How to Inspect a Non-Working Appliance Safely

In an age when consumers routinely replace major appliances, rather than have them repaired, you can save a bucket of money by reversing the trend. Inspecting your appliance to determine why it isn't working can save you from purchasing a big-ticket item like refrigerators and washers. Maybe your appliance isn't ruined and only needs a small part to keep working. By inspecting it yourself, you can make this determination.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Unplug your appliance. Just because it isn't working doesn't necessarily mean it is not full of electricity, which can lead to electrical shock or serious injury. Your appliance will be safe to pull apart and inspect once it is disabled.

2. Inspect your appliance based on what type of appliance it is. You can't inspect a garage door opener the same way you would a dishwasher. Your owner's manual should have detailed instructions on properly inspecting your appliance safely.

3. Follow all instructions, even if there appear to be obvious shortcuts, which could make the inspections quicker and easier. Generally, experts who know the correct way of inspecting write these texts.

4. Investigate problems that don't seem related to your non-functioning appliance if your first inspection doesn't get the results you wanted. These are complicated machines and people who do not professionally fix them may not clearly see the easiest way to repair a problem.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow all safety advice when inspecting appliances. Several have dangerous elements that must be dealt with carefully.