Washing machine repair?
-S emails:
Was wondering if you had somebody to recommend for repairing a washer. Mine is trying to commit suicide ... (Alternatively, if you bought one recently, and would recommend a brand). Thank you.
As with any sort of question like this, we're awarding bonus points for a line or two about why you're recommending that person or company.
So, got a suggestion for -S and his washer? Please share!
Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Good place to shop for appliances?
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Comments
Call the brand's customer service line. They normally will provide you with certified repair shops. If you're looking for a replacement, I've always had good luck with Maytag front loaders - like the Neptune.
... said ace on Feb 20, 2015 at 4:01 PM | link
Try Bob's in Delmar. Have used him couple times. Prompt, reasonable price, fixed right the first time.
... said Elwin McNamara on Feb 20, 2015 at 4:31 PM | link
Joe Flis in Rotterdam. He has been repairing my parents appliances for years. In the past decade he has taken care of my fridge and dryer. He is prompt and reasonably priced. What I appreciate is his honest and expert opinion on repair or replace.
... said Laura on Feb 21, 2015 at 6:38 AM | link
Gary Cornwell from Cornwell Appliance on Central Ave in Colonie. He fixed my washer and dryer back in the lean years. Always pleasant, easy to schedule with him, and reasonable cost.
... said capgirl on Feb 24, 2015 at 10:04 AM | link
Years ago washing machines were strictly mechanical and worth fixing to get decades of use from them. I bought a second hand washing machine once and between the two owners the thing worked for 30 years. Now you are lucky if your expensive computerized washing machine lasts for 5 years (like any computer). I was told this by a repair guy. I am loath to buy extended warranties for appliances (which is simply industry's admission that they now make crap that will need to be fixed). But the cost of fixing these new appliances is often not worth it. I hope you have better luck fixing yours. I gave up on the last two Sears washing machines I bought that lasted 5 and 2 years respectively.
... said chrisck on Feb 24, 2015 at 11:31 AM | link
Maytag, Kenmore, & Whirlpool are best. If you're quasi-handi, look up youtube for basic repairs. There isn't much to these machines, especially the older, non-digital models. My electric washer and dryer are almost as old as me. I just changed the motor on the dryer (done in less than an hour, ordered parts on Amazon) here's to hoping it lasts another 20 years!
... said Fox on Feb 24, 2015 at 2:25 PM | link
It will probably cost $150+ just to get someone to come to your house. If you can't figure out and fix the problem using google and youtube, it might be better to put that towards a new washer.
... said Ron on Feb 24, 2015 at 3:11 PM | link
Thanks for the input. In the interest of time, here is how to contact the contractors mentioned above (as of February 2015):
224 Central Ave., Albany, NY — (518) 439-0912 or (518) 361-7951
2789 Hamburg St., Rotterdam, NY — (518) 355-1313 or (518) 355-8081
(charges about $45 to come to Albany)
1357 Central Ave., Albany, NY — (518) 459-3700
(charges $65 to show up)
I called all of them at 9am today (Wednesday). I couldn't reach Bob's Appliance. Cornwell would have been able to show up on Friday, but we kind enough to point out possible quick solutions. Joe Flis was around Albany today and fixed my problem in the afternoon. It was deceptively simple, yet elusive -- a few screws not making contact anymore. He charged me $125, including about $45 to show up and $20 in hardware -- fair to me, since the washer is fine otherwise and I'd rather not add to our beautiful landfill.
Again, thanks for the help.
... said -S on Feb 25, 2015 at 5:12 PM | link