances—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

Website: https://appliance-rescue-service.com/contact-us

Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

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Minimize Waste, Maximize Sustainability: The Case for Appliance Repair

Why Repairing Household Appliances Matters for a Greener Home

You might not think twice about the energy your appliances consume, but what if we told you that maintaining and repairing them could significantly lower your carbon footprint? It’s true! Your household appliances play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Join us as we uncover the surprising ways your everyday actions can lead to a greener, more sustainable future.

Understanding Your Carbon Footprint 

When we talk about your carbon footprint, we're referring to the total carbon emissions resulting from your daily activities. This includes direct emissions like driving your car and heating your home, as well as the emissions needed to produce electricity for your computer, appliances, and HVAC system. Additionally, it encompasses the emissions associated with goods imported and produced elsewhere and then shipped to you. All these factors combined make up your individual carbon footprint.

 Countries also have carbon footprints, which are related to what they produce, import and export, and consume. 

 Finally, you have your primary and secondary carbon footprints. We're not talking about your left and right hands, but instead what you have control over versus what you don't. Your primary carbon footprint is what you have direct control over. Your secondary carbon footprint then has to do with carbon emissions tied to the goods and services that you consume. For example the manufacturing and transportation of consumer goods make up a lot of secondary carbon footprint. 

The Average Carbon Footprint in the US

Per person the average carbon footprint is 14.9 tons per year. On one hand, that's still quite a bit. That means that in a given year, you are contributing that much. On the other hand, as much as it might not seem like it we have actually gone down in our consumption on a per person usage. We are actually back down to what we were in 1949, and we are on a mostly downward trend, which is fantastic. But you're probably asking how did we lower it and, more importantly what the heck does that have to do with your home? 

Courtesy of Andrey Matveev

Both of these are tied together. Most of what we do and consume within our homes directly impacts our carbon footprint, and one of the biggest contributors is our appliances.

Why Should You Care

We’re not here to debate climate change—that's beyond the scope of our discussion. However, we can explain how our carbon footprints, individually and as a country, impact greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.

We want to note that household carbon only equates to 20% of carbon emissions in the United States. That leaves the other 80% that are created by other means, primarily industrial. So, while greenhouse gases are all of our responsibility to change, it does not mean that it is solely your responsibility.you can still make a difference by taking action at home and advocating for policy changes. 

How to Make a Difference

Now that you know what it is, and how it can affect you, how can you make changes? 

Surprisingly? One of the big answers is your appliances. From purchasing appliances, to maintaining them, to the question of repair vs replace, all of these affect your carbon footprint. 

When an appliance breaks down, it might seem easiest to just get a new one. However, this contributes to electronic waste, encourages companies to produce new appliances, and requires more raw materials.

By choosing to maintain and repair your household appliances, you can reduce waste, lower your energy consumption (and bills) and help create a greener environment around you. 

Reduces waste and lowers energy consumption

That’s all well and good, but how? 

Let’s take a look at the first one, reducing waste. The obvious answer is if you’re not throwing out an appliance, then you’re not adding waste to a landfill. Additionally though, you’re ensuring that you’re not purchasing all of the waste that comes with a new appliance. The plastic packaging to keep it looking pretty. The foam to protect it in travel. The foam and plastic that separate out different pieces for assembly. You also don’t have to purchase any of the aftermarket additions that you need to make it work for your household.

You also reduce your energy consumption. A poorly maintained or malfunctioning appliance will always eat more energy as it struggles to continue running. The harder it has to work, the more energy it will consumer, and the higher your power bills and higher greenhouse gas emissions. 

Lowers Carbon Emissions In Manufacturing

Courtesy of Pixabay

You continuing to repair your appliances also means that fewer resources are used to produce new appliances, thus creating less waste. Creating new appliances requires extracting and processing raw materials (which requires additional energy as well), the manufacturing process and then transportation. Each step contributes greenhouse gas emissions, waste in landfills, and using more resources. 

Promoting Sustainable Practices

When you choose to repair over replacing your appliances, you’re actively supporting your community, local businesses, and sending a message to appliance manufacturers. 

You support your community by supporting local businesses for repair.
Your need for parts supports the businesses that cater to parts for repair. 

