Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also come with unexpected challenges—especially when it comes to the appliances. A home may look perfect on the surface, but hidden appliance issues can lead to costly appliance repair bills down the road. To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve put together a list of the top 9 appliance issues you should watch out for before signing on the dotted line.
Whether you’re dealing with trusted brands like LG, Samsung, Sub-Zero, Frigidaire, Kenmore, or Whirlpool, understanding potential problems can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s dive into the critical appliance checks every prospective homeowner should perform.
1. Age of the Appliances
One of the most significant indicators of potential appliance repair needs is the age of the appliances in the home. Most appliances have a specific lifespan, and as they approach the end of that lifespan, the likelihood of breakdowns increases.
- Refrigerators (LG, Samsung, Whirlpool): Typically last 10-15 years.
- Dishwashers (Bosch, Frigidaire, Kenmore): Generally last 7-12 years.
- Ovens and Ranges (GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid): Often last 15-20 years.
- Washing Machines (Samsung, LG, Maytag): Usually last 10-14 years.
Knowing the age of these appliances can help you anticipate future appliance repair costs. If the appliances are nearing the end of their expected lifespan, you may want to negotiate a lower purchase price to account for possible replacements or repairs.
2. Signs of Wear and Tear
Visible wear and tear on appliances is another red flag that could indicate the need for future appliance repair. Common signs to look out for include:
- Rust and Corrosion: This is particularly common in older dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators. Rust can lead to leaks and inefficiencies.
- Cracked Seals: Refrigerator door seals and oven door gaskets are prone to cracking over time, leading to energy loss and inconsistent temperatures, which can prompt an appliance repair.
- Loose or Broken Handles: Appliances like refrigerators and ovens see heavy daily use. Broken or loose handles can indicate more extensive wear.
These signs might seem minor, but they often point to deeper issues that could require immediate appliance repair after you move in.
3. Energy Efficiency
Older appliances are often less energy-efficient, leading to higher utility bills. Energy-efficient appliances not only save money but also reduce the strain on the environment.
- ENERGY STAR® Appliances: Brands like LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool offer ENERGY STAR® certified appliances that are designed to be more energy-efficient.
- Smart Appliances: Newer models from Samsung and LG come with smart features that allow you to monitor and adjust energy usage.
If the appliances in the home are outdated and not energy-efficient, you may end up spending more on utilities—and possibly on appliance repair due to the strain of inefficient operation.
4. Performance and Functionality
Even if an appliance looks good on the outside, it’s essential to ensure it performs well. Check all major appliances for functionality:
- Refrigerators: Ensure the refrigerator maintains a consistent temperature and that the freezer is working correctly. Water dispensers and ice makers should also be functional.
- Ovens and Ranges: Test both the oven and stove burners. Inconsistent heating can indicate the need for appliance repair.
- Dishwashers: Run a cycle to ensure the dishwasher cleans effectively and doesn’t leave any residue.
If any of these appliances are not functioning correctly, you could be facing costly appliance repair soon after moving in.
5. Noise Levels
Appliances should run quietly, especially in modern homes where open floor plans are common. Excessive noise can be a sign that an appliance is struggling and may need appliance repair.
- Dishwashers: Brands like Bosch and Samsung are known for their quiet operation. If the dishwasher is noisy, it could be a sign of motor or pump issues.
- Washing Machines: Excessive vibration or noise could indicate an imbalance or worn-out components, both of which require appliance repair.
Don’t ignore unusual sounds when testing appliances—they often signal underlying problems.
6. Installation and Setup
Proper installation is critical for the efficient operation of appliances. An improperly installed appliance can lead to performance issues and may void warranties, leading to out-of-pocket appliance repair costs.
- Gas Appliances: Ensure gas stoves and ovens are properly connected, with no signs of leaks.
- Washing Machines: Verify that washing machines are level and securely connected to water lines to avoid leaks and potential damage.
If you notice any issues with installation, it’s essential to address them immediately to prevent the need for future appliance repair.
7. Brand Reliability and Warranty
The brand of an appliance can provide insights into its reliability and potential appliance repair needs. Some brands have a reputation for durability, while others might be more prone to breakdowns.
- Reliable Brands: LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Bosch are generally considered reliable and come with robust warranties.
- Luxury Brands: Sub-Zero and Wolf offer high-end appliances, but repair costs can be higher if something goes wrong.
Always check if the appliances are still under warranty. A valid warranty can cover the cost of appliance repair, saving you from unexpected expenses.
8. Availability of Replacement Parts
Before committing to a home purchase, consider the availability of replacement parts for the existing appliances. Some older or less common models may have parts that are difficult to source, making appliance repair more challenging.
- Common Brands: Whirlpool, GE, and Samsung usually have widely available parts, making repairs easier.
- Luxury Brands: Sub-Zero and Wolf, while high-quality, may have parts that are more expensive and harder to find.
If parts are difficult to come by, you might have to replace the entire appliance instead of just performing a simple appliance repair.
9. Overall Condition and Maintenance History
Finally, inquire about the maintenance history of the appliances. Well-maintained appliances are less likely to require immediate appliance repair. Ask the current homeowner for any records of service or repairs.
- Refrigerators: Have the coils been cleaned regularly?
- Washing Machines: Has the drum been balanced and maintained?
- Ovens/Ranges: Have the burners and oven elements been serviced?
A good maintenance history can indicate that the appliances have been cared for, reducing the likelihood of needing appliance repair in the near future.
Conclusion
When buying a home, it’s crucial not to overlook the condition of the appliances. Issues like age, wear and tear, energy inefficiency, performance, noise levels, improper installation, brand reliability, availability of replacement parts, and overall maintenance can all lead to unexpected appliance repair costs. By paying attention to these factors, you can avoid costly surprises and ensure that your new home is truly move-in ready.
If you’re unsure about the condition of the appliances in a home you’re considering, it may be worth hiring a professional appliance repair service to conduct an inspection. This can provide peace of mind and help you make a more informed decision.
By being proactive and informed, you can save yourself from future appliance repair headaches and enjoy your new home with confidence.
