You Won’t Experience Gas Leaks and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Gas ovens have complex connections that ensure the gas flows safely. Certified technicians have the training to handle these connections and check for gas leaks. Without this knowledge, you may create (or not notice) a gas leak, which could then lead to an explosion.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large amounts. If your malfunctioning oven is leaking carbon monoxide, it can seep into your home and cause health risks. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. If inhaled in large amounts, it can be deadly. A certified technician can fix your oven and ensure your oven isn’t leaking dangerous gases into your home.

You Can Avoid Electrical Fires and Shocks

Ovens have intricate electrical systems, and certified technicians know how to disconnect and reconnect the power sources safely without getting an electrical shock. If you try to fix your oven, you may end up exposing live wires. This can result in serious injuries.

Moreover, if you repair your oven incorrectly, it may short circuit. This may damage your oven permanently and possibly cause an electrical fire. Certified technicians follow specific protocols when working with electrical connections. Their training minimizes the risk of electrical fires.

You Get to Keep Your Warranty Coverage

When you repair your oven yourself, you risk voiding your warranty. Many ovens come with manufacturer warranties that cover repairs and replacements for a specific period. However, these warranties state that only certified technicians can perform repairs. By hiring a certified technician, you’ll keep your warranty coverage.

In order for technicians to be certified, they must undergo extensive training. This gives them the skills to repair a variety of oven brands, such as Samsung, Kenmore, and GE. They also use genuine parts that are designed for the oven models they service. This attention to quality assurance keeps your warranty valid and ensures you’re getting high-quality repair services.

A Professional Will Bring the Right Tools

If you don’t have years of repair work under your belt, you may not have the right tools when it comes time to fix your oven. Certified technicians use specialized multimeters, gas leak detectors, and circuit testers. These tools allow them to perform efficient repairs.

Using the wrong tools can damage some of the delicate components found in ovens. Certified technicians have the right tools and can ensure that each component is handled properly.

You’ll Get a Professional Diagnosis

Finally, if you attempt a DIY job, you may fix the immediate problem but not the underlying issue that caused the problem. When certified technicians repair your oven, they can point out any other problems that you may have missed. These could be gas leaks, component failures, or electrical issues.

Certified technicians can also perform a safety check before signing off, making sure that everything is functioning correctly. They will inspect the ventilation systems, the gas shutoff valves, and the electrical components. They can also make sure that your oven complies with local safety and building codes.

Hiring a certified technician will ensure your oven works the way it should. For reliable oven repair services in Sterling Heights, MI, contact our team at AJ’s Appliance Repair.

The post Benefits of Hiring Certified Technicians to Fix Your Oven appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

1. Leaking Water

Washing machines can leak for various reasons, including damaged door seals, cracked hoses, or worn-out pumps. Some issues, like damaged door seals or cracked hoses, can be identified with a simple visual inspection. Hoses in particular are notorious for causing leaks when they become loose or wear out, especially if it has been more than five years since that hose was replaced.

2. Unusual Noises

You’re probably familiar with how your machine normally sounds when it’s turned on. If your machine sounds different or louder than usual, it can be a sign that something is wrong. New and unusual noises could be due to an unbalanced load, loose drum bearings, or objects caught in the drum or pump. Unbalanced loads can be remedied by consciously arranging your laundry evenly around the drum every time you load your machine. However, loose drum bearings or foreign objects may require a professional to inspect and fix the issue before it can cause more damage to the machine.

3. Shaking

Excessive shaking during the spin cycle can also be caused by an unbalanced load. If your load is already balanced, your unit may not be level, or it may be experiencing a failure with its shock absorbers. First, check that your washing machine is level on the ground and adjust its feet if necessary. If the problem continues, the shock absorbers that stabilize the drum might be worn-out and need replacing, which will require the expertise of a professional technician.

4. Unpleasant Odors

A washing machine should leave your clothes smelling fresh, not musty or moldy. Strange odors often result from mold or mildew buildup in the drum, door seal, or detergent drawer. This can happen if the machine is not drying out properly between uses. It can also happen if you’re using too much detergent, which can leave residue on the inside of your machine. To combat this, regularly clean the drum and door seal with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, and leave the door open after each wash to let the interior dry out. Running a hot water cycle with a specially formulated washing machine cleaner can also help.

