Hard water can wreak havoc on your home appliances. From dishwashers to washing machines, the minerals in hard water—primarily calcium and magnesium—can build up over time, reducing efficiency and causing premature wear and tear. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to mitigate this damage and extend the life of your appliances. Here’s how hard water affects your household equipment and tips to avoid costly repairs.

How Does Hard Water Affect Your Appliances?

1. Clogs and Build-Up: Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits, also known as scale, in your appliances. This can cause clogs in pipes, filters, and valves, affecting the flow of water and reducing the efficiency of your appliances. Your dishwasher, washing machine, and even your water heater are particularly vulnerable to this type of damage.
2. Reduced Efficiency: The build-up of limescale can force your appliances to work harder. A washing machine with scale build-up, for instance, has to use more energy to heat water and clean your clothes properly. This not only increases energy bills but also shortens the lifespan of the appliance.
3. Poor Performance: Hard water makes detergents and soaps less effective, leading to poor cleaning results. Dishes may come out of the dishwasher with spots, and clothes may feel rough and look dull after being washed. Over time, this can wear out fabrics and diminish the appearance of your dishes and glassware.

Tips to Prevent Hard Water Damage in Your Appliances

1. Use a Water Softener: The best long-term solution to hard water is installing a water softener. Water softeners remove the minerals that cause scale build-up, helping to protect your appliances from clogs and damage. This can save you money on repairs and energy bills in the long run.
2. Clean Your Appliances Regularly: Regular cleaning can help reduce mineral build-up. For dishwashers, run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner every month. Similarly, for washing machines, using a washing machine cleaner or running an empty hot water cycle with vinegar can help flush out mineral deposits.
3. Descale Your Water Heater: Your water heater is particularly vulnerable to hard water damage. To prevent scale build-up, you should have it descaled regularly by a professional or flush it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This can improve efficiency and prolong the life of the heater.
4. Use Hard Water Detergents: There are detergents and soaps formulated to work better with hard water. These products help prevent scale build-up in your dishwasher and washing machine while improving cleaning results.

Conclusion

Hard water can significantly reduce the lifespan and efficiency of your home appliances, but with the right preventative measures, you can protect your investment. Whether it’s installing a water softener or regularly descaling your appliances, these steps will help keep your household running smoothly.

When your washing machine is having issues, it can be hard to know which path to take: spend time and money on repairs, or shell out the funds for a whole new machine. To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at the major pros and cons of each course and some key tips on keeping your washer going as long as possible.

Choosing Washing Machine Repair

Sadly, there’s no easy answer when it comes to the washing machine repair versus replacement debate. In general terms, however, here are some pros and cons of opting for washing machine repair:

Pros

• Cost: a service call plus a repair fee is probably lower than the price of a new washing machine
• Timing: if your machine needs a straightforward repair, an appliance pro can usually have it up and running quickly
• Environmental impact: fixing your machine keeps it in your home rather than in a landfill

Cons

• Difficult diagnosis: complex problems may take time (and money) to find and resolve
• Cost: significant repairs may rack up a hefty price tag
• Convenience: dealing with a broken machine, arranging service calls, and waiting for repairs can take time

Deciding to repair or replace your washer is a personal decision that depends on your budget, the complexity of the problem, and the timeframe of any repairs. If you’re on the fence, ask your appliance repair professional for a recommendation. Based on their assessment of the situation, they should be able to give you their take on whether repairs are worth it or if shopping for a new appliance will be in your best interest.

Opting for Washing Machine Replacement

Buying a new washing machine is no small thing, either physically or financially. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of replacing your washer:

Pros

• Functionality: barring extraordinary circumstances, it’s a good bet that a new washer will work consistently
• Energy efficiency: your energy costs and the environmental impact of using your washer will typically be reduced
• Lower repair costs: you likely won’t have to spend much on repairs for some time

Cons

• Initial cost: you’ll probably spend a bundle up front to buy a new washer
• Logistics: getting rid of your old washer and installing a new one can cause household upheaval and will leave you without access to a washer for at least a short time
• Environmental impact: your old washer will become waste and it will be up to you to see that it’s disposed of in the most environmentally responsible way

Most American households rely on a washing machine to make their home lives run smoothly. If your washer needs constant repairs or doesn’t do its job well, getting a new machine may be your best option.

Extending the Life of a New Washer

When you get a new washing machine, you can keep it working well by following these tips:

Follow Appliance Instructions

While most of us probably don’t read new appliance manuals for fun, it’s advisable to at least took through it to get an idea of the major dos and don’ts for a new washer. These include:

• Using the right kind and amount of detergent
• Not overloading your washer
• Emptying clothing pockets before washing
• Keeping the washer level

Clean Your Washer Regularly

Soap scum and mildew can accumulate in your washer if left unchecked. This can impact how clean your clothes get and can lead to blockages and damage over time.

