FAQ

FAQs

Astre Appliance Service

Have an appliance repair-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs, and give us a call today for more information!

  • How Does Your No Service Charge With Repair Policy Work?

    When you set up an appointment with us, there is initially a service charge. A tech visits, diagnoses the problem, figures out a remedy to the problem, and offers you an exact quote for parts and repair costs.


    If at that point, you decide to have the appliance repaired, the service charge is then waived and all that is owed is the quoted price for the repair. We also offer a 2-year warranty on parts and labor. If instead of having it repaired, you decide to think about it or purchase a new appliance, only the service charge is levied. If within 30 days, you decide to have the appliance repaired through us, the service charge is deducted from the originally quoted price so the price remains the same.

  • How Long is Your Warranty?

    We provide a warranty on our parts and labor for two years from the date of the original repair. Within two years from the date of a completed repair, Astre Appliance Service will provide the necessary adjustments, corrections, or parts replacement (for repairs previously performed on this invoice only) at no charge, unless noted differently on the invoice. Within the first 30 days from the date of completed repair, no service or trip charge will be charged. After 30 days, the normal trip charges apply.

  • How Do You Charge?

    We offer flat rate pricing per job. Since we have multiple technicians out on the route, it’s not fair to charge hourly rates considering some technicians can do a job faster than others. With flat rate pricing, the job cost is the same for our customers regardless of the technician’s speed.


    The price quoted is based on the Nation Appliance Major Price Guide Book, also called ‘the blue book’ for appliance repairs. This book is distributed and approved by all the manufacturers to keep the pricing uniform across the country.

  • Should I Repair or Replace My Appliance?

    Anything can be repaired, but is that fiscally responsible to do so? We understand that at some point, we all need to cut our losses and possibly buy a new appliance. The average life span of appliances ranges from 10-30 years, depending on the make and model. Our technicians are always upfront with their expert opinion as to whether it’s worth fixing or replacing.

  • Can You Tell Me What’s Wrong With My Appliance and What It Costs to Fix Over the Phone?

    No. Simply put, it’s impossible to diagnose any issues over the phone. Any type of phone diagnosis would only be speculation because simple issues such as a broken wire could seem like much larger problems such as bad control boards or motors.

  • Why Do Some Appliance Cost More To Fix Than Others?

    Sort of the same way a Porsche costs more to fix than a Ford. Some appliances, especially the higher-end models, require more knowledge and skill to repair. Nowadays, the amount of electronics knowledge of appliances is just as important as the amount of mechanical knowledge that is required.

  • Dishwasher Grinding Noise: How Do I Stop It?

    Our homes are full of noise. From electronics use and the HVAC unit to cooking sounds and the voices of family members, your home may often seem like it’s just a few decibels below a rock concert. But it’s all good because it shows that you have life and happiness going on under your roof. However, one sound you don’t want to hear is a dishwasher grinding noise. If you are facing this issue, your main concern is how to stop it.


    A dishwasher grinding noise can drown out all other noises in your house. It’s a source of worry and questions. In addition to asking how you will clean your dishes now and whether should you just throw them away, you will want to know how to stop it. Learn more to make the decision that is best for your household.


    Why you need to know what to do about dishwasher grinding noise

     

    You probably don’t have the money for a new dishwasher right now. Since your dishwasher is a huge convenience and a big investment, it’s essential to take care of it correctly. A brand-new dishwasher will set you back approximately $300 to $700. When you add on installation and labor costs of $200 to $500 and that’s quite an unexpected chunk out of your budget.


    Ignoring a problem will likely make it worse. If something has fallen into your machine and is wearing down the parts, the situation will only become louder and more pronounced until it is fixed.


    Remember that it could all be normal. Since your dishwasher runs on a motor-driven electrical mechanism, slight grinding noises as it works through the cleaning cycle are no cause for concern. Also, to solve the issue of washing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, some brands now include food disposals and grinders within the machine. This prevents you from having to prewash but it can produce an annoying grinding sound. Pick your poison.