Washing machines aren’t cheap, so most people want them to be operational for as long as possible. By paying attention to these signs and addressing them promptly, you can ensure that your washing machine continues to serve your household efficiently. For professional washer and dryer services, contact our team of experts at AJ’s Appliance Repair in Sterling Heights, MI.

The post Does Your Washing Machine Need Servicing? Don’t Ignore These 4 Signs appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Use Only Dishwasher Detergent

This seems trivial, but if you want your dishwasher to last as long as it should, you must only use a detergent made for it. Do not use laundry detergent or any sort of liquid soap for the body or for hand-washing dishes. They not only don’t clean dishes well but also cause floods of suds that need to be cleaned up.




Keep the Filter Clean

A dishwasher works better with a clean filter. Some food residue is bound to stick to the filter, and it should be cleaned by hand with soap and warm water about every month. If you use your dishwasher often, you may need to clean it more than this. One sign that the filter needs cleaning is that your dishes stop looking and feeling as clean as usual. You’ll also notice an odor from a dirty filter.




Wash Only Full Loads

Running the dishwasher when it’s not full wastes hot water, raises your energy bill, and puts stress on the dishwasher. On the other hand, don’t overload your dishwasher. Overloading makes it hard for all of the dishes to be cleaned, and that means you’ll have to put them back in the dishwasher. Again, this wastes water and energy and can lower the dishwasher’s lifespan. The idea is to put as many dishes in the dishwasher as you can without any of them touching.

Don’t Use the Hottest Cycle

Even though you may be tempted to use the dishwasher’s hottest cycle if your dishes are really grungy, don’t. Very hot water runs up your energy bill and can actually break delicate glassware. An ideal temperature for your dishwasher is about 130 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. That should dissolve any gunk on your dishes. Very few household dishwashers need to be hot enough to sterilize dishware or cooking ware.




Keep the Gasket Clean

A clean gasket is watertight, which is crucial to keeping water from leaking on your kitchen floor. A dirty gasket is also a breeding ground for pathogens. It’s a good idea to clean the gasket when you clean your filter. Once again, white vinegar is the ideal cleaning product. Use about a third of a cup of vinegar to two-thirds cup of lukewarm water.




Call Our Appliance Repair Specialists for More Information

Your dishwasher has become one of the most needed appliances in your kitchen, and good maintenance will keep it working for a decade or longer. If you need troubleshooting or dishwasher repair, call our professionals at AJ’s Appliance Repair of Sterling Heights, Michigan.

The post Things to Do to Prevent Dishwasher Problems appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

1. Cook Meals With Small Appliances

Summer is the best time to use countertop appliances because they generate less heat. If you don’t have one, now is the time to buy one. Cook, bake, and broil in the air fryer, electric griddle, slow cooker, toaster oven, pressure cooker, countertop convection oven, waffle maker, or rice cooker. The blender can make soups, sauces, dips, and smoothies, and the microwave can heat TV dinners and a few food items.

2. Cook Outside

Cook meals outside in the summer using your outdoor kitchen. Use your indoor kitchen on rainy or cool days. If you don’t have one, use your grill or smoker. Grills are well-known for cooking meats but can also cook pizzas, vegetables, fruits, and desserts. Bring a cast-iron skillet or pot to cook more dishes on the grill. Pizza ovens and camping stoves are also great appliances for outdoor cooking.

3. Use the Stovetop or Cooking Range

Stove ovens have a range above the oven. In some kitchens, ovens and cooking ranges are in separate locations. While stovetops and cooking ranges produce heat, they won’t generate tons of it. To help food cook faster and produce less heat, cook them with the lid covered. Use the range hood vents or open a window to remove smoke and heat so it doesn’t linger.

4. Add No-Cook Meals to Your Routine

The only solution that’s heat-free is no-cook meals. Various cooking websites and blogs share sandwich, wrap, salad, coleslaw, and one-bowl recipes, so research them and choose the ones you like. You could also eat no-cook tacos and homemade sushi. In addition, lean on grab-and-go foods, fruits, carrots, and watermelons as snacks.

5. Cook in Bulk

If you must use the oven, cook tons of food. You’ll have some for today and leftovers for the next few days. Try to do this early in the morning while it’s cool or in the evening after the sun sets. When you heat leftovers, use the microwave, toaster oven, air fryer, or countertop convection oven. You can reheat leftovers on the stovetop or cooking range, but put a lid on top. Ventilate the house with a range hood or window during and after cooking.

