Power surges are more common than most homeowners realize—and they can wreak havoc on your appliances. Whether it’s from a lightning storm, a utility grid switch, or a malfunctioning transformer, a sudden spike in voltage can fry sensitive electronics inside everything from your refrigerator to your washing machine.

How Power Surges Damage Your Appliances

Modern appliances are smarter and more efficient than ever—but that comes with a downside. Most are packed with digital displays, control boards, and microprocessors that are highly sensitive to even small fluctuations in voltage. A single surge can cause irreparable damage to these components, leaving you with costly repair or replacement bills.

Common culprits behind power surges include:

• Lightning strikes, especially during summer storms
• Sudden restoration of power after an outage
• Issues from the utility company (grid switching or line maintenance)
• Large appliances cycling on and off, like HVAC systems or air conditioners

Use Surge Protectors to Shield Your Electronics

For small kitchen appliances and entertainment systems, plug-in surge protectors offer a basic level of defense. Not all power strips are created equal, so be sure to choose one that specifically mentions “surge protection” and has a joule rating of at least 1000 for adequate coverage.

While these can help, they’re not designed to protect major appliances like washers, dryers, ovens, or refrigerators—those need something more robust.

Whole-Home Surge Protection: A Smarter Solution

If you’re serious about protecting all your appliances, consider a whole-home surge protector. These are hardwired directly into your electrical panel and provide a first line of defense against external and internal surges. While the upfront cost is higher, it’s a small price to pay compared to replacing a fridge, stove, or dishwasher.

Better still, many homeowners insurance policies may offer discounts for having a surge protection system installed—another good reason to make the investment.

Need Appliance Repairs After a Surge?

If you suspect a surge has damaged one of your appliances, don’t wait. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout East Dover and Morris County since 1962. We’re fully licensed and insured, and we also sell appliance parts if you’re tackling a repair yourself. Our skilled technicians can diagnose the issue and get your appliances back in working order fast.

Don’t leave your appliances vulnerable. Take surge protection seriously—and if the damage is already done, give us a call today for fast, professional appliance repair service.

Choosing between gas and electric appliances is a major decision for homeowners—especially when it comes to key items like stoves and dryers. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we’ve serviced thousands of appliances since 1962, and we’ve seen firsthand how the right choice can depend on your cooking habits, energy costs, and installation setup. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each type to help you decide what’s right for your home.

Stoves: Control vs. Convenience

Gas Stoves

• Pros: Gas stoves offer precise heat control and instant flame, making them a favorite among home chefs.
• Cons: Installation can be costly if your home doesn’t already have a gas line. You’ll also need good ventilation for safety.

Electric Stoves

• Pros: Electric models are easier to install and generally less expensive upfront. Smooth-top electric stoves are also easier to clean.
• Cons: They take longer to heat up and cool down, and you may find temperature control less responsive compared to gas.

Bottom Line: Serious cooks often prefer gas, but electric stoves offer a cleaner look, easier cleanup, and a simpler setup.

Dryers: Efficiency vs. Accessibility

Gas Dryers

• Pros: Gas dryers tend to heat up faster, which means they dry clothes more quickly and efficiently—saving you money over time.
• Cons: They require a gas hookup and professional installation, which adds to upfront costs.

Electric Dryers

• Pros: More affordable to purchase and install, especially in homes without existing gas lines. Just plug into a 240V outlet and you’re good to go.
• Cons: They typically take longer to dry clothes and may use more energy in the long run.

Bottom Line: If speed and energy savings are your top priorities, go with gas. But if you want a simpler and lower-cost option, electric is the way to go.

Safety, Cost & Energy Considerations

1. Safety: Electric appliances eliminate the risk of gas leaks and carbon monoxide, but gas appliances are perfectly safe with proper maintenance and ventilation.
2. Energy Costs: Gas models usually have lower operating costs, while electric appliances are often cheaper to buy and easier to install.
3. Environmental Impact: If your electricity comes from renewable sources, electric appliances can offer a greener option.

