Appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines are integral parts of any household. They're also very expensive items, so when one breaks down, the first thought should be finding a good appliance repair service. But how do you which companies are better than others? Luckily, doing some research and remembering a few handy tips will help you narrow down the selection and ensure you’re making the right choice.

Here are four useful tips on finding the best appliance repair service for your problem:

• Word of Mouth: Talk to neighbors, friends, and other members of the local community to see if there's anybody they recommend for the type of repair you're looking for. Ask them about price, the quality of repairs, and timeliness. 
• Online Ratings: In the internet era, almost every company — even small local businesses — have been rated online. Reading reviews on sites like Angie's List, Yelp, and Google Reviews is like talking to friends and neighbors without having to go any further than your computer. It's a convenient way to hear much of what you need to know about local appliance repair companies. 
• Get a Sense of Average Cost: You want to go into your phone call or consultation with an appliance repair company knowing the average cost of the services they provide. This gives you important leverage when it comes to negotiating a price. Most companies charge between $75 to $150 an hour. Learn about competitors' rates and use your research when discussing work with a company. 
• Distinguish Between Repair & Replace: Do your research and know when an appliance like a refrigerator or dishwasher needs a repair or when it’s old and malfunctioning enough to require a full replacement. Sometimes, $100 may be all it takes to return a critical appliance to long-term working condition. In other cases, though, an endless stream of costly repairs may be an indication that a full replacement is worth the price. 

Carolina Appliance Service in Matthews, NC, is a locally owned business that's been fixing appliances for North Carolinians since 1993, including refrigerators, dishwashers, stoves, and washer and dryers. Give the appliance repair professionals a call today at (704) 847-0004.