There’s no reason to change what you eat in the summer just because it’s hot. By changing the appliance or location, you can cook tons of meals. Give your oven a break. An appliance technician can prep your microwave and cooktop for summer and the oven for autumn. Contact AJ’s Appliance Repair for more information on stove, oven, and microwave repair services in Sterling Heights, MI.

The post Five Ways to Cook Meals This Summer Without Using the Oven appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Don’t Overcrowd

Cramming items into the fridge hampers the flow of cold air. The result is places where food shouldn’t be frozen ends up freezing, while other places the food isn’t kept cool enough and spoils. The ideal goal is to keep the refrigerator about three-quarters full.

Store Food the Right Way

Besides simple overcrowding, there’s a right way to store food. Place fruits and vegetables in crisper drawers. If the fridge has a meat bin, store meats in there so that their juices don’t contaminate other foods. If the bin is full, store meat on a plate or shallow bowl even if it’s still in its package. This also keeps any juices from seeping into other foods.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Most refrigerators have condenser coils either on the bottom of the appliance or on the back. It’s important to keep the coils cleaned because they vent the heat. Condenser coils that are clogged with dirt and dust aren’t as efficient and can even cause heat to be trapped inside the fridge. They should be either vacuumed or cleaned with a condenser coil brush now and then.

Set the Right Temperature

The inside of the fridge should be between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. If the air is too warm, food spoils, and if it’s too cold, food that shouldn’t be frozen freezes. Temperatures that are too low also make the refrigerator work too hard. Use a thermometer made for refrigerators to make sure the interior is at the right temperature.

Close the Door and Keep It Closed

Obviously, keeping the refrigerator door open causes warm air to rush in. This not only lowers the temperature and puts food at risk of spoilage, but it also makes the refrigerator work harder. This leads to higher energy bills, and the refrigerator is one of the most energy-consuming appliances in your home.

Let Food Cool Before Putting It in the Fridge

Putting food that’s still hot from the stove or oven inside the fridge immediately makes the temperature rise. This can compromise other items that need to be kept cold and make the fridge work too hard. Wait until the food has cooled down before putting it in the refrigerator.

Call Us to Learn More About Your Fridge

Basically, mishaps that make your fridge work harder than it should need to be avoided. To learn more about tips for refrigerators and freezers, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the professionals at AJ’s Appliance Repair in Sterling Heights, MI.

The post Avoid These Mishaps That Shorten Your Fridge’s Life appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

The Dishwasher Doesn’t Clean Your Dishes

When the dishwasher doesn’t do its main job, the culprit can be one of a few things. It’s possible that the appliance just isn’t completing its cycle or that detergent isn’t being released. Other things that can cause the dishwasher to not wash include an incorrect temperature or debris clogging the spray arms. Another cause is that there are too many dishes in the dishwasher, or they haven’t been stacked correctly.

The Dishwasher Doesn’t Drain

This very common problem is most likely caused by the drain filter being clogged, the drain pump failing, or leaks in the hoses or pipes. If the dishwasher and your garbage disposal share the same drain, the problem may originate with the garbage disposal. A professional will be able to discern and fix this.

The Appliance Leaks

Leaks in your dishwasher may be the fault of damaged door gaskets that stop the appliance from sealing completely. Another reason for leaks may be the float switch. This device determines the amount of water that enters the appliance. If it’s malfunctioning, it may allow too much water to get in and cause a leak.

The Dishwasher Doesn’t Start

If your dishwasher doesn’t start at all, check to make sure that it’s plugged in. If it is, check the circuit breaker to see if it’s getting power. Other reasons for the appliance not turning on are a faulty door latch or a broken motor. If it’s the latter, repairing it is a job for a professional.

The Appliance Doesn’t Dry Your Dishes

The dishwasher is not only supposed to wash your dishes but to dry them as well. If it doesn’t, it might be because the door isn’t sealed tightly enough to keep in the heat that’s needed to dry the dishes. The drying cycle may not be enabled, or the appliance’s rinse aid may not be working. The dishwasher’s heating element may also be broken.

The Appliance Is Very Noisy

Many things could be the cause of a noisy dishwasher. The spray arms may be loose, bearings or seals may be worn, or there may be a problem with the latch, the pump, or the motor.