Inspect, Assess, and Repair

Don’t take your washing machine for granted. Regularly inspect the hoses, in particular, to check for wear, fraying, and other damage. Replace components as needed and nip problems in the bud before they lead to major issues.

When you need help deciding between washing machine repair or replacement in Morris County or the region, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair. With over 50 years of combined experience, we are ready to help you assess your situation and make the choice that’s right for you. Our customer service is second to none and we look forward to helping you however we can. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Your refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in your home, working around the clock to keep your food fresh. Like any hardworking machine, it needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. With just a few simple steps, you can prolong your fridge’s life and avoid costly repairs.

Clean the Coils Regularly

The coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator play a crucial role in cooling. Over time, they can get clogged with dust and debris, which forces your fridge to work harder and can lead to breakdowns. To prevent this, unplug your fridge and use a vacuum or coil brush to clean the coils every six months. This simple task can improve efficiency and extend the life of your appliance.

Replace Filters on Time

If your fridge has a water or air filter, make sure you replace it as recommended by the manufacturer—usually every six months. A clogged water filter can reduce the flow and quality of your water, while a dirty air filter can lead to unpleasant odors and decreased performance. Mark your calendar to ensure these filters are changed on schedule.

Check the Door Seals

Worn or damaged door seals can let cold air escape, making your refrigerator work harder to maintain the right temperature. To check the seals, close the door on a dollar bill and see if you can pull it out easily. If you can, it’s time to replace the seals. This small fix can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Keep It Cool

Your refrigerator’s environment can impact its performance. Ensure it’s positioned away from heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight, and keep the temperature inside between 37°F and 40°F. Overloading your fridge can also cause it to run less efficiently, so give your food some breathing room.

When to Call a Professional

While these maintenance tasks can help keep your refrigerator in good shape, some issues require a professional touch. If you notice unusual noises, inconsistent temperatures, or if your fridge isn’t running as efficiently as it should, it’s time to call in an expert. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we’ve been keeping refrigerators running smoothly since 1962. Our experienced technicians are ready to help with all your appliance repair needs.

If your dishwasher isn’t working properly, don’t despair. There are several causes of dishwasher trouble, and many have an easy fix. Here’s a rundown of some common dishwasher issues, plus when to troubleshoot on your own and when to call an expert to get your dishwasher back on track.

Dishes Not Getting Clean

It’s never fun to start unloading your dishwasher only to find that your dishes still have fingerprints or bits of food on them. Some possible causes of incomplete or inefficient cleaning include:

• Interior grime buildup
• Dirty filter
• Clogged spray arm
• Impeller breakage
• Inlet valve malfunction
• Circulation pump issues

Some of these issues have simple fixes that you can do yourself. Others are best left to the professionals. Read on to learn which path to follow.

DIY Dishwasher Solutions

If your dishes aren’t getting clean, the first step is to ensure that your dishwasher itself is clean. This includes checking the dishwasher interior, the filter, and the spray arm.

Cleaning the Interior

First, look to see if there’s a buildup of grease or minerals inside your dishwasher. If there is, pour three cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and run it through a full cycle. This should help dissolve and wash away most buildup so that existing grime isn’t deposited on your dishes during the cleaning process.

Checking the Filter

A dirty filter can also be addressed with a thorough cleaning. Your dishwasher filter catches large bits of food and other debris. It needs to be cleaned periodically so that it doesn’t become clogged with particles and grease. Check your owner’s manual to find out how to safely remove the filter, then use warm, soapy water to clean it out before you replace it. This will ensure that no accumulated gunk makes its way back into the dishwasher and onto your clean dishes.

Removing the Spray Arm

Your dishwasher’s spray arm is an essential component that shoots water over your dishes to help clean them. If the holes on the spray arm are clogged, the water pressure is decreased and your dishes won’t get properly clean. You can solve this issue by removing the spray arm and using a scrub brush to clean out any debris or mineral deposits clogging the spray arm holes. You can also use a toothpick or an old toothbrush to tackle any stubborn areas that need some more TLC.

When to Call a Professional for Dishwasher Repair

Some dishwasher performance issues are best left to the experts. These include problems with the impeller, inlet valve, or circulation pump. If your dishes aren’t getting clean and you notice strange noises when you run your machine, one of these three may be the culprit.