Every home is different, and so is every homeowner’s preference. Whether you’re replacing a broken unit or choosing appliances for a remodel, Morris County Appliance Repair is here to help you make the right call. We’ve been proudly serving East Dover and all of Morris County since 1962, offering expert repairs and honest advice you can trust.

If you notice a musty or moldy smell coming from your washing machine, you’re not alone! Over time, washers can develop mold and mildew growth that causes the machine to give off an unpleasant odor. Not only is this unappealing, but it can also damage washer components and affect the smell of clothing.

A proactive approach is the best way to prevent mold and mildew from growing in your washing machine. With a few easy actions, you can keep your washer smell-free.

Minimize Moisture

Mold and mildew are fungi that thrive in damp conditions. That’s why a washing machine is a prime environment for these pesky invaders. 

It might seem counterintuitive to keep your washing machine dry, but it’s easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to reduce excess moisture and prevent the spread of mold and mildew:

• Remove wet clothes promptly
• Leave the washer door or lid open when not in use
• Allow the detergent dispenser (if present) to dry between uses by opening and/or wiping it out
• Wipe the gasket (if present) to remove excess moisture between washes

If you make these steps part of your regular laundry routine, you’ll be on the right track to keep your washer fungus-free long-term. Your nose and your family will thank you!

Prioritize Proactive Cleaning

Mold and mildew can be present even before you notice any smell. To prevent these spores from gaining a foothold, it’s essential to clean your washing machine regularly.

While it might seem strange to wash your washer, it’s an important step! Try running a hot water wash with a cup of white vinegar once a month. This regular wash cycle will help destroy mold and mildew spores as well as dissolve any detergent residue. With regular cleaning, your washer should stay smelling fresh all month long.

If you need help tackling a moldy washer or assistance with washing machine repairs in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We are your go-to team for all your appliance repair needs. We work on tried and true favorites as well as high-end machines. Our expert team has over 50 years of combined experience, and we are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer care, and we’re here for you with both regular appointments and emergency service. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Unexpected refrigerator noises can be worrisome. Is there a problem? Does it need to be repaired? Is it on the fritz altogether?

While some noises are cause for alarm, others are simply a byproduct of regular operation. Here’s a look at which noises are a-ok, and which ones might need a professional evaluation.

Normal Refrigerator Noises

When a refrigerator is running, it must maintain a consistent interior temperature while also adjusting to the ambient temperature. As a fridge adapts its cooling process to the surrounding temperature, you may hear noises such as:

• Popping
• Cracking
• Gurgling
• Hissing
• Humming
• Buzzing

While hearing a “popping” noise from your fridge might be alarming, it’s most likely not anything to worry about. Temperature adjustments and cooling cycles can create sound through:

• Expanding and contracting plastic
• Fan operation
• Normal refrigerant flow

If any of these sounds significantly change in volume, intensity, or frequency, though, you may want to consider calling your local appliance repair professional to investigate. They’ll be able to determine if your fridge is still in “normal operation” mode, or if it requires service or repair.

Atypical Refrigerator Sounds

While some fridge noises are normal, others can signal a problem. It’s best to get these checked out as soon as possible to prevent or limit any damage and avoid any dangers to your household.

It can sometimes be hard to tell which fridge sounds to worry about and which to ignore, but there are some general guidelines to help you differentiate between the two categories. Worrisome refrigerator noises often include:

• Grinding
• Banging or knocking
• Rattling
• Clicking
• Loud buzzing
• High-pitched whining

Refrigerators are pretty straightforward for the user, but they have numerous internal components to ensure proper cooling and temperature maintenance. Sometimes, these components wear out, get obstructed by dust or debris, or become loose or unstable due to continuous operation or incorrect installation.

If you hear any of these unusual fridge noises, call your local appliance repair company for assistance. If left unaddressed, even a minor issue can quickly escalate into a major problem. 

