How to Find an Appliance Repair Service

Check the manufacturer's list of certified technicians, and use customer review websites to narrow the choice

By Sabah Karimi

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Fixing your own appliances might seem like a good idea at the time, however, making your own repairs can void the warranty and, unless you're an expert, cause other unitended consequences. Instead, contact an appliance repair service the moment you begin experiencing problems. Appliance repair service providers are trained to use specialized tools and equipment to troubleshoot, repair and modify household appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines and air conditioners.

• What You Need to Know
• Check the warranty on your appliance to find out if the manufacturer will cover the cost of repairs and parts.
• Be prepared to pay extra fees for emergency repair service or service on weekends and holidays. Some repair services charge an extra fee for service outside a certain radius from their offices.
• Make a list of all problems you are experiencing with your appliance, and any modifications you have already made so the appliance repair technician can have a more accurate idea of what the nature of the problem could be.

Step 1:

Contact a home improvement store or and home builders associations in your area. Many work with appliance repair technicians and repair service providers to manage their own projects, and they may be able to offer you reputable companies to contact as you start on your search. Consult a consumer review website such as Angie's List or Yelp to look for technicians in your area that have positive customer reviews.

Step 2:

Request an in-person consultation. A reputable appliance repair service company will send a technician to your home or office to assess the extent of damage or problems associated with the appliance. This allows them to make an accurate estimate of the cost of the work.

Step 3:

Ask for licensing, certification and insurance information. Make sure the appliance repair service is qualified by verifying its license with your state's licensing board. Find out what types of appliance certification the provider carries and confirm that the provider has general liability and workers' compensation insurance.

Step 4:

Request a written estimate for services. Ask the appliance repair technician to provide a comprehensive cost breakdown of services and parts. The estimate should include any fees associated with driving to your location, as well as shipping fees for parts that may need to be ordered.

Step 5:

Ask about any guarantees and warranties on the work. Find out if the appliance repair service provider guarantees its work, and for how long. Also ask about any warranties on parts that may be ordered to fix or restore your appliance.

• Tips & Warnings
• If a bid seems too low, the appliance repair service provider may not be able to offer the highest level of service, or it has misquoted you on the cost of materials and labor.
• If you're having problems with a brand-name appliance purchased from a retail store, the store's repair technicians may be able to offer discounted repair services.
• Some appliance repair technicians will charge by the hour, while others will charge on a per-project basis. Make sure you're clear about how the labor charges are handled before signing the agreement or contract.