    Possible causes for dishwasher grinding noise


    Food or other debris stuck in the motor – there are numerous moving parts in your dishwasher. One of the most important is the motor. That’s why it’s necessary to ensure that it remains unencumbered. Even if you dutifully rinse your dishes before loading, there are still food particles left over. Over time, these can build up and create a mass of grit, which will produce that dreaded dishwasher grinding noise.


    Timeworn motor bearings – depending on the age of your dishwasher, the rubber around the bearings can weaken over time. This is most often caused by things like years of exposure to hot water and steam.


    The dishwasher is not properly fastened to the cabinet or floor – your dishwasher must be secure in its housing. If not, strange noises can result.


    Wash or drain impellers – these could be broken or cracked. If there is debris or the broken pieces are chaffing the sides, you will hear a loud grinding noise.


    Insufficient water spray – the parts of your dishwater require water to operate the way it’s supposed to. Sometimes, there is not enough water spraying into your machine due to a malfunctioning water inlet valve.


    Tips on troubleshooting your dishwasher grinding noise problem


    Find your service manual. All dishwashers are different. While many of the parts are universal, there might be subtle differences you need to be aware of. For example, some may have additional pieces that will need to be removed. Most come with schematics and instructions for how to address possible problems.


    Check your filter. Occasional maintenance on your dishwasher is essential. It doesn’t matter if you have a KitchenAid, GE, Bosch, or other brands of dishwashing machines. Most models have a filter that needs to be cleaned out periodically. Many people are not aware of this. On a majority of models, a detachable filter is located on the bottom of the tub. When not cleaned, it can cause overflows. If it’s too full, excess food particles will have to go somewhere else, and most likely, they will go where they don’t belong and cause that dishwasher grinding noise.


    Take the dishwasher apart, piece by piece, until you locate the issue. First, you will need to unplug the appliance. Next, you will need to take apart the spray arm assembly at the bottom by unscrewing the screw which holds it. You may also have to remove the pump housing, spacer plate, and screen. At each step, take a look to be sure nothing is stuck in these areas. Doing this will help you determine exactly where the problem is and where you should focus your efforts. Whether you have a Kenmore, GE, Whirlpool, or other brand, the method for taking it apart is pretty general.


    Interrupt the cleaning cycle. Many dishwashers allow you to pause or stop the cleaning cycle in the middle. If yours does this, take advantage. When you hear the grinding noise, open the dishwasher door. Wait for the steam to clear and then check the area under the bottom rack, around the rotating plastic blades, to see if there is anything stuck.


    Clean as you go. Since you have taken it apart, you might as well use the opportunity to clean the parts of your dishwasher. For instance, the screen can be cleaned with simple soap and water.


    Run your dishwasher when it’s empty. The problem could be a faulty motor and not something jammed in the parts. If you still hear your dishwasher grinding noise when there is nothing in the machine, it could be a plumbing or motor issue.


    Replace any broken or damaged parts. When you inspect your dishwasher, you may clean the parts and still experience the noise. You might also locate parts that are cracked or broken beyond repair. Then you may need to replace the part. Write down the model and serial numbers to make it easier at the home improvement store.


    Hire a qualified appliance repair technician. Sometimes, DIY is not your best option, especially if you are inexperienced in working with the parts of a major appliance. You don’t want to make the situation worse. More importantly, you don’t want to make a mistake that could void your warranty.Our homes are full of noises. From electronics use and the HVAC unit to cooking sounds and the voices of family members, your home may often seem like it’s just a few decibels below a rock concert. But it’s all good because it shows that you have life and happiness going on under your roof. However, one sound you don’t want to hear is a dishwasher grinding noise. If you are facing this issue, your main concern is how to stop it.


    A dishwasher grinding noise can drown out all other noises in your house. It’s a source of worry and questions. In addition to asking how you will clean your dishes now and whether should you just throw them away, you will want to know how to stop it. Learn more to make the decision that is best for your household.


    Why you need to know what to do about dishwasher grinding noise


    You probably don’t have the money for a new dishwasher right now. Since your dishwasher is a huge convenience and a big investment, it’s essential to take care of it correctly. A brand-new dishwasher will set you back approximately $300 to $700. When you add on installation and labor costs of $200 to $500 and that’s quite an unexpected chunk out of your budget.