A malfunctioning refrigerator can also be dangerous. If a fridge can’t maintain a stable temperature, food is likely to spoil, putting your family at risk of foodborne illnesses.

A compromised refrigerator can also pose a fire hazard. When one part of a refrigerator isn’t working correctly, other components typically have to work harder to compensate. This extra work can lead to various parts overheating, which can quickly create a fire hazard situation.

Leaking refrigerant is another danger to be aware of. Refrigerant is a toxic substance, and exposure can lead to nervous system damage, asphyxiation, and/or poisoning. Never try to clean up refrigerant on your own. Turn off and unplug the fridge if you can do so safely, and call an appliance repair professional right away.

If you suspect there’s a problem with your refrigerator, it’s better to be safe than sorry! An appliance repair specialist will be able to determine the cause of the noise that you hear and advise the appropriate action (if any is needed) to resolve it.

For appliance repair service in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today! Our team is fully licensed and insured, providing you with peace of mind. With over 50 years of combined experience, we’re here to solve any appliance issue you encounter. We service a wide range of appliance brands, from luxury models by Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele, to tried-and-true appliances from GE, Frigidaire, and Electrolux. Call us today for all of your appliance repair needs. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Once, smart appliances seemed like a thing of the future. Now, they’re becoming commonplace in homes worldwide. Deciding whether or not to invest in smart appliances is a personal decision. Here are some key elements to consider as you make that choice.

Upfront and Hidden Smart Appliance Costs

Smart appliances can be costly. Since they’re not yet the norm in the appliance industry, these cutting-edge machines tend to be expensive, with a limited range of cost differences between various models.

Before investing in one or more smart appliances, it’s essential to consider your financial situation. You might examine:

• If the full cost, including the price, taxes, delivery, and/or installation, is within your budget
• If you will have to make upgrades, buy additional equipment, or acquire new accessories

Smart appliances rely on a strong internet connection and should interface seamlessly with any existing smart home system. Before purchasing new smart appliances, determine if any updates are necessary and factor those expenses into your decision.

Long-Term Savings and Value

As the newest machines on the market, most smart appliances are more energy-efficient than traditional models. This increased efficiency can lead to substantial long-term savings through lower energy costs. For many individuals, these long-term savings offset the purchase cost, making smart appliances a worthwhile investment.

Installing smart appliances can also be a great way to “future-proof” your home. Given the overall trend towards smart technology and automation, smart appliances can prepare your home for the evolving tech landscape. While there’s no guarantee, having smart appliances already may also mean lower costs and less hassle when it comes to integrating new technology and smart home features as they become available.

Additionally, if you choose to sell your home with appliances included, having smart appliances can boost your home’s value. Smart appliances are a great way to set your property apart from the crowd in the real estate market.

Personal Compatibility

Smart appliances come with an impressive array of tools, allowing you to automate various functions and control them remotely. These features can help save you time and energy, making your day-to-day run more smoothly and with fewer interruptions.

That said, smart appliances and any smart home system function based on commands and parameters given by the end user. As with any new technology, smart appliances can present users with a steep learning curve.

First of all, new users must learn the features and functions of their new appliance (which can often be a challenge regardless of whether they purchase a smart or traditional model). Users also have to navigate either setting up a smart home system or integrating new smart appliances with an existing system.

If this sounds achievable and exciting, that’s fantastic. If it sounds daunting and stress-inducing, smart appliances may not be the right choice at the moment. 

If you live in Rockaway or the greater Morris County area, call Morris County Appliance Repair for all your smart appliance needs. Whether you need smart appliance repair or have questions about whether smart appliances are a good investment, our expert team is here to help. Together, we have over 50 years of combined experience, and every member of our crew pursues ongoing education to stay current on the latest appliance trends and technological advancements. We are licensed and insured to provide you with peace of mind, and we offer outstanding customer service along with expert appliance care. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Knowing when your oven needs repairs can be challenging. While some problems come with immediate danger signs, others may develop gradually. Here is a breakdown of five signs that signal the need for oven repair. Addressing oven problems early will help avoid danger and further damage to your oven.