Your choices, and support of local repair businesses, encourages your community, which in turn sends a messag to the appliance manufacturers that we want appliances that are sustainable. That you want ones that can be repaired instead of having to be destroyed instead. 

Courtesy of cottonbro studio

That message? Encourages the development of a repair-focused industry. That then can create more jobs and stimulate your local economy further and promote even more environmentally friendly practices. It’s a snowball effect that starts with you and the people you talk with. 

Encouraging Repairability And Upgradability

By prioritizing appliance repair, we influence manufacturers to design products that are easier to repair and upgrade. We want them to design products that are easier to repair and upgrade. This has the effect of not only ensuring your appliances last longer, but they require less materials to maintain. 

If we can get manufacturers to make it possible to upgrade your appliances with the help of a technician? It would mean that you didn’t need to purchase a whole new refrigerator, just because you want improved seals, or a new oven because you want the air-fryer addition. 

All of this is how your choices affect your carbon footprint, and the effects you can have on your community and the larger industry. What are the companies that make up that industry doing to help though? 

Companies That Are Working To Make A Difference

A final note before we round things out for the week is that there are companies that are trying to make changes just like you are at home. One way you can directly apply pressure to the industry is by supporting companies like these who are making positive changes and telling friends and family to support them as well. On a large scale, we have to try and shift culture towards embracing environmentally friendly ideas, and looking to try and change the problems that are being had on a cultural basis surrounding the carbon footprint.

Miele has promised to be carbon dioxide neutral across all its locations starting in 2021.  ((Check email to see if they got back to me)) 

Samsung has also been running a carbon offsetting campaign since 2019 to offset carbon emissions from customer usage. (This means that they are looking to find ways to balance out against all Samsung product usage, not that they're looking to change their manufacturing output.) 

LG has a zero-carbon initiative that has been running for five years at this point. It is committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions from its global operations by 2030. As of 2023, it is working hard to decrease carbon emissions, boost its renewable energy, and support other companies in making the switch to renewable energy as well. 

The business that we were most impressed by, though, is Bosch. In 2019 alone, Bosch launched more than 1000 different projects that generated enough electricity to bring power to 65,000 households in Germany for a year. (And while Germany is a long way off from us here in Texas,   by supporting companies like Bosch and demanding involvement like that here, we can make our wants known.)  Bosch is a company that has taken responsibility for combating the problems we’re facing, and are working to not just net zero, but to become carbon neutral. 

 Bosch launched 1000 different projects back in 2019 that generated enough electricity to power 65,000 households in Germany for a year.

This company in particular is one that really has taken up a lot of responsibility for combating the problems that we face with climate change. They intend to become carbon neutral in the immediate future, and this would make them the first big company in the industrial world to do so.

By prioritizing the maintenance and repair of your household appliances, you're not just reducing waste and saving on energy bills—you're actively contributing to a more sustainable future. Each choice you make at home echoes beyond your walls, influencing manufacturers to prioritize repairability and driving a shift towards eco-conscious living.

At Appliance Rescue Service, we believe in extending the lifespan of your appliances through reliable repairs. Our expert technicians specialize in ensuring your appliances contribute to a greener environment without sacrificing convenience. Join the conversation on sustainable living and discover how Appliance Rescue Service can be your partner in creating an eco-friendly home. Contact us today to schedule your next repair and take a step towards a more sustainable future.

Website
Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

Wondering How to Clean Your Appliances Sustainably? Eco-Friendly Methods Unveiled

The Planned Obsolescence Debate

Sustainability Unveiled The Complex Process of Recycling Your Appliances

Fact Check: Common Appliance Maintenance Beliefs Debunked

Avoid common pitfalls with our debunking guide

Keeping your home running smoothly can feel like a juggling act, especially when it comes to your appliances. With so much conflicting advice out there, how do you know what’s true and what’s just a myth? In this true/false guide, we’ll clear up some of the most common misconceptions about appliance care. Whether it's knowing when to clean your dryer or understanding why overstuffing your fridge can backfire, we're here to help you navigate the world of appliance maintenance with confidence and ease.

Do you think cleaning your appliances just once a year is enough?

Unequivocally false. Certain pieces of your appliances only need to be cleaned once a year; many of them need to be cleaned at least once a quarter. For example, your dryer’s vent hose needs to be cleaned every 6 months to a year. But the inside of your dryer should be cleaned quarterly, and the lint catch on the inside of the dryer should be cleaned every time you do laundry.

