Everyday Appliance Faults: Safe Checks Before You Call a Technician

When an appliance stops working, a few minutes of safe checking can sometimes solve the problem, and will always give a technician better information. This guide covers checks for four common appliances. Every step is safe for a householder: no panels, no tools, no wiring.

Checks that apply to every appliance

1. Is it getting power? Check the plug, the socket and the switch. Try a different appliance, such as a lamp, in the same socket.
2. Has the breaker tripped? Reset it once. If it trips again, leave it off and call.
3. Is it a settings problem? Check modes, timers, child locks and temperature settings.
4. Is there an error code? Write it down and look it up in the manual.
5. Has anything changed? A power cut, a move, a spill or a recent repair can all matter.
6. Check the manual. Many have a troubleshooting section that is specific to your model.

Air conditioner

• Is the remote set to cool, with a low enough target?
• Are the filters clean?
• Is the outdoor unit running and free of obstruction?
• Is there ice or water leakage?

If it still does not cool, see AC running but not cooling.

Refrigerator

• Is the temperature setting where it should be?
• Does the door close properly, and are the seals clean?
• Are vents inside clear, and is there ventilation around the fridge?
• Is there frost, or water on the floor?

See fridge stopped cooling: what to do first.

Washing machine

• Is the door or lid fully closed?
• Are the taps on, and is the inlet hose free of kinks?
• Is the load balanced and not too large?
• Is the drain filter clear? Follow the manual and place a towel and shallow tray first.

Electric stove

• Does the burner or oven light and heat when you turn it on?
• Are the controls set correctly, with no child lock engaged?
• Is the isolator switch on?
• Is the cookware flat and the right type for the hob?

Stop and call if you notice

What information to gather

Before calling, note the brand, model, age, what the fault is, when it started and what you have tried. Take photos of the model label and a short video of the symptoms. See how appliance problems vary across Bahrain.

Book a repair

If the checks do not solve it, we can help with AC repair, refrigerator repair, washing machine repair and electric stove repair. A yearly routine from our annual care checklist helps prevent many faults.

Frequently asked questions