Uneven Cooking

We trust our ovens to cook our food at the selected temperature. A faulty oven, however, may heat food unevenly. 

Uneven heating and cooking can be disastrous at mealtime, with some parts of your dishes coming out undercooked and others overcooked. In addition to being unappetizing, undercooked food can also pose health risks.

Various oven components impact temperature consistency, so it’s essential to consult an appliance expert to determine the precise cause. Possible culprits include:

• Heating elements
• The thermostat
• Temperature sensors

The cause of the issue will also depend on the make, model, and age of your oven. To avoid unpleasant meals and escalating damage to your oven, call in your local appliance repair team as soon as you first notice any temperature trouble.

Oven Door Malfunctions

A well-functioning oven door is critical. Oven doors feature a specialized seal around the edge that effectively retains the heat inside. If the oven door or the seal is damaged, heat can escape.

A faulty oven door can result in inconsistent internal temperatures and uneven heating. It can also pose a danger to nearby kitchen fixtures and people via heat damage.

Unusual Noises

Ideally, the only noises produced by your oven should come from the appliance controls. If you hear any other noises like buzzing, clicking, or pinging sounds, it’s time to call your local appliance repair company. 

Unusual oven noises typically mean that a component of the appliance is broken, disconnected, or malfunctioning. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse—call an appliance professional as soon as possible.

Atypical Smells

If you notice any unusual smells coming from your oven, you should stop using it and contact an oven repair expert. Unexpected smells can mean that the oven is heating something it shouldn’t.

If left unchecked, the root cause of strange oven smells can lead to significant damage to your appliance and pose major health risks to your family. The only scent your oven should produce should come from the food you cook. Anything else is cause for concern.

Display Error Codes

Newer ovens come equipped with digital displays that track cooking cycles, timing, and more. Many of them also display error codes when they detect a problem with the appliance.

Just as with the “check engine” message in a car, oven error codes and warnings should be investigated immediately. If you are positive that you understand the code and can successfully fix the issue, sorting it out yourself is a great option. If a code persists or you are unsure of how to address the problem, calling your local appliance repair team is the best course of action.

For oven repairs and other appliance repair assistance in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We have over 50 years of experience resolving appliance issues, and we deliver outstanding customer service on every call. In addition to rigorous training and on-the-job experience, our appliance repair technicians stay current with the latest appliance trends and features through ongoing education. We provide expert repair service for appliances of all makes, models, and ages. We are licensed and insured to give you peace of mind, and we offer convenient appointments on weekdays and weekends. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

When your refrigerator runs smoothly, it quietly keeps your food fresh and your energy bills low. But if neglected, it can lead to spoiled groceries, costly repairs, and early replacement. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we’ve been helping families in East Dover and across Morris County since 1962. Here are our top dos and don’ts for keeping your fridge in top shape.

Do: Set the Right Temperature

Keep your refrigerator set between 37°F and 40°F, and your freezer at 0°F. Temperatures that are too warm can lead to food spoilage, while excessively cold settings waste energy and overwork your appliance.

Don’t: Block the Air Vents

Your fridge needs good airflow to stay evenly cool. Don’t pack food tightly against the back wall or vents. Give items space so the cool air can circulate properly.

Do: Clean the Coils Twice a Year

Dusty condenser coils force your refrigerator to work harder, shortening its lifespan. Use a coil brush or vacuum attachment to clean them every 6 months. You’ll find the coils behind or beneath the unit, depending on the model.

Don’t: Let Door Seals Deteriorate

Worn or dirty door gaskets allow cool air to escape, raising your energy usage and overloading the compressor. Wipe seals down regularly and test them by closing a dollar bill in the door—if it slides out easily, the seal may need replacement.

Do: Keep It Stocked—but Not Stuffed

A moderately full fridge retains cold better than an empty one. But be careful not to overcrowd it. Too much food blocks airflow, which can cause temperature fluctuations and strain your fridge’s motor.

