Safe DIY Appliance Checks

Before inspecting an appliance

Stop using equipment that smokes, sparks, smells burnt, leaks near electricity or repeatedly trips a breaker. Keep away from wet connections. Leave covers and internal parts in place.

AC

• Weak cooling

  Check cooling mode and clean the accessible filter according to the manual.

• Indoor drip

  Note whether water appears during cooling or after shutdown.

• Loud outdoor unit

  Record when the sound starts.

• Unit trips power

  Stop use and report when it trips.

See ac repair

TV

• Sound but no picture

  Check whether the TV menu appears and try a known source.

• Lines on screen

  See whether lines also appear on the built-in menu.

• No power

  Check the remote batteries and visible power connections.

• Apps freeze

  Check whether other devices use the same network successfully.

See tv repair

Washing Machine

• Will not drain

  Check the visible hose for a kink.

• Shakes during spin

  Pause and redistribute a lopsided load if safe.

• Will not fill

  Check the supply tap and visible inlet hose.

• Leaks during wash

  Stop use and note where water first appears.

See washing machine repair

Refrigerator

• Freezer cold but fridge warm

  Check that containers do not block visible vents.

• Frost returns

  Note where it forms and check for a door obstruction.

• Water inside

  Check for spills and note where water pools.

• Both sections warm

  Record when cooling was last normal.

See refrigerator repair

Microwave Oven

• Runs without heating

  Note the selected mode and whether the display counts down.

• Sparks or smoke

  Stop use and keep the unit off.

• Plate does not turn

  With the unit off check whether the removable plate sits properly.

• Door damaged

  Stop using the oven.

See microwave oven repair