Most household appliances can last a decade or longer without serious problems, but eventually nearly all of them require appliance repair. Expert service can be cost-prohibitive, so you may be interested in a DIY project instead. Below are some tips to help you repair some basic appliance problems.

How to Address Common Appliance Repair Problems

1. Washer Rocks Noisily

When your washer makes a racket on the spin cycle, it's generally because the legs are not square on the floor, and the cabinet isn't level. Reach under the washer cabinet and locate the four adjustable feet in each corner. Unscrew them until each is flat on the ground, and then make sure the cabinet is level using a bubble square.

Adjust the feet as necessary. If the appliance is missing one or more feet, you can find replacements at an appliance supply store.

2. Electric Stove Won't Heat

Often, the problem with an electric stove burner is a buildup of gunk on or around the burner prongs.  Whether from grease spatter or a pot that boiled over, food debris can build up around the prongs and prevent the burner from making clean contact with the power supply.

Turn off all burners, wait for the stove to cool, and gently lift and unplug the electric burner. Scrub the contacts in warm water to remove the gunk, and plug it back in. If this does not do the trick, you can purchase an inexpensive burner replacement.

3. Lights Are Out

After a storm or electrical event, you may notice one or more lamps in your house do not work, or multiple outlets provide no current. The first step is to check your breaker box for a tripped switch. All breakers should point in toward "On." If a breaker has not tripped, it is likely a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) problem.

Check each of the affected outlets since one or more of them should have a GFCI that acts as a localized breaker. This is meant to prevent damage to the outlet in case of a surge or ground fault. GFCIs usually contain a red and black button in the center of the plate. Press the one marked "Reset"—usually the red one—to return power to the outlets.

If you need supplies for an appliance repair project, contact Appliance Parts of Radcliff in Radcliff, KY. They have been Hardin County's premier appliance parts distributor for more than 25 years. This appliance parts store specializes in refrigerator, washer, dryer, and AC parts along with appliance replacements. Learn more about them on their website or call (270) 352-2900 to ask about business hours and part availability.