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Leaks

If your refrigerator starts making odd noises, leaking water, or running nonstop, don’t wait it out. Call a licensed technician right away to avoid more serious (and expensive) issues.

When in Doubt, Call the Pros

Regular maintenance can go a long way, but when problems arise, the experts at Morris County Appliance Repair are here to help. We’ve been serving East Dover and the surrounding Morris County communities with licensed, insured appliance repair since 1962. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full part replacement, we’ll get your fridge back to peak performance fast.

Need help with your refrigerator? Contact us today for reliable, local appliance repair services.

If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning your dishes well, it may not be a problem with the appliance. The issue could be how you’re loading it. Changing how you load your machine can make a big difference. Here’s a look at the best loading practices to achieve peak cleaning.

Center Dishes With High Soil Levels

Modern dishwashers generally do a great job of handling a variety of dish shapes and soil levels. That said, it’s still best to load dishes and utensils in a specific pattern so that the dishwasher can function optimally.

If you have exceptionally dirty dishes, placing them close to the middle of the rack is best. This placement especially applies to larger dishes placed on the bottom rack.

The spray arms deliver the strongest spray closest to their centers. The lower spray arm also provides the hottest water since it’s closest to the heating element. Together, these qualities mean there’s better cleaning power closer to the center.

Allow Adequate Spacing

Loading as many dishes as possible into your appliance can be tempting, but doing so is counterproductive. Dishwasher tines are designed to hold dishes with a certain amount of space in between for optimal cleaning.

If you place dishes too close to each other, the water and detergent may not be able to reach every dish equally. Loading fewer dishes may mean more frequent loads, but the dishes you wash will be thoroughly clean.

Angle Dishes Down

Ideally, every dish you load in your dishwasher should be angled downward. For example, you should load plates and bowls on the bottom rack, placing them between dishwasher tines facing slightly down. That way, water and detergent can directly reach the surfaces in contact with food.

Similarly, you should place glasses, cups, and mugs fully upside down on the top rack. You can put small bowls on the top or bottom racks, ensuring they’re well-separated and angled downward.

Load Silverware Handle-Up

The guidelines for loading silverware and utensils are similar to those for other dishes. Handles should be up, and items should be placed so they are separated, not nested next to each other. This positioning allows water and detergent to reach each item effectively.

With these strategic adjustments, you can significantly improve your dishwasher’s performance. If your machine is still underperforming, you can always contact your local appliance repair professional to assess the situation. 

For appliance assistance in Rockaway or the greater Morris County region, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. Our team has over 50 years of experience helping customers get the most out of their household appliances. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service and exceptional appliance expertise. We’re licensed and insured for your peace of mind and do all our work in-house. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

It’s easy to forget about cleaning your dryer vent since you don’t typically interact with it day-to-day. However, regular dryer vent maintenance is critical for home safety and appliance health.

Fire Safety Best Practices

Your dryer vent is the tube or duct that connects the back of your dryer to the exterior of your home. As your dryer works, it blows out warm, moist air through this vent.

While your lint trap catches some of the lint and fibers from your drying laundry, some are also blown through your dryer vent. Over time, fibers accumulate and can pose a dangerous fire hazard if left in place.

Cleaning your dryer vent at least once a year is the best way to avoid this issue. If you have a large family or do a lot of laundry, you may need to clean it more often.

Optimized Dryer Function

The more clogged your dryer vent becomes, the harder your dryer has to work to move air through it. An increased workload means increased strain on your dryer and all its components. In some cases, your dryer may also simply not work as well.

Laundry that doesn’t dry properly is actually one of the top signs of dryer vent issues. Ideally, moisture removed from your clothes and linens during the drying cycle vents to the outside via a clear path through the duct.

If that path is obstructed, the moisture from your laundry may not be able to go anywhere. You can run your dryer for the most extended cycle possible, and it won’t get completely dry.