Impeller Issues

Water is pushed through your dishwasher’s spray arm and drained from the machine via a pump impeller. A broken or obstructed impeller may cause a humming, buzzing, or grinding noise. Fixing an impeller issue should be left to the pros, so call your local appliance repair team if you notice a problem.

Inlet Valve Function

Your dishwasher’s inlet valve lets water into the dishwasher at key points in the wash cycle. If the valve materials have deteriorated, it will cause a high squealing or buzzing noise. It can also sometimes sound like knocking, depending on the severity of the problem. 

If you notice a high-pitched buzzing, squealing, or knocking about two minutes after starting your dishwasher, the inlet valve is a likely cause. Call an appliance professional to take care of it so your dishwasher can do its job.

Circulation Pump Noises

The circulation pump is a key dishwasher part that sprays water throughout the machine to clean your dishes. If there’s a problem with the pump or its bearings, you may hear a high-pitched buzz—and your dishes will come out dirty. Typically, a faulty circulation pump needs to be replaced, so contacting an expert for dishwasher repair is your best bet.

If you need dishwasher repair help in Morris County, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re here to put our 50+ years of experience to work for you so that your dishwasher gets back on track. We do all our work in-house and we offer convenient weekday and weekend appointments. We’re fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Appliances are so common in our day-to-day lives that we don’t always consider safety concerns when using them. Safety should always be considered, though, when using any machine. Here are some key tips to keep your home and family safe when using common household appliances.

Install GFCI Outlets

We all know that appliances should generally be kept away from water due to the risk of electric shock. However, simply separating appliances from water is just the start.

Installing a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet is a must if appliances or outlets are near water or in damp locations. If there’s a power fluctuation caused by water and appliances coming into contact, these outlets will trip the circuit and stop the flow of electricity. This keeps people safe from electric shock and helps protect appliances from being overloaded.

GFCI outlets are often needed in locations prone to water exposure or damp conditions, including:

• Laundry rooms
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Outdoor areas

If you don’t have GFCI outlets, you should consider installing them. This important electrical upgrade can make a huge difference in the safety of your household. 

Avoid Using Extension Cords

Using an extension cord to connect an appliance to an outlet may seem like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, this “no-brainer” is actually a “no-no.”

Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution to power appliances because they:

• Increase the chance of power fluctuations that could damage the appliance
• Increase the number of locations where water could be introduced
• Pose a fire hazard due to the potential for loose connections and sparks
• Can cause wires to overheat and start a fire if the appliance draws more power than the extension cord can handle

Instead of using an extension cord, you may need to move the appliance closer to an appropriate outlet. This small change is key to keeping your home and family safe.

Read the Manual

While appliance user manuals may not be great literature, they have important information about proper usage and appliance troubleshooting. Manuals highlight necessary safety measures and give information on keeping your appliance in good working order.

The user manual will also tell you if your home’s wiring is suitable for the appliance in question. To avoid the risk of fire or appliance damage, it’s essential that your wiring can handle the electrical load of your appliance. If it can’t, you may need to call an electrician to do some upgrades.

The user’s manual will also give you important information about:

• Safe installation and use
• Whether your appliance is suitable for indoor and/or outdoor use
• Best practices to mitigate water exposure

You’ll also get the added benefit of learning about your appliance’s advanced features and any warranties it comes with. Being armed with information upfront will help you prioritize safety and get the most out of your appliance.

Morris County Appliance Repair has been in business since 1962 and we’re proud to serve the appliance repair needs of Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area. Call us today if you have questions about appliance safety, installation, or repairs. We’re licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we offer both emergency service and regular appointments for your convenience. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Choosing appliances for your home is not a one-size-fits-all process. You will likely have your appliances for years, so finding ones that work for your home and your lifestyle is important. Before committing to a new appliance, consider the following elements to make the right choice for your household.

Appliance Size and Shape

First, consider how much space you have. Take measurements and assess what size appliance will fit where you need it to go. This will help you pare down the choices once you start looking and ensure you choose a model suitable for your home’s layout.

Energy Consumption

The cost of a new appliance doesn’t end when you purchase it. There’s still the long-term cost of energy usage to consider. Before you buy, find out how different models compare in terms of energy efficiency.

Lowering your energy usage is better for the environment and your household budget. It might be worth it to buy a more expensive appliance now if it will keep your energy costs down in the long run. 

Brand Reputation and Quality

There are hundreds of different appliance makes and models. Some names may be familiar while others are totally new to you.

As you consider appliance options, note which ones meet your needs. Then, look into the current reputation of each brand—and even specific models. Research online and ask people you know if anyone has experiences or recommendations to share.