    Ignoring a problem will likely make it worse. If something has fallen into your machine and is wearing down the parts, the situation will only become louder and more pronounced until it is fixed.


    Remember that it could all be normal. Since your dishwasher runs on a motor-driven electrical mechanism, slight grinding noises as it works through the cleaning cycle are no cause for concern. Also, to solve the issue of washing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, some brands now include food disposals and grinders within the machine. This prevents you from having to prewash but it can produce an annoying grinding sound. Pick your poison.


    Possible causes for dishwasher grinding noise

     

    Food or other debris stuck in the motor – there are numerous moving parts in your dishwasher. One of the most important is the motor. That’s why it’s necessary to ensure that it remains unencumbered. Even if you dutifully rinse your dishes before loading, there are still food particles left over. Over time, these can build up and create a mass of grit, which will produce that dreaded dishwasher grinding noise.


    Timeworn motor bearings – depending on the age of your dishwasher, the rubber around the bearings can weaken over time. This is most often caused by things like years of exposure to hot water and steam.


    The dishwasher is not properly fastened to the cabinet or floor – your dishwasher must be secure in its housing. If not, strange noises can result.


    Wash or drain impellers – these could be broken or cracked. If there is debris or the broken pieces are chaffing the sides, you will hear a loud grinding noise.


    Insufficient water spray – the parts of your dishwater require water to operate the way it’s supposed to. Sometimes, there is not enough water spraying into your machine due to a malfunctioning water inlet valve.


    Tips on troubleshooting your dishwasher grinding noise problem

     

    Find your service manual. All dishwashers are different. While many of the parts are universal, there might be subtle differences you need to be aware of. For example, some may have additional pieces that will need to be removed. Most come with schematics and instructions for how to address possible problems.


    Check your filter. Occasional maintenance on your dishwasher is essential. It doesn’t matter if you have a KitchenAid, GE, Bosch, or other brands of washing machine. Most models have a filter that needs to be cleaned out periodically. Many people are not aware of this. On a majority of models, a detachable filter is located on the bottom of the tub. When not cleaned, it can cause overflows. If it’s too full, excess food particles will have to go somewhere else, and most likely, they will go where they don’t belong and cause that dishwasher grinding noise.


    Take the dishwasher apart, piece by piece, until you locate the issue. First, you will need to unplug the appliance. Next, you will need to take apart the spray arm assembly at the bottom by unscrewing the screw which holds it. You may also have to remove the pump housing, spacer plate, and screen. At each step, take a look to be sure nothing is stuck in these areas. Doing this will help you determine exactly where the problem is and where you should focus your efforts. Whether you have a Kenmore, GE, Whirlpool, or other brands, the method for taking it apart is pretty general.


    Interrupt the cleaning cycle. Many dishwashers allow you to pause or stop the cleaning cycle in the middle. If yours does this, take advantage. When you hear the grinding noise, open the dishwasher door. Wait for the steam to clear and then check the area under the bottom rack, around the rotating plastic blades, to see if there is anything stuck.


    Clean as you go. Since you have taken it apart, you might as well use the opportunity to clean the parts of your dishwasher. For instance, the screen can be cleaned with simple soap and water.


    Run your dishwasher when it’s empty. The problem could be a faulty motor and not something jammed in the parts. If you still hear your dishwasher grinding noise when there is nothing in the machine, it could be a plumbing or motor issue.


    Replace any broken or damaged parts. When you inspect your dishwasher, you may clean the parts and still experience the noise. You might also locate parts that are cracked or broken beyond repair. Then you may need to replace the part. Write down the model and serial numbers to make it easier at the home improvement store.


    Hire a qualified appliance repair technician. Sometimes, DIY is not your best option, especially if you are inexperienced in working with the parts of a major appliance. You don’t want to make the situation worse. More importantly, you don’t want to make a mistake that could void your warranty.

  • What To Do If My Washer Smells Like Mold

    Since mold can grow on almost any surface where moisture is present, this makes it practically a fact of life in our homes. You may expect to find it on your shower curtain, in the corners of your basement, or on some old bread. But what can you do when it invades your appliances and your washer smells like mold?


