Refrigerators
Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling?
The most common reasons a fridge stops cooling, what you can check in five minutes, and when it's time to call a pro.
Read the guide →
Appliance Tips From Local Technicians
Appliance Repair Tips and Guides
Our technicians fix appliances across Pacifica and the Peninsula every day. These guides share what we've learned: the common causes behind breakdowns, the safe checks you can do yourself, and the signs it's time to call for same-day or emergency help.
Browse by Topic
All Appliance Guides
Each guide is written in plain language, with quick checks first and clear signs for when a professional should take over.
Refrigerators
Cooling problems, leaks and door seals.
Refrigerators
Signs Your Sub-Zero Door Gasket Needs Replacing
A worn gasket quietly makes a built-in fridge work harder. Learn the warning signs and simple tests.
Read the guide →Laundry
Washers that won't spin, dryers that won't heat, and vent safety.
Laundry
Why Won't My Dryer Heat?
Gas or electric, a cold dryer usually comes down to a few parts. Here's how to narrow it down safely.
Read the guide →Laundry
Washer Not Spinning: What to Check
Wet, heavy clothes at the end of a cycle? These checks find the cause on top-load and front-load washers.
Read the guide →Laundry
How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent?
The right schedule for your home, the warning signs you're overdue, and what you can safely do yourself.
Read the guide →Kitchen
Dishwashers and the drains they share.
Kitchen
Dishwasher Not Draining: Causes and Fixes
Standing water in the tub? Walk through the filter, air gap, disposal and pump in the right order.
Read the guide →Coastal Living and Buying Advice
How the coast affects appliances, and when a repair is worth it.
Coastal Living
How Salt Air and Fog Damage Your Appliances
Living by the ocean is wonderful, but fog and salt air wear appliances in specific ways. Here's how to fight back.
Read the guide →Buying Advice
Repair or Replace? Using the 50% Rule
A simple rule, real lifespans and a few exceptions to help you decide whether a broken appliance is worth fixing.
Read the guide →
Why We Write These
Honest Advice From People Who Fix Appliances
We'd rather you call us for the repairs that truly need a technician, not for a tripped breaker or a clogged filter. That's why these guides start with the simple checks you can do safely at home.
- Plain language. No jargon, just clear steps.
- Safety first. We tell you when to stop and call a pro, especially with gas and high voltage.
- Local focus. Pacifica's fog and salt air change how appliances wear, so our tips reflect that.
- Real experience. Every guide is based on the repairs we make most often.
Want to know more about who's behind these tips? Visit our about us page.
Quick Reference
A Simple Appliance Care Schedule
Most breakdowns start small. A few minutes of care each month can prevent many of the repairs we see.
Coastal homes
Near the ocean, salt and fog speed up wear. Pair these habits with a yearly appliance maintenance visit.
Care Schedule at a Glance
| How Often | Task | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Every load | Clean the dryer lint screen | Dryer vent guide |
| Monthly | Clean the dishwasher filter | Dishwasher draining guide |
| Monthly | Wipe fridge and freezer door seals | Door gasket guide |
| Twice a year | Vacuum refrigerator condenser coils | Fridge cooling guide |
| Yearly | Clean the full dryer vent line | Dryer vent guide |
| Yearly | Check for rust and worn seals near the coast | Coastal care guide |
When a Guide Isn't Enough
Some Problems Need a Technician Right Away
Our guides help with simple checks, but stop and call for help if you see any of these.
Gas Smell
Leave the home and call PG&E or 911 from outside. Don't use switches or flames.
Water Spreading
Shut off the water to the appliance and cut the power if it's safe.
Sparks or Burning Smell
Turn the appliance off at the breaker and call (650) 491-1179. See our emergency appliance repair page.
Rather Have a Pro Take a Look?
If the quick checks didn't solve it, our local team can help, often the same day. Call now or send us a message. You can also browse our services, the brands we repair, our service areas, or head back to the homepage.