Choosing an appliance with a good reputation and track record will likely save you time, hassle, and money. From needing fewer repairs to having a longer lifespan, investing in a quality appliance pays dividends. 

Household Needs

From accessibility considerations to family size, it’s important to look at your household’s needs before you buy new appliances. You want to choose appliances that support your household, not make things harder.

For example, do you have a big family that generates a lot of laundry? Consider getting a washer and dryer that can handle extra large loads. Do you entertain a lot? A large refrigerator might be a great investment.

When shopping for appliances, you’re not just looking at how much each model costs or what size it is. You’re also looking at how it will fit into your life. 

If you’re in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call Morris County Appliance Repair for all your appliance questions. We offer appliance repair and maintenance services and quality appliance parts for all your DIY projects. The Morris County Appliance Repair team is fully licensed and insured and we have 50+ years of combined experience. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

When it’s time to say goodbye to an old appliance, it’s important to make a disposal plan—especially if you’re bringing in a new one to replace it. Due to their size and, in some cases, their makeup, you can’t just put a major home appliance on the curb with the rest of your trash. So, how do you dispose of an appliance you no longer need?

Research Local Appliance Recycling and Disposal

Appliance recycling and disposal avenues vary from location to location, so your first step is to find out what the options are where you live. Your municipal waste management division is a good place to start. They may offer disposal or recycling services, or they may be able to connect you with organizations that do.

If you need other disposal options, you may be able to get help from:

• Utility companies
• Appliance manufacturers
• Junk hauling services
• Appliance repair professionals

The most important thing is: don’t just dump your appliances or take them to a landfill. This can be environmentally hazardous and could result in steep fines. 

Work With Your Appliance Seller

If you’re replacing an old appliance with a new one, the company that sold the new appliance may be able to take the old one off your hands. This is a common practice, so don’t be shy about inquiring!

The company might even take multiple appliances away, even if they aren’t replacing all of them. This varies from company to company, but it never hurts to ask.

Donate to Charity

If your appliance is still in good working condition, donating it to charity is a wonderful way to give it a second life. This keeps it out of the landfill and helps people in need all in one fell swoop.

Many charities will pick up large donations. You can check their website or give them a call to see what their policy is.

Responsible Appliance Removal

When you’re getting rid of an appliance, you may need to do some safety-oriented preparation before it’s taken away. If you’re working with an organization or company, make sure you check with them regarding any pre-transport actions. 

If you’re getting rid of an appliance that contains chemicals, you may need to drain those before the appliance is removed. Most commonly, this will pertain to refrigerators or freezers that contain Freon. If you’re responsible for the Freon removal, you’ll need to contact an EPA-certified technician to do the work since this coolant has to be handled and disposed of according to strict regulations.

Other preparations might include:

• Unplugging and defrosting fridges or freezers
• Securing any doors or lids
• Securing or removing any loose or moving parts  

Most people will have to deal with appliance disposal or recycling at some point in their lives. If you need help with appliance disposal in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’ll be happy to share our knowledge with you and help in any way we can. Morris County Appliance Repair is here for all of your appliance repair and support needs—You Can Count On Us!

In an era where technology continuously shapes our daily routines, the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) into home appliances is revolutionizing the way we interact with our kitchen and laundry room. Morris County Appliance Repair, a trusted name since 1962, delves into this transformative journey, offering insights into the world of smart appliances. From refrigerators that order groceries to washing machines you can control with your smartphone, the future of home management is here.

The Benefits of Smart Appliances

• Enhanced Convenience and Efficiency: Smart appliances offer unprecedented convenience, streamlining household tasks and saving time. Imagine ovens that preheat on your commute home or dishwashers that start remotely to fit your schedule. These intelligent devices not only simplify life but also promote energy efficiency, potentially reducing utility bills through optimized operation times.
• Advanced Features and Connectivity: The connectivity of smart appliances allows for seamless integration into the digital ecosystem of your home. With real-time alerts and remote diagnostics, staying on top of maintenance and troubleshooting has never been easier. Furthermore, these appliances can learn from your habits, offering personalized suggestions to enhance your lifestyle.

Potential Pitfalls of Connected Devices

• Security and Privacy Concerns: As with any device connected to the internet, smart appliances pose potential security risks. Protecting your network and personal information is paramount to prevent unauthorized access and ensure privacy. Regular software updates and robust security protocols are essential in mitigating these risks.
• Dependence on Technology and Network: The reliance on internet connectivity and technology means that a simple network outage could render these smart features unusable. It’s important to consider the balance between traditional functionality and smart capabilities when choosing appliances for your home.