Regular dryer vent cleaning keeps your whole dryer system in optimal condition. Since your dryer doesn’t have to work harder, individual parts are less likely to wear out, extending the overall lifespan of this essential home appliance. Your dryer will also be able to dry your clothes without extra cycles. A clear vent is the key to a well-functioning dryer.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Better dryer performance isn’t the only benefit of dryer vent cleaning. This key maintenance step also increases your dryer’s energy efficiency. 

A clogged vent causes your dryer to work harder, which means it uses more energy to dry each load. Increased energy usage means increased energy costs, which can make a big dent in your household budget. 

A clear vent, on the other hand, helps your dryer work optimally and use as little power as possible. Your energy bill stays low, and your dryer stays in good condition.

Household Health

If dryer vent obstructions prevent moist air from leaving your dryer, that moisture may also start impacting the overall environment of your dryer and laundry area. Anytime excess moisture is present, mold and mildew growth is more likely.

Mold and mildew spores can cause an unpleasant, musty smell and can lead to or exacerbate numerous health issues, such as:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Other respiratory infections
• Shortness of breath
• Allergies 
• Fatigue
• Headaches

The longer your dryer vent is clogged, the more mold and mildew will grow. Regular vent cleaning is a simple, straightforward way to avoid this unpleasant issue.

DIY or Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning?

While there are ways to clean your dryer vent on your own, professional cleaning is the best choice to achieve complete cleanliness and optimal safety and performance. You can pair vent cleaning with regular dryer service checks to ensure both elements work correctly.

Your local dryer repair or appliance service company will be able to get your vents clean and clear with minimal fuss. With professional tools and expert knowledge, they’ll ensure your dryer vent is in good condition until the next cleaning.

When you need dryer vent cleaning in Morris County or the surrounding region, call Morris County Appliance Repair. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience, and we’re here to ensure your dryer and vent are in the best shape possible. We are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind, and we do all work in-house. Our crew offers exceptional customer service and outstanding appliance care to keep your household running smoothly. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

It is essential to keep children safe around household appliances. Children are curious by nature, so it’s up to parents and caregivers to limit dangers within the home. Here are some key tips to help your kids stay safe around household appliances.

Limit Access to Appliances

One of the most straightforward appliance safety steps is to limit access. If you can, locate appliances behind doors that lock and keep them secured when not in use.

If you can’t limit access with a door, try to place appliances out of reach where possible. If kids can’t access an appliance, it poses much less danger.

Secure Appliances

Larger moveable appliances can tip over if children try to climb or pull on them. Appliances that pose a tip-over risk include:

• Refrigerators
• Washers
• Dryers
• Stoves

Anchoring appliances with wall brackets or straps can reduce this risk. Call your local appliance repair company if you need help anchoring an appliance.

Use Childproofing Tools

In many cases, you can also childproof appliances with purpose-made tools to secure doors and controls. These include:

• Knob covers for stovetop controls
• Slide locks or button straps for refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers
• Heatproof manual door locks for ovens

Some newer appliances also have built-in childproofing features. If you’re in the market for a new machine, you can look for one with integrated safeguards. 

Educate Children in the Household

Teaching children about appliance safety is one of the best ways to avoid danger. It’s never too early to begin modeling safety practices or teaching kids not to touch appliance controls, burners, or doors. 

If children in the household can use appliances, ensure they know how to do so safely. It’s also helpful to teach them what to do in an emergency so that they stay as safe as possible if something goes wrong.

Stay On Top of Appliance Maintenance

Keeping appliances in good condition is essential for safety. A broken appliance is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous.

For example, electrical issues, overheating components, and malfunctioning temperature gauges can pose significant fire hazards. The best way to ensure the safety of your home and family is to call an appliance repair professional when you notice an issue.

If you need help with appliance safety measures or childproofing in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re here to help keep your appliances working correctly, no matter the problem. With over 50 years of combined experience, we provide service for any brand and model of appliance. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!