Can you chuck those boring manufacturer’s directions after setup?

We know they're boring. Unfortunately, we are not the ones tasked with writing and making appliance manuals clean and easy to read. But we do not advise chucking them in the trash. Many of them come with important warranty information as well as what different errors or sounds can mean or how to set up and use some of the various features. So, instead, we suggest sticking them into a file with all of your other appliance manuals.

Does stuffing your appliances to the brim save you cash?

Many of us make this mistake. Whether it's the washing machine or the refrigerator, stuffing it to the gills does not help your electric bill. In fact, by putting too much into any of your appliances, you can often end up damaging them in different ways. The impact varies from appliance to appliance, and we’ll provide additional reading links at the bottom to explore this further.

Can all maintenance tasks be done by you, the homeowner?

While the more skeptical reader might say, “Of course an appliance repair company would say no,” there's a valid reason. Many times, specialized tools are required for appliance repairs. Manufacturers design their appliances with this complexity to necessitate professional servicing. There's also a safety concern, especially with electronics. Unless you are experienced with electronics, we do not recommend DIY attempts. While many repairs can be done yourself, there are some that should be left to professionals.

Do you think any old cleaning product will do the trick?

Hahahahaha. Excuse us while we catch our breath. If you have ever tried cleaning a stainless steel refrigerator with the same Lysol wipes that you use to clean your counters, you will know that this is not the case. Different cleaning formulas are designed for specific tasks. We wish there was a one-size-fits-all solution, but even we haven't found one yet.

Is regular maintenance really the key to dodging pricey repairs?

Absolutely true, and that’s why we offer maintenance services. By regularly maintaining your appliances and having them inspected, either by yourself or a professional, you can identify issues in their early stages before they lead to major breakdowns.

If the cost of materials, time, and tools is 50% or more than the appliance, should you call a professional?

This is about saving time and money. Before attempting a DIY repair, consider the tools needed, time required, and cost of materials. If these costs exceed 50% of the appliance’s original purchase price, it's wise to call a professional. Technicians have expertise and tools on hand, minimizing the risk of costly mistakes.

Is it fine to keep all appliances plugged in during repairs?

No. Even if the repair seems unrelated to electronics, always unplug appliances before starting repairs. It’s not just a safety precaution but also practical. A simple slip or twist could inadvertently activate a component or cause a mess, leading to further issues.

Is protective clothing for repairs: Overkill or essential?

Essential. While the necessity varies by task, protecting your hands and wearing gloves minimizes exposure to contaminants and ensures safety.

Can a hammer and Phillips head screwdriver handle all tasks?

Remember how we mentioned specialized tools invented by appliance manufacturers? This one is obviously false. Different appliances require specific tools designed for their components and mechanisms.

Should you diagnose the issue before starting any appliance repair?

Absolutely true. Professional repair services always perform diagnostics before proceeding with repairs. It’s crucial to identify the root cause accurately, even for seemingly straightforward issues.

Is taking notes during repairs a smart move or a waste of time?

While experienced technicians may not need notes, documenting your findings during repairs is beneficial if the project becomes overwhelming or needs professional intervention. It ensures accurate communication with technicians, aiding in efficient repairs.

Can you immediately resume using an appliance after fixing it yourself?

False. Always ensure proper functionality after DIY repairs. Whether it’s running a test load in your washer or checking replaced parts, confirm everything operates smoothly before regular use.

Should you call professionals if a repair project takes more than a few hours?

Absolutely. Some repairs, especially involving multiple appliance components, can be complex and time-consuming. If you’ve invested hours without progress, it’s best to seek professional assistance to ensure a proper fix and save your valuable time.

Keeping your appliances in top shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You can ensure your appliances run smoothly and efficiently by debunking these common myths and following the right maintenance tips. But remember, some repairs and maintenance tasks are best left to the professionals. At Appliance Rescue Service, we’re here to help with expert repairs and maintenance services that keep your home running without a hitch. Contact us today to schedule a service and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your appliances are in good hands.

Website
Phone: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

Don't Let Your Dryer Become a Fire Hazard

Test Your Refrigerator IQ

37 Reasons To Have Your Appliances Maintained Regularly