ARM Repair:
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions / Troubleshooting Section


Often times, appliances can present some specific problems that may be addressed before calling a technician. Below are some FAQ or tips on how to troubleshoot the more common problems for wash machines, dryers, refrigerators and freezers.



Common problems for wash machines:          Back To Top


Q: Wash machine does not work and makes no noise - what can I check?

Possible Solutions:
  • Check that the washer is plugged in securely

  • Check the circuit breaker or fuse box

  • Test the outlet for current

  • Check that the water supply valves are turned on

  • Inspect the filter screens

  • Test for overheating

  • Test the water level switch

  • Test the timer control

  • Test the lid switch

  • Test the water inlet valve

  • Inspect the water pump

  • Test the centrifugal switch

  • Test the motor


Q: Washer does not work but it does make noise - what do I try?

Possible Solutions:
  • Check that the water supply valves are turned on
  • Inspect the filter screens
  • Test for overheating
  • Inspect the water pump
  • Test the water inlet valve
  • Test the motor

Q: No water is entering the wash tub, or no hot water, or no cold water:

Possible Solutions:
  • Check that the water supply valves are turned on
  • Inspect the water supply hoses for kinks
  • Check the filter screens
  • Test the water level switch
  • Test the water temperature switch
  • Test the timer control
  • Test the water inlet valve

Q: The water fills the wash tub too slowly:

Possible Solutions:
  • Check that the water valves are turned on full
  • Check the water pressure at the tap
  • Check the filter screens
  • Test the water inlet valve

Q: The tub does not fill with enough water:

Possible Solutions:
  • Test the water level switch
  • Check that the drain hose positioned roughly as high as the top of the inner tube

Q: The water overflows the wash tub:

Possible Solutions:
  • Test the timer control
  • Test the water level switch
  • Inspect the air tube for damage
  • Test the water inlet valve
  • *Information provided from http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/appliance/washer/diagwasher.php





Common problems with dryers:          Back To Top


Q: The dryer doesn't start or make any noise - what should I check?

Possible Solutions:
  • Make sure the dryer is plugged in and turned on
  • Does the dryer require a 240 volt receptacle? (Most do)
  • Check to see if door is fully closed
  • Check that the correct cycle is selected and that the timer is advanced accordingly
  • Check receptacle - make sure there is power to it
  • If receptacle is dead, check the circuit breaker or fuse

Q: Dryer is noisy or runs but does not tumble

Possible Solutions:
  • Some noises are caused by objects bouncing around inside the drum - check for this
  • A worn or defective drum belt, idler pulley, support roller or worn motor can also be a potential cause - call for service

Q: Dryer takes too long to dry - what do I check?

Possible Solutions:
  • This problem is often caused by the dryer's vent being blocked with lint. Dryers need to be properly vented, otherwise the moisture in the air cannot be properly carried away. Check for the following:
  • Check the lint trap and clean it
  • Be sure the dryer is not pushed so close to the wall that it pinches off the airflow through the vent's air duct hose
  • Check the point where the air duct vents away from the house
  • If needed, clean out the ductwork from the dryer to the exterior wall where it vents
  • *Information provided from http://www.hometips.com/home_probsolver/hps03/04_dryer/hps_dryer01.html





Common problems with refrigerators are:          Back To Top


Q: Refrigerator does not run and the light does not work - what do I check?

Possible Solutions:
  • Make sure the refrigerator is plugged in securely
  • Check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
  • Test the power outlet for current
  • Inspect the electrical cord for damage
  • Eliminate use of an extension cord
  • Check the outlet voltage

Q: Refrigerator does not run but the light works:

Possible Solutions:
  • Check the temperature setting
  • Make certain there is a three inch space outside of the refrigerator between the walls and the back and sides, and at least a one inch gap above to allow for air flow
  • Clean the condenser coils
  • Unplug the refrigerator, wait two hours and plug it in; if you hear it running, a problem is causing the compressor to overheat
  • Test the temperature control
  • Test the evaporator fan
  • Test the defrost timer
  • Test the compressor relay
  • Test the overload protector
  • Test the compressor motor




 Q: Refrigerator or freezer is not cold enough:

Possible Solutions:
  • Check the temperature setting
  • Assure that there is enough room for air flow in the refrigerator or freezer
  • Check for the air flow restrictions in vents
  • Test the temperature control
  • Clean the condenser coils
  • Check for door seals
  • Test the door switch
  • Test the defrost heater
  • Test the defrost timer
  • Test evaporator fan
  • Check for a clogged drain tube
  • Check for a refrigerant leak

Q: Refrigerator or freezer is too cold:

Possible Solutions:
  • Check the temperature setting
  • Test the temperature control
  • *Information provided from http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/appliance/refrigerator/diagrefrigerator.php

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