We occasionally hear from customers who have bought new appliances, particularly ovens and cooktops, from online auction sites, or privately. While the prices can’t be matched by the regular retailers, there are reasons why those online appliances are so cheap and they aren’t always good reasons.

Check the warranty on the appliance you buy. Even from reputable dealers, this can be an issue. Bear in mind that the savings on the goods need to cover at least one breakdown. So if something  goes on your oven or cooktop, you need to be saving more than $250 on the buy to cover even a relatively minor issue.

Is it a mainstream brand? It may seem attractive to buy an Italian or other overseas brand, but if it is not supported in Australia, parts and serviceability will be a constant problem. Even a new oven seal may be difficult to source.

Is it an Australian model? Occasionally we find overseas models of  even the more mainstream brands are being sold online, much more cheaply. But there are no parts available for these models as they are not supported in this country.

So before buying online, bear in mind that you want an appliance to last, especially if it is being installed  in a specific cabinet or bench space. This can also apply to dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers. Sometimes the attractive online models are not the ones to buy.

Its time to consider how you are treating your refrigerator now the summer is approaching. Your fridge works by cooling the air inside the fridge using (usually) the cold air from your freezer. That in turn cools each of the items inside the fridge. Over working your fridge in the summer will put extra pressure on the compressor (your main motor in the fridge) and overworking the compressor can be caused by a number of factors. In most fridges, replacing the compressor will be too expensive, so its best if you can care for it well.

Firstly, the seals of your fridge and freezer need to be performing to their optimum capacity. Keeping them clean by wiping them down with warm soapy water occasionally, or when you notice them getting a little sticky, will extend their lives.

Make sure there are no obstructions to the door closing firmly. Its not worth the damage to your fridge to wedge just one more bottle of drink in at party time.

Lastly, be careful of how much is sitting in the door of the fridge. The hinges of your fridge are susceptible to damage if there is too much weight in the door, and if damaged, the seals will not work to capacity.

Once you have a problem, particularly if the fridge itself is not cooling, give us a call. Our experienced, and prompt technicians can help you out.

Looking at repairing an appliance? But what about the cost of a home visit?

Sometimes for smaller machines, such as dryers and some washing machines, the cost of having a repair man come out to visit your home can be uneconomic when the appliance is not expensive to replace.

However we have a workshop here at our Hamilton base, open 7.30am – 4.30 pm weekdays, where you can drop off your dryer or washer, (or even your dishwasher if you have the transport capability) where our technicians will inspect your appliance and report back to you on repair options. Although we will charge a fee to quote it is often a better option when you have a smaller sized appliance.

Call us to find out more on 07 36301611.

It is easy to overlook one of the major components of your appliances; one which affects the efficient running of your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, dryer or any appliance you plug into a wall socket.

Is the plug securely fastened into the wall socket? Do you switch off your wall socket before inserting the plug, then switch back on? Take the time, every time, to make sure the plug of your fridge, dishwasher, washer, dryer or freezer is inserted correctly while the wall socket is switched off. Once the plug is inserted fully, then switch your appliance back on.

If the plug is not securely inserted, your appliance may be working overtime, putting the motor or compressor at risk, as a bad connection will cause arcing which leads to inefficient running of the appliance as the motor or compressor will be working extra hard.  This will particularly affect a fridge. Be careful of wedging a washer or fridge too tightly against the wall as this may affect the plug too. And be sure to check that the plugs and cords of your dishwasher, fridge, dryer or washer have no damage. Look after this important but often overlooked aspect of your appliances and give us a call at Albion Appliance Service if you need help with any issues you have with your whitegoods.

The New Year is a time of resolution, new beginnings and handy-work! Since you’ve got a few spare minutes up your sleeve, it’s time to knuckle down and get things done around the house, starting with your annual appliance check. If they turn off and on, that’s a great start, but not at all what we mean. Your fridge, dishwasher, washing machine and even microwave require a check or two throughout the year to ensure you’re getting the best performance possible out of your white goods.  Continue reading →