Your Local Experts on Dishwasher Troubleshooting and Repair

Your dishwasher is one of your most important appliances. When it’s not working as it should, don’t hesitate to call on our experienced and skilled professionals at AJ’s Appliance Repair for dishwasher repair in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

The post What Are Some of the Most Common Dishwasher Problems? appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Deep Clean Your Oven Regularly

You should give your oven a deep cleaning at least twice a year. If your oven is used daily, it is better to deep clean it every few months. The last thing you want is burnt food impacting the operation of your oven and the taste of each meal.

Unplug Your Oven Before Cleaning

While it is okay to keep your oven plugged in while quickly wiping down the stovetop or glass window, it must be unplugged before you start cleaning the inside or the entire appliance. Leaving an electrical appliance plugged in while dealing with excessive water and liquid cleaners can lead to electrocution.

Remember to Clean the Racks

Your food goes through the racks to reach the bottom of your oven, and this causes particles such as burnt crumbs or melted cheese to accumulate on the racks. Your racks need to be regularly cleaned to remove the built-up burnt and melted food particles.

Check Before Removing the Knobs

With some ovens, the knobs cannot be removed because they are connected to the main control system. Attempting to remove the knobs on these ovens increases your risk of electrocution. Therefore, you need to check the manual to ensure the knobs can be removed before you start cleaning.

Inspect an Electric Stove’s Element Burners

If you own an electric stove, inspect the inside stovetop and inside of the oven to ensure the element burners are in good condition. Filthy burners should be cleaned, removing everything from burnt to melted pieces. However, damaged burners must be replaced immediately.

Inspect the Oven Door’s Gasket

Inspecting and replacing the door’s gasket is an important part of maintaining your oven. The gasket is the rubber piece that runs along the oven door, and it is designed to trap heat. When your gasket wears down, your oven does not work smoothly because heat is leaking out.

Inspect Your Oven’s Gas Line

The oven’s gas line, or electrical cord for an electric oven, must be inspected at least once a year to ensure it is in good condition. A gas line or an electrical cord that is worn down must be replaced immediately to keep the oven working properly.

Clean the Range Hood Filter

The range hood and fan should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. You can clean the filter by soaking it in a large container of water, dish detergent, and baking soda. Rinse and thoroughly dry the filter before replacing it. In addition, you want to clean behind the range at least twice a year.

Clean Around Your Oven

It is not uncommon for crumbs and other debris to accumulate around your oven, and these elements can block airflow and even increase the risk of a fire. This is why you need to take the time to clean around and under your oven.

Even with proper maintenance, there may come a time when a professional needs to inspect and repair your oven. If you are looking for high-quality repairs for stoves and ovens in Sterling Heights, MI, then contact AJ’s Appliance Repair to schedule an appointment.

The post How to Keep up With Your Oven Maintenance at Home appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Clean the Inside

Do you have clothes that come out of the dryer with strange stains on them? This can happen because the dryer itself is stained. The metal walls might have dark marks on them caused by markers and other items that were in your pockets. There are a few different ways to clean the inside. Unplug the dryer before you begin. Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth to wipe down the walls. If you don’t have alcohol, use soapy water. Make sure you remove any residue before you use the dryer again.

Inspect the Air Vent

To prevent overheating, dryers have air vents that move hot air outside. You’ll usually find this vent close to the ground and near your utility room or the room where you use the dryer. Bundle up before you head outside to inspect it. Look for anything that blocks the vent or keeps the hot air from escaping. This includes lint, old leaves, trash, and even animal nests. Many small animals build nests inside air vents to take advantage of the warmth.

Add More Space

The more you use your dryer, the more it moves on its own. Even if you take time to ensure the area around it is clear, it can shimmy and move from its original position. This can also happen when you put too much stuff in the dryer. Winter maintenance includes adding more space around the dryer. You can either move it to a new spot or push it back to its original position. Now is also a good time to vacuum under and around the dryer.

Balance Your Dryer

If you have a dryer that shakes or makes a lot of noise when it runs, it’s likely off balance. As it rocks and shakes, it puts more pressure on some of the internal parts, which will wear them down faster. To avoid costly repairs, use the legs on the bottom of the dryer to balance it. You may need to adjust one leg or all four to give the dryer the stability it needs.

Why wait until spring or even summer to take care of your dryer when you can do it in the middle of winter? The maintenance steps you should take include adding more space, cleaning and balancing it, and inspecting the air vent. You can also turn the job over to our professionals at AJ’s Appliance Repair in Sterling Heights, MI when you call for washer and dryer services.

