Answers
Appliance Repair FAQs — Fix It or Free Appliance Repair
We've organized the questions we hear most from Sarasota-area homeowners, property managers, and small businesses by appliance type and brand. Find the topic you need below.
My refrigerator is running but not cold. Is it worth repairing?
Usually yes, unless the compressor has failed on an older unit.
Can you repair both top-load and front-load washers?
Yes. We work on both types.
My dryer heats up but shuts off after a few minutes. What causes that?
Most often it's a cycling thermostat that's reading temperatures incorrectly, or a restricted exhaust duct causing the machine to overheat and trip a safety cutoff.
Why does my dishwasher smell bad even after it runs?
Food debris trapped in the drain filter or along the door gasket is the most common cause. Clean both thoroughly.
Can you repair both gas and electric ovens?
Yes. We work on gas ranges, electric ranges, and dual-fuel units.
Is it safe to use my microwave if it's making a burning smell?
No. Stop using it.
Can a freezer that stopped working be saved, or is it usually dead?
It depends on what failed. Defrost components, fans, relays, and thermostats are all repairable at reasonable cost.
My ice maker is making ice but the cubes taste bad. Is that a repair issue?
Usually not a mechanical one. Off-tasting ice most often comes from an old water filter or a water line that sat stagnant.
Can a cracked glass cooktop surface be repaired?
No. A cracked smooth-top or induction surface needs to be replaced, not repaired.
Can you repair an over-the-range microwave that also vents?
Yes. Over-the-range units combine a microwave and a ventilation fan in one appliance.
Why does my disposal smell even after I clean it?
Food waste builds up under the rubber splash guard and along the grinding ring where water doesn't reach during normal use. Removing and cleaning the splash guard helps.
Can you repair any brand of wine cooler?
We work on a wide range of brands, including both compressor and thermoelectric models. If you are unsure which type you have, the unit's manual or a label inside the door will say.
How often should a washer and dryer be serviced?
Once a year is a reasonable interval for most households. If you run multiple loads daily or live close to the coast where salt air is a factor, twice a year makes sense.
Do you diagnose all appliance brands?
We work on all major household appliance brands, including high-end models like Sub-Zero and Wolf that are common in the Sarasota area. If it is a residential appliance, we can diagnose it.
Can a refrigerator sealed system actually be repaired, or does it always need a new compressor?
It depends on where the failure is. A refrigerant leak in an accessible line can often be repaired and recharged.
Can a control board be fixed, or does it always have to be replaced?
Some boards can be repaired at the component level if a specific part like a capacitor or relay has failed. Others require full replacement.
Is it safe to use a gas appliance that has an ignition problem?
If the appliance is lighting manually and there is no gas smell, the risk is lower, but an ignition fault should still be diagnosed.
Do you work on commercial appliances, or only residential?
We repair commercial-grade appliances including heavy-duty washers, commercial refrigerators, and cooking equipment used in restaurants, laundromats, and small businesses.
Can you get parts for older or discontinued appliance models?
Often, yes. Many parts for discontinued models are still available through aftermarket suppliers.
Can I clean the dryer vent myself?
You can clean the first few feet of duct behind the dryer with a brush kit from a hardware store.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help — reach out and we'll get right back to you.