The integration of IoT into home appliances is transforming kitchens and laundry rooms across Morris County and beyond. While the benefits of convenience, efficiency, and personalized experiences are compelling, it’s crucial to navigate the potential pitfalls with awareness and caution. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we embrace the future of appliance technology, offering our expertise in repair services and parts sales to ensure your home remains at the forefront of innovation.

Warranties can be incredibly helpful in terms of saving money and extending the life of your appliance, but they can be tricky to understand. Here’s a breakdown of how warranties typically work—and how you can make them work for you.

Appliance Warranty Options

Most appliances come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty. This type of warranty is typically valid for a set amount of time after purchase and covers the cost of repairing or replacing any defective or malfunctioning parts. 

In many cases, you can choose to purchase additional coverage known as an extended warranty or protection plan. This will increase the length of time your warranty benefits are active and may also include coverage for additional repairs or replacement parts.

In both cases, though, it’s important to read the fine print so that you know exactly what’s covered—and for how long. Every warranty is different, so you should look over the terms as soon as you get them.

Know Your Warranty Coverage

Manufacturer warranties usually only cover costs related to defective materials or workmanship. In short, the manufacturer only cover repairs if they caused the problem. Other appliance repair issues that come up may not be covered. This includes damage from:

• Normal wear and tear
• Accidents
• Misuse
• Incorrect installation
• Unauthorized repairs or modifications

An extended warranty or protection plan may cover some of these issues, such as normal wear or accidents, but that’s not a given. Always double check the scope of your coverage before you report a problem or make any repairs.

Access Warranty Coverage Correctly

Even if you have an issue that’s covered under a manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty, you may still need to follow a certain procedure in order to use your warranty coverage. Again, this will vary from company to company, so make sure you review the steps for your specific appliance and manufacturer.

Typically, the first thing to do is contact the customer service department to report the problem. They’ll provide additional instructions so that you can arrange for service from an authorized provider.

At every step, it’s important to keep a record of what the problem is, who you speak to, and when you speak to them. This documentation will help you keep track of the process and will protect you if there are any issues or disputes about coverage down the line.

If you use email or chat to report a problem, you can often download a record of your communication. If you contact the manufacturer by phone, make sure you get the name of the representative and any case or reference numbers connected to the call.

If you report a covered problem through the correct channel, you should be all set in terms of getting the repairs or replacement parts you need at no additional cost. Just remember to read the fine print and contact the manufacturer before you take action.

The team at Morris County Appliance Repair is here to help with all of your appliance repair needs in Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area—so call us today! We’ll be happy to walk you through the warranty process and we can assist with all your repair needs whether they’re covered under warranty or not. We offer both regular and emergency service and we have weekday and weekend appointments available for your convenience. We’re here to put our 50 years of experience to work for you. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Is it better to try to fix a broken appliance yourself or should you call a professional appliance repair technician? This is one of the eternal questions of the DIY enthusiast, and it’s not always easy to answer. Here are some key points to consider when you’re deciding which route is right for you.

DIY Appliance Repair 

Tackling appliance repairs on your own can be a great option. It’s important to look at the situation carefully before you dive in, though, to make sure DIY is the best choice. Elements to consider include:

• Your level of experience
• Your available tools
• Safety concerns and possible risks

If the repair job in question is relatively simple and you know what to do, DIY might be the way to go. This can save you both time and money since you don’t have to pay—or wait—for a service call.

On the other hand, if you don’t have the experience or tools needed, calling a pro might be the better choice. The same holds true if there’s a major safety concern like working with gas or navigating complicated electrical components. You don’t want to injure yourself or cause additional appliance issues by attempting a DIY repair instead of calling an appliance repair company.

Professional Appliance Repair Service

Bringing in a professional appliance repair technician may not always be necessary, but there are some definite pros to calling in an expert. These include:

• Access to specialty parts and equipment
• Diagnostic expertise
• Knowledge of safety procedures

It’s also important to consider if your appliance is still under warranty. In many cases, a warranty will be void if anyone but a professional performs service or repairs. So, even if you’re able to do a DIY repair, you’ll have to call in the pros to take full advantage of the warranty period.

If you live in Rockaway or the greater Morris County area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair for help with any appliance questions you may have. We’re here to assist with all your appliance repair, service, and maintenance needs. Our team is fully licensed and insured and we have over 50 years of experience working with a wide range of appliance makes and models. If you need emergency service, we’re here for you. We also offer regular appointments with weekday and weekend hours. Our goal is to provide the best customer service and appliance service possible. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!