    Mold can hide in some pretty sneaky places in your home and look very unsightly at the same time. You may see black stains around your refrigerator door and drip pans or on the walls of your toilet tank. These things might be easy to deal with. However, mold growth also leaves an odor, making areas like your microwave or washer smell like mold. But fear not. There are ways to eliminate this problem.


    Why your washer smells like mold


    It’s easy for your washer to develop a moldy smell. This complaint is particularly common for those with front-loading washing machines.


    Do you leave your washing machine door open after doing a load of laundry?

    Probably not, because doing so may create a hazardous situation for your family. However, closing the door allows the moisture to become trapped there until it’s time to open it again for the next load. Unfortunately, that’s one of the reasons why it’s so easy for mold to grow there.


    Did you forget to transfer your clothes to the dryer? If you leave wet clothes too long, this can also make your washer smell like mold. The only way to get rid of the smell is to wash the clothes again.


    Is your washing machine level? Sometimes the floor under your machine can become warped or uneven. If this happens, your washer may not drain effectively. To fix the problem, you will need to bring in a qualified technician to make adjustments that will prevent the machine from shifting during the wash cycle.


    Do you use liquid fabric softener? Many of these products have a waxy base that can cause them to stick to the outer tub. As a result, you might want to switch to sheets designed for the dryer. If you must use liquid, use the lowest recommended amount.


    Do you wash with cold water? Today, many fabric manufacturers recommend cold water washing. This helps to protect your clothes and make the colors last longer. When you combine this with new eco-friendly detergents and cleaners, you don’t always get the bacteria and mold-blasting power of things like hot water and bleach.


    Troubleshooting ideas you can perform when your washer smells like mold


    A washer that smells like mold does seem quite troubling. Even worse, the smell can permeate your entire house. Here are some tips for what you can do to eliminate the odor and help prevent it from reoccurring.


    Wipe down the door and gasket after each use. When you can’t keep the door open, this is a good substitute for allowing the area to dry and prevent mold growth. Create a mixture using vinegar, water, tea tree, and lemongrass oils. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution to the washer door and under and around the rubber fold. Let it sit for several minutes then scrub off the mold and wipe the area clean with a damp rag.


    Check the soap dispenser. If you can’t remember your last time (or ever) cleaning this area, now is the time. There is likely months’ or years’ worth of soap scum and mold built up around it. The dispenser can be removed easily, allowing you to clean it with warm water. Then, just wipe down the area around it and replace it. From start to finish, it should only take a few minutes to do this.


    Brush off loose mold spores from fabric. This is especially important if you have left clothes in the washer too long. Wash the clothes again in the hottest setting they can stand, using non-chlorine bleach if possible.


    Clean the washer tub with vinegar and tea tree oil. These items are easily found at most supermarkets and drug stores. Pour the mixture into the bleach dispenser and run the Tub Clean cycle. This is a time-tested, natural remedy that will have your washer smelling fresh and will kill all the mold and bacteria lurking in there. If your washer does not have a Tub Clean cycle, you can also run an empty wash cycle using hot water, adding either a cup of bleach, baking soda, or powdered dishwashing detergent directly into the wash tub.


    Purchase retail products designed to help when your washer smells like mold. You can find numerous products at home improvement stores with chemicals and other ingredients that will clean and deodorize the inside of your washing machine.


    Develop a regular maintenance schedule. You can’t just perform these tasks once and forget about them. To prevent your washer from smelling like mold in the future, you must clean it periodically. Experts recommend cleaning your machine and running the Tub Clean cycle at least once a month.


    When possible, leave the washer door open for a while after completing a load. Depending on where your washer is located and whether you have small children or pets this might not be feasible. However, if you can you should try to keep the door open to let the hot air escape and prevent your washer from becoming a paradise for mold growth.


    Try changing your laundry detergent. If you have a high-efficiency washer, it’s essential that you use an HE detergent. These machines use less water than their traditional counterparts and without the special detergent; your washer will have to run longer to rinse all the soap out. This means more moisture or soapy residue which may produce more molds.


    Contact a qualified appliance repair company for assistance and advice. These companies typically work on all types of washing machines and brands and they’ve seen it all. As a result, they can help you with both minor and major issues, such as when your washer smells like mold.

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