The post 4 Easy Ways to Maintain Your Dryer in Winter appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Clean the Coils

The condenser coils on your fridge are located on the back or underneath your fridge, and they are responsible for ensuring the interior of your fridge remains cool. If you don’t clean the coils, they can collect dirt and debris, which ultimately reduces their efficiency. In addition, if the coils are dirty, they won’t be able to release any heat and will, as a result, overheat. They will also suffer more wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of your refrigerator. About twice a year, unplug your fridge and vacuum the coils.

Temperature Control

Most refrigerators are designed to work efficiently within a specific temperature range. If you set it below or above this temperature range, you may be forcing your fridge to overwork. If you set the temperature too low, you may also cause ice buildup. If you set the temperature too high, the fridge may have trouble keeping your food chilled, which can lead to your food spoiling faster.

Maintain Your Door Seals

Make sure to routinely check the seals on your door. Clean the seals so there isn’t any food or drink residue, and check to see if there are cracks. Sticky leftovers can prevent your fridge from sealing properly, and cracks prevent the fridge from adequately cooling the interior. When the door doesn’t seal correctly, warm air enters your fridge, and cool air escapes from it. This causes the fridge to overwork as it tries to maintain the set temperature. This long-term strain can reduce your refrigerator’s lifespan.

Don’t Block the Air Vents

Your refrigerator’s cooling system can only work efficiently if the air vents aren’t blocked. If you block them, you’re preventing proper air circulation and thus preventing the refrigerator from effectively maintaining the proper temperature. Proper airflow is also essential for maintaining the right humidity levels. When you block the air vents, there may be frost buildup and excess moisture in your fridge.

Defrost Your Fridge Regularly

If your fridge has an automatic defrost feature, make sure that it works. If it doesn’t, you should defrost your fridge regularly to get rid of any ice buildup. Too much ice can force your fridge to overwork, and ice buildup can trap odors and bacteria. By cleaning and defrosting your fridge regularly, you’re putting less strain on its defrost feature.

Our Technicians

Even though you maintain your fridge regularly, it may still break down. If you need refrigerator or freezer repair services in Sterling Heights, MI, contact our team at AJ’s Appliance Repair & HVAC.

The post How Caring for Your Fridge Can Extend Its Lifespan appeared first on AJ’s Appliance Repair.

Microwave Style

Think about what type of microwave would suit you best. If you’re replacing a built-in microwave or an over-the-range unit, you’ll probably want to stick with the type of microwave you’ve already had. This way, it can fit perfectly. Some other kitchens are good candidates for other types of microwaves, like ones that go under counters or those placed on top of counters. Countertop units may be the most straightforward option since they don’t require any special installation. When making your decision, think about what location would be the easiest to access. If mobility might be an issue, it could be a better idea to place your microwave on or underneath a countertop rather than higher up.

Size

The location of the microwave could affect your size limitations. However, you still have options when designing a new kitchen. Some microwaves are fairly short but wide, and they could work for many situations. However, if you plan on putting larger items in the microwave, you’ll need something taller.

Wattage

Microwaves come with different wattages. Wattage refers to the amount of power that the unit uses to heat food. A microwave oven that uses between 600 to 800 watts would be ideal for heating small dishes. In contrast, a microwave with 800 to 1,000 watts could do a better job of heating larger dishes and even defrosting items. Microwaves with more than 1,000 watts are very powerful and offer more versatility. If you plan on cooking vegetables or potatoes, for example, in the microwave for the holidays, you’re probably going to be better off with a microwave that uses at least 1,000 watts.

Special Features

A microwave could be more helpful during the holidays if it has special features. A convection microwave can double as a convection oven, which can come in handy when you have multiple dishes to prepare during large gatherings. These units have heating elements and fans that work together to circulate hot air, allowing you to bake and roast food. With this kind of microwave, you can roast a chicken, bake a cake, or cook a lasagna or a casserole while your oven works on other dishes.

Additionally, microwaves can be set up with pre-set cooking times, inverters that let them heat food more gently, grilling elements, and steaming options. Some modern units even have sensors that let them adjust cooking time and power level according to the steam being released from food. When you have so much going on during the holidays, it can be nice to let your microwave handle more responsibilities.

A Useful Appliance

A microwave can be useful, especially if you choose one that has multiple functions. If you need help picking out or maintaining a microwave in Sterling Heights, MI, you can turn to the team at AJ’s Appliance Repair & HVAC.

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